The Texas State Soil and Water Conservation Board (TSSWCB) held a board meeting on Thursday, May 15, 2025. During the meeting, action was taken to elect a Chairman and Vice-Chairman of the board.
Scott Buckles of Stratford was elected as Chairman of the TSSWCB. He has represented Area I on the board since 2011. Buckles also serves as Chairman of the Sherman County Soil and Water Conservation District, where he has been an active member since 1992.
As managing partner of Buckles Farms, he works alongside his family to produce corn, grain, sorghum, wheat, and stocker cattle. The family farm has been in operation since 1917. Buckles is also co-owner and operator of a crop and aerial spraying service. In his spare time, he builds and operates a 1/8th scale railroad and enjoys spending time in Red River, New Mexico. Scott and his wife Dana have three children: Carson, Haley, and Hunter.
“It is an honor to serve as Chairman of the Texas State Soil and Water Conservation Board,” said Buckles. “Our board is committed to supporting the conservation efforts of local districts and landowners across Texas. I look forward to continuing our important work to protect and preserve the state’s natural resources.”
José Dodier Jr. of Zapata was elected as Vice-Chairman of the TSSWCB. He has served on the board since 2005, representing Area III. Dodier has long been a champion for conservation in South Texas, where he has deep roots in ranching and land stewardship.
In addition to his role on the state board, Dodier is a respected leader in his local conservation district and has actively worked to advance land and water conservation initiatives. He and his family manage ranching operations in Zapata County, emphasizing wildlife habitat and range management.
Joining Buckles and Dodier on the TSSWCB are Tina Y. Buford of Harlingen, Joe Freeman of Llano, Barry Mahler of Iowa Park, and David Basinger of Deport.
Established by the Texas Legislature in 1939, the TSSWCB is governed by seven board members, all of whom are actively involved in agriculture or silviculture. Five board members are elected by a delegation of their local peers, and two members are appointed by the Governor of Texas.
TSSWCB works in conjunction with local Soil and Water Conservation Districts (SWCDs) across Texas to encourage the wise and productive use of natural resources. The agency is the lead entity for planning, implementing, and managing conservation programs that address agricultural and silvicultural nonpoint sources of water pollution. Additionally, TSSWCB oversees the operation and maintenance of over 2,000 flood control dams across the state, helping to protect lives and property.