Richland Soil & Water

Conservation Creation Arts & Crafts Workshop: Solar Eclipse Suncatcher
2024-01-09 18:00 - 20:00 (America/New_York) | The Longview Center, 1495 W LONGVIEW AVE SUITE 205, MANSFIELD, Ohio, 44906
Join Richland Soil and Water Conservation District for our first Conservation Creation Arts & Crafts Workshop for 2024. You will create a beautiful suncatcher to brighten your day.

John McClintock will provide a program about solar eclipses and their potential impact on flora, fauna and wildlife. John is an amateur astronomer who has chased some eclipses and even caught a few!

Workshop supplies and eclipse glasses will be provided. Registration requested by January 5.

When you register for this workshop you are agreeing to receive information from Richland Soil and Water Conservation District (Richland SWCD) like the quarterly e-newsletter. Richland SWCD reserves the right to take photos during the Conservation Creation Arts & Crafts workshop for promotional purposes. Photography becomes the property of Richland SWCD.

Continental Divide Selfie Contest
2024-01-17 00:00 - 2024-04-03 23:59 | The Longview Center, 1495 W Longview Avenue, Mansfield, Ohio, 44906, United States
While driving around Richland County, have you noticed new green and white signs that state “Continental Divide” and has our logo at the top? The signs are part of an initiative to create more awareness of the Continental Divide and watersheds in Richland County. In the spirit of continuing to foster partnerships, the Muskingum Watershed Conservancy District (MWCD) gave us a grant to have road signs printed showing when you enter and leave the Lake Erie and Ohio River Watersheds. Richland County Engineer Adam Gove and his staff placed the signs at designated spots along the Divide line.

To have some fun with the signs and increase awareness about the Divide and Richland County watersheds, we created a contest. All you need to do is take a selfie with your smartphone at a sign, post it to social media noting the sign location and #richlandcontinentaldivide. Don’t have a smart phone? No problem! Reach us at Contact@richlandswcd.net.

What’s a contest without a prize?! If you follow the guidelines above, you’ll receive a free pair of eclipse glasses so you are prepared for the Total Solar Eclipse slated for April 8. One entry per person. Glasses are available while supplies last and may be picked up at our office.

Visit Drive the Continental Divide web page for hints to help with the contest and to learn more about Richland County watersheds and the Continental Divide.

Office Closed for Staff Development
2024-01-23 12:00, 2024-01-24 12:00

Invasive Species on Land and Water to Know and How to Control
2024-01-25 17:30 - 19:30 | The Longview Center, 1495 W Longview Avenue, Mansfield, Ohio, 44906, United States
Beat the cold of winter with thoughts of spring warmth and learning about invasive plants! Join Richland Soil and Water Conservation District and our guest speakers for this workshop on invasive species that are found in bodies of water and on land. Snacks will be provided.

Learn about aquatic invasive plants in backyard ponds and natural areas in Ohio from Mark Warman. Several water weed species are on the move and threaten our recreation, ecosystem, and economic interests. Identification, notes from the field, and response strategies are discussed. Notable and rare aquatic plant discoveries in Ohio from the past 5 years will conclude his presentation.

What is a weed and what makes a weed an INVASIVE weed? Janell Baran will teach you how to identify and understand several of Ohio’s most common plant invasives and then explore alternative — and sometimes unexpected — ways to combat them without the use of herbicides.

About the speakers:

Mark’s job with the Cleveland Metroparks involves working on an aquatic invasive plant Early Detection and Rapid Response project in Ohio’s Lake Erie Basin. His responsibilities are to survey macrophytes, assist with management strategies, and coordinate partners to protect Ohio’s water resources. Funding comes from the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) and the United States Fish and Wildlife Service via the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative Program.

Janell Baran is the owner and operator of Blue Owl Garden Emporium herb farm and Blue Owl Hollow forest farm. After spending 20 years in the computer industry, a series of events inspired her to leave that life and become a farmer full-time in 2006. She now lives a busy, dirty, physically exhausting, but very satisfying life on an old mid-1800s farmstead nestled in the hills and hollows of central Ohio.

When you register for Invasive Species on Land and Water to Know and How to Control you are agreeing to receive information from Richland Soil and Water Conservation District (Richland SWCD) like the quarterly e-newsletter. Richland SWCD reserves the right to take photos during the Invasive Species on Land and Water to Know and How to Control for promotional purposes. Photography becomes the property of Richland SWCD.

Richland County Zoning/Township Officials Meeting
2024-02-01 17:30 - 19:30
Richland County Zoning and Township officials are invited to join Richland Soil and Water Conservation District to get an overview of the stormwater permitting process in the unincorporated areas of Richland County, Village of Lexington, and MS4 Townships. This meeting is for zoning and township officials and not open to the public. Registration is requested by January 26 by emailing MS4@richlandswcd.net. Watch the calendar for a future event for developers, general contractors, and the public.

