Washington County Tour (S&WCD) (Bangor: live in, auction, bus)

[BrokenTap]

I had an excellent chance yesterday to see Washington County from a unique perspective. The soil and water conservation district had their annual meeting their and they did a 150 mile bus tour of that county. I will say, I was very impressed and know the great folks of Washington County are in some really good hands and the rest of the conservation districts have a lot to learn.

We learned a lot at the Pleasant River Fish Hatchery, then saw some EQUIP projects regarding irrigation of blueberries and rock removals in those areas. Since my county (waldo) has blueberry growers as well, it was interesting to see how I can help the growers here with the knowledge gained from that wonderful county. The personal guide by the name of Darren from the Wyeth Farm as we traversed their farm was especially informative, but so was the talks by the biologists, the Bangor Hydro spokesman and later we saw all the arch culverts that are being utilized to help maintain salmon spawning.

For those that do not know...these are special culverts that have natural bottoms, allow fish passage and even have resting pools under the road surfaces that ensure salmon will thrive for the next few human generations! We all learned a lot on how to implement these designs in our own counties.

So yes, what a great tour and for all you people who live in Washington County, congratulations on having some good people that are dedicated to boosting your economy and ensuring your water and soil resources are protected. I know I was encouraged and have made some good contacts in that area who will help improve waldo county just as your county has been improved. That is afterall the best part...to forward what you have done and apply it to the rest of the state.

Again, very impressive...and I hope you are really proud of your county...I know I was very proud for you!

[Maine Writer]

They do a great job. Nate's heart is deeply into this. He's also the facilitator of WaCo Food Alliance. Sharon designed the state's fantastic agriculture license plate and works hard at MAITCA. Heidi was a huge help to me when I applied for my conservation grant. She and Dave came to the farm to work with me one-on-one. Then there's the chairman of the board. I'm rather biased - he's my husband. He couldn't be there for the tour yesterday. BT, were you at the meetings and auction Wednesday?

[Maine Writer]

DH just got home. He said he appreciates your compliments.