Wes Allen joined SCD in November 2021 to coordinate tax ditch projects. Having spent over 20 years in the private environmental field, his knowledge of drainage infrastructure is invaluable.

Let’s get to know Wes

Q. What do you enjoy about working at SCD?
A. It feels really great to work with people here, at home, to improve drainage and water quality that benefits the local community. I also really enjoy being able to walk miles and miles of beautiful Sussex County.

Q. What are you doing when you’re not at work?
A. You’ll probably find me outside. I spend as much time as I can chasing waterfowl with my dog and catching crabs. It is very rewarding to train a dog and watch him do what it was designed to do.

Q. Where are you from?
A. Milford, Del.

Q. Tell us about your family.
A. Last year my girlfriend, Kelly, and I built a house in Georgetown where we live with our cat, Dover, and Labrador Retriever, Walker. My father helped to start the softball program at Milford Little League. As a kid, I helped him layout and build the first softball fields. The ballpark is now named in his honor.

Q. What would you buy if you won the lottery?
A. I have several hunting properties in mind.

Q. What’s the most interesting job you’ve had?
A. I’ve had a few, I’ve been an intramural floor hockey referee, seasonal park ranger, and a battlefield tour guide at Gettysburg.

Q. Do you have a favorite sports team?
A. I love sports and played a lot growing up. I’m a huge Eagles fan, I was in Minnesota when the birds won the super bowl.

Q. In a few words, describe yourself.
A. Knowledgeable, thoughtful and reliable.

Q. What’s your favorite food?
A. Probably a nice ribeye, cooked correctly, but a Connecticut-style lobster roll is a close second.

Q. How do you stay active?
A. I walk miles of tax ditches throughout Sussex County and I’ve climbed to the top of every high point in every state east of the Mississippi.

Q. What was the first concert you attended?
A. This is a little embarrassing, the first concert I remember going to was Milli Vanilli and New Kids on the Block. My pop-pop had a box at the Delaware State Fair.

Q. What type of music do you like?
A. I like a little bit of everything, Grateful Dead to Sturgill Simpson, and Biggie to Hank Williams Jr.

Q. What would surprise people to know about you?
A. I’ve wrestled an alligator on tv, its mouth was taped, but it still counts.

Twenty years ago, this month, Bobbi joined SCD. Since then she has meticulously maintained USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service and SCD cost-share records and funding. Always willing to help out, Bobbi is the ag “office mom.” Producers seek her knowledge and expertise with cover crop sign-ups and questions of all kinds.

Let’s get to know Bobbi

Q. What do you enjoy about working at SCD?
A. I enjoy working with a great group of people and helping farmers with various cost-share programs, specifically the cover crop program.

Q. What are you doing when you’re not at work?
A. You’ll find me spending time with family, attending church, exercising and cooking, especially grilling. I also really enjoy going to Lewes Beach.

Q. How do you stay active?
A. I like to go bicycling or walking at Cape Henlopen State Park.

Q. Where are you from?
A. Pittsburgh, PA.

Q. Tell us about your family.
A. My husband and I have one daughter.

Q. What do many people not know about you?
A. I have five siblings, a tattoo of my daughter’s name and I’m a vegetarian.

Q. People would be surprised to know...
A. That I asked my husband to marry me.

Q. Do you have any hobbies?
A. I enjoy watching football and hockey, being from Pittsburgh, my favorite teams are the Steelers and Penguins. My chihuahua, Ben, is named after Big Ben Roethlisberger.

Q. In a few words, describe yourself.
A. Compassionate, organized and dependable.

Q. What have you always wanted to try?
A. Probably learn a foreign language.

Q. What’s the most interesting job you’ve had?
A. I was a junior volunteer at Latrobe Memorial Hospital café when I was 14. Occasionally Fred Rogers, from Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood, would come by after visiting patients and I would take his order.

Q. What’s on your bucket list?
A. To visit an elephant sanctuary.

Q. What did you want to be when growing up?
A. A veterinarian.

For nearly four years Mark has worked with contractors and homeowners to maintain compliance with Delaware’s Sediment and Stormwater program. His even-keeled demeanor, honesty and thoughtfulness are invaluable when working with diverse groups.

Let’s get to know Mark

Q. What do you enjoy about working at SCD?
A. I enjoy being associated with the good-natured group of people that work for the district. I thoroughly enjoy the busy nature of my work and the fact that there is always something to do.
 
Q. What are you doing when you’re not at work?
A. I like to get things done around the house, especially outdoor stuff. I enjoy playing chess and golf, both of which I am poor at.

Q. Where are you from?
A. Anne Arundel County, Maryland

Q. Tell us about your family.
A. My wife enjoys taking classes and volunteering her time for different organizations. My daughter is 33 years old and is a top-notch writer and editor.