Children's Story Time
2024-02-13 10:30 - 11:30 | Madison Branch of MRCPL, 1395 Grace St., Mansfield, Ohio, 44905
Just in time for Valentine’s Day, join Richland Soil and Water Conservation District at the Madison Branch of the Richland County Public Library to read The Giving Tree by Shel Silverstein and learn why trees are important to us through this heart-warming story. We will also make a tree-themed Valentine’s Card.

Board Supervisor Meeting
2024-02-14 08:00, 2024-03-12 09:00 | Longview Center, 1495 W. Longview Avenue, Mansfield, OH, 44906, United States
Board Supervisor meetings are open to the public and held in the Richland SWCD Conference Room 258. Please contact Erica Thomas, Director, before the meeting if you wish to attend.

Children's Story Time
2024-02-14 10:30 - 11:30
Join us Valentine’s Day at the Bellville Branch of the Richland County Public Library to read The Giving Tree by Shel Silverstein and learn why trees are important to us through this heart-warming story. We will also make a tree-themed Valentine’s Card.

Children's Story Time
2024-02-15 10:30 - 11:30 | Lucas Branch of the MRCPL, 34 W. Main Street, Lucas, Ohio, 44843
For Valentine Week, join Richland Soil and Water Conservation District at the Lucas Branch of the Richland County Public Library to read The Giving Tree by Shel Silverstein and learn why trees are important to us through this heart-warming story. We will also make a tree-themed Valentine’s Card.

Precipitation Monitor Volunteer Training
2024-02-27 14:00 - 15:00 | The Longview Center, 1495 W Longview Avenue, Mansfield, Ohio, 44906, United States
Join the Richland Soil and Water Conservation District’s award-winning volunteer team by becoming a Precipitation Monitor. Volunteers record rain and the liquid equivalent of snow on the Richland Soil and Water Conservation District website. Equipment provided. Volunteers must have access to the internet. Register, if possible.

When you register for volunteer training and orientation you agree to receive information from Richland Soil and Water Conservation District (Richland SWCD) like the quarterly e-newsletter. Richland SWCD reserves the right to take photos for promotional purposes. Photography becomes the property of Richland SWCD.

Pond Clinic
2024-03-13 17:30 - 19:30 | Headwaters Outdoor Education Center, 151 Home Road, Mt. Gilead, OH, 43338, United States
Get ready for pond season by attending the Pond Clinic hosted by Morrow and Richland Soil and Water Conservation Districts at Headwaters Education Center, 151 Home Road, Mount Gilead. The Clinic is for new and established pond owners.

Steve Fender of Fender’s Fish Hatchery is the guest speaker. Topics covered include pond management, aquatic vegetation control, fish stocking, fish management, aeration systems, plus much more.

We will also have information available about our upcoming fingerling fish sale. Orders are due by April 11 and pick up is April 19 from 10:00 to 11:30 a.m. at the Richland County Fairgrounds Horse Barn.

The pond clinic is free and open to the public. Light refreshments will be available. Registration is not necessary, but helpful for planning purposes.

When you register for the Pond Clinic you agree to receive information from Richland Soil and Water Conservation District (Richland SWCD) like the quarterly e-newsletter. Richland SWCD reserves the right to take photos for promotional purposes. Photography becomes the property of Richland SWCD.

Raising Richland Community Garden Summit
2024-03-14 17:00 - 20:00
Join us and a host of vendors, exhibitors, and partners for this fun and educational evening about topics related to gardening at Kingwood Center Gardens. Adult and children programs available.

Photos may be taken at our table for promotional purposes. Photography becomes the property of Richland SWCD.

Special Board Supervisor Meeting
2024-04-02 13:00 | Longview Center, 1495 W. Longview Avenue, Mansfield, OH, 44906, United States
The Board of Supervisors will hold a special meeting in the Richland SWCD Conference Room 258 to discuss succession planning. Contact Erica Thomas, Director, before the meeting if you wish to attend.

Office and County Offices Closed for Solar Eclipse
2024-04-08 00:00 - 23:59 | Longview Center, 1495 W. Longview Avenue, Mansfield, OH, 44906, United States

Pond Fish Sale Order Deadline
2024-04-11 08:00 - 16:00
Orders for our pond fish sale are due April 11. Choose from Bluegill, Yellow Perch, Largemouth Bass, Fathead Minnows, Channel Catfish, Hybrid Bluegill, Redear Bluegill, and White Amurs. Click on this link to order fish, pond conditioner, Optimal Fish Food, plastic bags and twist ties.

