O’Brien County Conservation Board met in regular session on Monday October 9 at Mill Creek Lodge. Acting Director Mark Wilson provided the board with an update on Mill Creek Park projects: a new patio has been poured near the snack shack and 2 new tables are on order. There are also a few donated tables that will be secured. New trees have been planted in accordance with a grant application and half the spending refunded. Two South O’Brien classes, including the FFA class came to help with the planting, mulching, staking and watering. Students from Unity Christian came on another day to volunteer with park projects. The roof on the rental shed has been replaced. This is for the grant project for historic preservation of the octagonal building near the Mill Creek beach. The county ARPA committee has not made a decision about the sewer (hook up to Paullina sewer) project.
Discussions are continuing over the boundaries at Douma Park, but nothing to report.
OCCB approved the appointment of a permanent director. Mark Wilson was appointed and accepted the position effective October 1, 2023 at an annual salary of $67,000 per year.
The job description of a park ranger was reviewed by the board. OCCB approved posting the job description as it with a salary range of $41,000 to $51,500 DOE/DOQ. Wilson doesn’t expect to hire before the first of the year.
The cleaning contract needs to be filled. The contract pays $450 per month and requires 20-25 hours per month with specific duties. OCCB approved the contract to be posted to fill the contract and/or solicit bids.
The annual youth pheasant hunt is scheduled for Saturday October 21 at Crosbie Youth Area. The hunt is conducted by OÕBrien County Sportsmen’s Club and Mark’s Pump Sales and Service of Sutherland. The hunt is open to youth ages 12-15 years. Preregistration is required and is open until Friday October 20 or until all seats are full.
A special meeting was set for Tuesday October 17 at 7:30am at Mill Creek Lodge.

This story has been updated to correct the sponsorship of the Youth Pheasant Hunt.