If you reach out to Geauga SWCD for advice on managing your property’s resources or for guidance on minimizing sediment and erosion from your construction site or farm, there’s a good chance you will meet the smiling faces of Mike Tadaj and Spence Nash. Both of these gentlemen are relatively new technicians with Geauga Soil and Water Conservation District and have hit the ground running (in muck boots!) with enthusiasm, diligence, knowledge, and zeal.
Mike Tadaj is a Geauga County native who grew up in a large family in Chesterland and attended West Geauga Schools. Beginning as an intern with the District in May 2018, Mike began working as a permanent, part time employee in September 2018 until becoming full time in October 2019. Through it all, Mike is also working toward a Construction Management degree through Kent State University.
As a Geauga SWCD Technician, Mike conducts construction site inspections, post construction stormwater basin inspections, handles the Agricultural Pollution Abatement program, and monitors conservation easements. With a love of helping others and dedication to community and country, Mike also serves in the Ohio Army National Guard, is an Eagle Scout, and a volunteer for his church. His background experience includes various types of work as a laborer, and he enjoys traveling and running. We are proud of Mike, fortunate to have him as a valued staff member, and thank him for his service.
Geauga SWCD’s newest staff member, Spencer Nash, was hired just prior to the onset of the COVID-19 outbreak and orders. “Spence” as he prefers to be called, started March 2, 2020 as the Conservation Technician for the District. Eighteen days later, he was working remotely from home – offering technical assistance, resources, and strategic site visits with creative consultations and thorough results. With innovation and insight, Spence seems to smile as he bounds over any hurdles that might stand in his path.
As Geauga SWCD’s Conservation Technician, Spence conducts construction site inspections, provides technical assistance, and assists with other aspects of the MS4 NPDES Phase 2 Program in Geauga County. He grew up in Geauga County and received a Bachelor of Arts from Bowling Green State University in Environmental Policy and Analysis with a specialization in sustainable management.
His background experience includes small business management (with environmentally conscious efforts), watershed-based projects, stormwater management, and public outreach. As a natural fit for the position, Spence loves problem-solving and working with people. Coming aboard in such unusually challenging times, we are impressed by his fortitude and grateful for his flexibility.
Regardless of your natural resource needs, know that your call to the District will be answered by friendly, knowledgeable, and helpful staff. Please help us welcome Geauga SWCD’s newest technicians, Mike Tadaj and Spence Nash. Hats off (yet masks on!) to them both.