Pick up is at the Richland County Fairgrounds Horse Barn April 19 from 10:00 to 11:30 a.m. Please bring enough containers to hold the purchased fish. Five-gallon buckets work well. Each container must have an unscented poly liner (30 gallon trash bag). The bags are necessary to hold oxygen to keep the fish alive during transport. Do not use a lid; use a twist tie or twine to close the bag. Fill the container one-third full with pond water the fish will be put in. General rule of thumb: one container per 100 small fish, one container per 1,000 minnows, one container per 4-5 amurs. Please help with loading and unloading your container in and out of your vehicle. This will help expedite the delivery process.

Conservation Creation Arts & Crafts Workshop: Horray for Herbs! (Re-Scheduled Date)
2024-04-11 18:00 - 20:00 | Longview Center, 1495 W. Longview Avenue, Mansfield, OH, 44906, United States
This workshop was originally scheduled for April 2, but due to the weather forecast and concern for safety, we re-scheduled it.

Are you ready for spring?! In this workshop, we’re going to nudge the season along by planting a trio of oregano, chives and parsley seeds. Our guest speaker, Christine Libby from Alta Florist & Greenhouse, has many years of personal and professional experience growing and using herbs. All workshop materials are provided. Registration requested by April 10.

When you register for this workshop you are agreeing to receive information from Richland Soil and Water Conservation District (Richland SWCD) like the quarterly e-newsletter. Richland SWCD reserves the right to take photos during the Conservation Creation Arts & Crafts workshop for promotional purposes. Photography becomes the property of Richland SWCD.

Board Supervisor Meeting
2024-04-17 09:00 | Longview Center, 1495 W. Longview Avenue, Mansfield, OH, 44906, United States
Board Supervisor meetings are open to the public and held in the Richland SWCD Conference Room 258 . Please contact Erica Thomas, Director, before the meeting if you wish to attend.

Pond Fish Sale Pick Up
2024-04-19 10:00 - 11:30 | Richland County Fairgrounds, 750 N. Home Rd., Mansfield, OH, 44906, United States
Pick Up at Richland County Fairgrounds Horse Barn.

Only pre-ordered and pre-paid orders received by April 17 will be filled. Please arrive for pick up between 10:00 and 11:30 a.m.

Please bring enough containers to hold the purchased fish. Five-gallon buckets work well. General rule of thumb: one container per 100 small fish, one container per 1,000 minnows, one container per 4-5 amurs.

Each container must have an unscented poly liner (30 gallon trash bag). The bags are necessary to hold oxygen to keep the fish alive during transport. Do not use a lid; use a twist tie or twine to close the bag.

Fill the container one-third full with pond water the fish will be put in. Please help with loading and unloading your container in and out of your vehicle. This will help expedite the delivery process.

District Director Application Deadline
2024-04-19 16:00 | Longview Center, 1495 W. Longview Avenue, Mansfield, OH, 44906, United States
We are seeking an individual to lead our customer-focused team in a fast-paced office environment for the District Director position. Job and application details may be found here.

Rain Barrel and Rain Garden Workshop
2024-04-30 18:00 | Mansfield Richland County Public Library, 43 W. Third Street, MANSFIELD, Ohio, 44903
If you are interested in pollinators, gardens, conservation, or nature: look no further! Join Richland Soil and Water Conservation District in partnership with the Mansfield/Richland County Public Library to learn more about rain barrels, rain gardens, their benefits and how they are beneficial. Information on how to purchase a rain barrel through Richland Soil and Water Conservation District will be available. The workshop is free and open to the public. Learn more about rain gardens and rain barrels at https://richlandswcd.net/residential/programs/

Native Plant Workshop and Sale
2024-05-08 17:30 - 19:30 | Longview Center, 1495 W. Longview Avenue, Mansfield, OH, 44906, United States
Learn more about Richland Soil and Water Conservation District’s commitment to native plants and enjoy a program on Ohio Tall Grass Prairies by Guy Denny, Ohio Department of Natural Resources retired Chief of Natural Prairies and Preserves Division. He has authored the books, Peatlands of Ohio and the Southern Great Lakes Region and The Prairie Peninsula. His talk is titled “Ohio Tall Grass Prairies.”

Purchase native plants from Natives in Harmony after Guy’s program. The Native Yard Project will also be available. The workshop is free, but we ask you to register by May 6 for seating.

When you register for this workshop you are agreeing to receive information from Richland Soil and Water Conservation District (Richland SWCD) like the quarterly e-newsletter. Richland SWCD reserves the right to take photos during the Conservation Creation Arts & Crafts workshop for promotional purposes. Photography becomes the property of Richland SWCD.

