Soil and Water Conservation District

SWCD staff members are available to assist landowners with programs available through partner organizations.

Sara Steelman - District Secretary

Sara Steelman began working for the Coffee County Soil & Water Conservation District in August of 1997, as the Soil Conservation Technician. At that time, she emphasized youth environmental education through classroom environmental education programs, 4-H Wildlife Judging teams and the Envirothon contests. She also assisted the District Conservationist with both state and federal programs.

When Ms. Jeanette Gilliam, District Secretary, retired, Sara transferred to her vacant position and has served as the Secretary/Administrative Assistant since 2014. Sara and her husband, Bruce live on the family farm in Moore County, where they raise beef cattle. Their family consists of son Charles, his wife, Kayla and sons Thomas and Noah, and son Paul, and his fiancé Jessica.

Nina Hanson - District Soil Technician (education and outreach, NRCS support)

I moved to Manchester from Rutherford County in May of 2022, and was hired by the Coffee County Conservation District in January of 2023. I have a background in small scale production including flowers and specialty crops, high tunnel operations, and small livestock (sheep and chickens) care.

Coffee County has been good to me, and my family and we’ve enjoyed getting to know the community, its’ producers, and its’ beautiful landscape. My time at CCSWCD is spent within schools, at various conservation events and programs, and working with our local farmers. I am passionate about connecting community with it’s local agriculture and I love getting folks (especially young people) in touch with nature and growing!