A Buena Vista County conservation seat is opening up at the start of next year, and county officials are now taking applications from residents interested in shaping the future of local parks, natural areas and outdoor recreation.
The vacancy comes as longtime board vice chair Rick Meyer of Alta prepares to step down after more than 35 years of service.
The five‑member conservation board oversees more than 1,200 acres of parks, wildlife areas, historic sites, trails and public access points across Buena Vista County. Its responsibilities range from land acquisition and long‑range planning to environmental education, water quality protection and maintaining county‑managed amenities such as campgrounds, boat ramps and trail connections. Board members also set policy, approve budgets, adopt regulations and supervise the county’s conservation director.
The county says it’s looking for applicants with a demonstrated interest in conservation, outdoor recreation or natural resource issues. Members serve five‑year terms, are appointed by the Buena Vista County Board of Supervisors and meet monthly. The position is unpaid, though members may be reimbursed for official expenses.
The conservation board operates as an independent county entity under Chapter 350 of the Iowa Code, giving it authority to acquire land, enter contracts, set fees and develop coordinated plans for parks and conservation areas. Officials say strong candidates should be prepared to participate actively in meetings, weigh public input, understand the board’s legal responsibilities and work collaboratively with staff and fellow members on both short‑ and long‑term goals.
Applications and a full duty description are available at the conservation board office near Peterson, the Buena Vista County Auditor’s Office, or online through the county’s job openings page at buenavistacounty.iowa.gov. Completed forms can be returned by mail to the conservation office or emailed to office@bvcountyparks.com.
The deadline to apply is 4 p.m. Friday, Oct. 9. The selected applicant will begin serving Jan. 1, 2027.