Board Supervisor Meeting
2024-05-15 09:00 | Longview Center, 1495 W. Longview Avenue, Mansfield, OH, 44906, United States
Board Supervisor meetings are open to the public and held in the Richland SWCD Conference Room 258. Please contact Matt Christian, Director, before the meeting if you wish to attend.

Field Day for Plain Growers
2024-06-14 09:00 - 14:00
Join Richland Soil and Water Conservation District and our partners for this special workshop for anyone interested in pasture and grazing management. Those new to livestock and forage management are encouraged to join. Lunch and a grazing stick are provided.

Please note the location has changed to 5 E Main Street, Shiloh, OH 44878.

Registration is requested by June 11 and the cost is $10.00 per person.

When you register for the Field Day you agree to receive information from Richland Soil and Water Conservation District (Richland SWCD) like the quarterly e-newsletter. Richland SWCD reserves the right to take photos for promotional purposes. Photography becomes the property of Richland SWCD.

Field Day for Plain Growers
2024-06-14 09:00 - 14:00
Join Richland Soil and Water Conservation District and our partners for this special workshop for anyone interested in pasture and grazing management. Those new to livestock and forage management are encouraged to join. Lunch and a grazing stick are provided.

Please note the location has changed to 5 East Main Street, Shiloh.

When you register for the Field Day you agree to receive information from Richland Soil and Water Conservation District (Richland SWCD) like the quarterly e-newsletter. Richland SWCD reserves the right to take photos for promotional purposes. Photography becomes the property of Richland SWCD.

Cancelled - Women for the Land Learning Circle
2024-06-15 09:00 - 14:00 | Shady Lane Alpaca Farm, 3073 Gass Road, MANSFIELD, Ohio, 44904
Join Richland Soil and Water Conservation District and our partners for this special workshop for anyone interested in pasture and grazing management. Those new to livestock and forage management are encouraged to join. Lunch and a grazing stick are provided.

Registration is requested by June 11 and the cost is $10.00 per person.

When you register for the Field Day you agree to receive information from Richland Soil and Water Conservation District (Richland SWCD) like the quarterly e-newsletter. Richland SWCD reserves the right to take photos for promotional purposes. Photography becomes the property of Richland SWCD.

Special Board Supervisor Meeting
2024-06-25 08:00 - 08:30 | Longview Center, 1495 W. Longview Avenue, Mansfield, OH, 44906, United States
This special board meeting is for general purposes, open to the public, and held in the Richland SWCD Conference Room 258. Prior to the meeting, please contact Matt Christian, Director, if you wish to attend.

Family Fun on the Farm Festival
2024-06-29 12:00 - 16:00 | 4050 Bromfield Road, Lucas, OH 44843, 4050 Bromfield Road, Lucas, Ohio, 44843, United States
Join us, Malabar Farm State Park and a host of partners for this family-friendly, outdoor festival. This free annual festival is open to the public and has many hands-on kids activities focused on natural resources and where food comes from. Try your hand at archery, take a wagon ride, or plant a seedling, plus more. Learn more at https://www.facebook.com/events/861689491623501.

Richland Soil and Water Conservation District (Richland SWCD) reserves the right to take photos during Family Fun on the Farm Festival for promotional purposes. Photography becomes the property of Richland SWCD.

MWCD Cover Crop Cost Share Applications Due
2024-07-09 09:00 - 16:00 | Longview Center, 1495 W. Longview Avenue, Mansfield, OH, 44906, United States
Richland Soil and Water Conservation District (Richland SWCD) is partnering with the Muskingum Watershed Conservancy District (MWCD) on the cost share program for producers who plant cover crops.

In 2023, the MWCD cover crop cost share program assisted in getting cover crops planted on 140.73 acres of Richland County farmland. The benefits of planting cover crops include preventing and reducing erosion, improving soil health, increased crop productivity, and farm profitability.

Applications are due by July 9, 2024.

Items of Importance:

The 2024 MWCD Cover Crop program cost share is $12.00 per acre.

The general cap is 200 acres per participant unless cover crops are planted in the Charles Mill or Pleasant Hill Lake watersheds.

The 200-acre cap applies across multiple counties if the landowner is signing up in multiple counties.

This program cannot be enrolled in another program to receive funding for the same cover crop such as the United States Department of Agriculture-Natural Resources Conservation Service (USDA-NRCS) Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP) or H2Ohio.

There are no exceptions to the United States Department of Agriculture-Natural Resources Conservation Service (USDA-NRCS) seedling dates and rates. If a mix is going to be planted, the earliest seeding date of the species within the mix is the date that it must be planted by such as radishes.

Wheat is allowed and can be harvested.

2024 Cover Crop Application

MWCD Assessment Area

To get more information contact Matt Wallace by phone at 419.747.8687 or email.
