District Leadership
The Putnam County Soil & Water Conservation District is governed by a five-member Board of Directors appointed by the Putnam County Legislature in accordance with New York State Soil and Water Conservation Districts Law.
The Board is composed of two members of the Putnam County Legislature, one representative of the County Farm Bureau, one representative of the County Grange, and one at-large member representing the public. This structure ensures that agricultural, governmental, and community interests are represented in the District’s leadership.
Board Chairman
Cassandra A. Roth
Farm Bureau Representative
The Chairman serves as the presiding officer of the Board of Directors and provides leadership in carrying out the District’s mission and responsibilities. The Chairman works with fellow Board members, staff, partner organizations, and the public to help guide District priorities, oversee governance and administration, and ensure the effective operation of District programs and activities. The Chairman also serves as the primary representative and spokesperson for the District.
Vice Chair & Treasurer
Member at Large
The Vice Chair supports the leadership of the District and assists the Chairman in carrying out the responsibilities of the Board. In the Chairman’s absence, the Vice Chairman serves as the Board’s presiding officer and helps ensure the continued operation of District programs, initiatives, and governance activities.
The Treasurer helps oversee the District’s financial stewardship by working with the Board to review budgets, financial reports, and expenditures. The Treasurer supports transparency, accountability, and the responsible management of public funds in support of the District’s conservation mission.
Board Member
Grange Representative
As the Grange Representative, the Board Member brings the perspective of the agricultural community to the District and serves as a liaison between the Grange and the Board. The Grange Representative helps guide District policies, programs, and conservation initiatives while ensuring that the interests of agriculture, natural resources, and local conservation remain represented in the District’s governance.
Board Member
District 7 Legislator
Two members of the five-person governing board are elected officials of the Putnam County Legislature.
Board Member
District 4 Legislator
Two members of the five-person governing board are elected officials of the Putnam County Legislature.
Conservation District Technician
The Conservation District Technician serves as the operational arm of the Putnam County Soil & Water Conservation District, carrying out the priorities established by the Board of Directors through technical expertise, conservation planning, and public service. Staff conduct site visits, provide technical assistance to landowners and municipalities, prepare agricultural assessment and soil group worksheets, collect soil and water samples, administer conservation programs and grants, coordinate outreach and education, and collaborate with local, state, and federal partners to protect, restore, and enhance Putnam County’s natural resources.