Q. What do many people not know about you?
A. I used to be able to jump high enough to reach the basketball rim. My Italian Grandfather sang opera professionally. I am a master at repairing and remodeling the drywall in old houses. I also enjoy keeping up with the latest in scientific discovery, especially in astronomy.

Q. What was the first concert you attended?
A. Chicago. Great concert! I like classical music along with classic pop and rock ‘n roll.

Q. What’s on your bucket list?
A. To visit the Grand Canyon and to see the Rocky Mountains.

Q. What are your top three life highlights?
A. Marrying my wife, my daughter being born, and going back to school at age 45.

Q. In a few words, describe yourself.
A. Diligent, empathetic and resourceful.

Q. Do you have a favorite food?
A. Tacos are my favorite food. I’m not a big fan of fast food and I’ve never tried sushi despite all the seafood restaurants in the area.

Q. What did I do before joining SCD?
A. I was self-employed until going to work for DelDOT in 2009. I worked in the trades until just before turning 50. I was once a telemarketer; after two weeks I became their top seller and two weeks later I was one of their worst.

Five years ago this month, Stephen joined SCD to lead the equipment program, coordinating Resource Conservation and Development projects, overseeing private drainage projects, tax ditch maintenance and restoration work across Kent and Sussex County.

Let’s get to know Stephen

Q. What do you enjoy about working at SCD?
A. I enjoy working with the farmers, landowners and tax ditch managers helping them solve their drainage problems. My favorite types of projects are constructed wetlands and ponds.

Q. What are you doing when you’re not at work?
A. I like going camping. We try to go at least once a month in the warmer months. I really enjoy anything outside skiing, snowboarding, riding four-wheelers, fishing, playing cornhole, but especially hunting. I have been big game hunting out west several times and hope to go again soon.

Q. Where are you from?
A. I was born and raised in West Virginia and moved to Delaware over 10 years ago. My family had a small beef cattle operation when I was growing up and I have always been around and enjoyed agriculture.

Q. Tell us about your family.
A. My wife, Michelle, and I live in Harrington. We have a 6-year-old daughter named Hadleigh, and a Bernadoodle named Hank.

Q. In a few words, describe yourself.
A. Hardworking, dependable and honest.

Q. What do many people not know about you?
A. I was tied for the most home runs in the state my senior year of high school.

Q. What’s your favorite type of music?
A. Oldies Country! My daughter makes me change the channel every time she gets in my truck.

Q. What are your favorite foods?
A. Steak, seafood and pizza.

Q. Do you have a favorite sports team?
A. My alma mater, West Virginia University.

Q. What did I do before joining SCD?
A. After I graduated college I was a division manager for a commercial landscape company in Davidsonville, Md. When I first moved to Delaware I was the operations manager for a center pivot irrigation company.

For nearly nine years, Dan has kept SCDs numbers in order with pinpoint accuracy. When he’s not managing numerous funding sources and balancing the books you’ll likely find him on the green practicing his swing.

Let’s get to know Dan

Q. What do you enjoy about working at SCD?
A. I like working with numbers and managing money.

Q. What are you doing when you’re not at work?
A. I’m usually hanging out with family or golfing. I started golfing when I was 12. I usually play at Heritage Shores and the best score I’ve had anywhere was an 80 on 18 holes.

Q. Where are you from?
A. I’m from Minneapolis, Minn. and I went to school in Wisconsin. I’ve moved a lot in my life, after college I lived in Michigan, moved to Salisbury, Md, met my wife, moved back to Michigan then to Delaware. We’ve moved a few times in Delaware, too.

Q. Tell us about your family.
A. My wife and I have three adult children; two are in college and the oldest has already graduated. We also have a Yorkie named Ruby.

Q. What do you like to do in your spare time?
A. Probably watch golf, in person or on TV. I’ve actually been to three of the four major tournaments, the Masters Tournament, the U.S. Open, and the PGA Championship

Q. In a few words, describe yourself.
A. Punctual, accurate and truthful.

Q. What do many people not know about you?
A. That I can play guitar.

Q. What did you want to be when you grew up?
A. An astronaut, well, actually, I wanted to be a tornado chaser because I saw one growing up.

Q. What did you do before joining SCD?
A. I was a TV meteorologist before going back to school to become a CPA. I’ve always loved weather and numbers but the TV schedule was tough with little kids at home.

Q. What was the first concert you went to?
A. It was probably The Who or Pink Floyd

Q. What are your favorite foods?
A. Pepperoni pizza, subs and chocolate.

Q. Do you have a favorite sports team?
A. I like the Minnesota Vikings and Flyers.

Q. Do you have a favorite motto or personal mantra?
A. The Golden Rule.

Q. What would you do if you won the lottery?
A. I’d like to take a trip to Europe with my wife and watch The Open.

Q. What’s on your bucket list?
A. Play golf at Pebble Beach or fly a plane. I’ve flown in a plane but never actually flown a plane.

For nearly 20 years Jessica has led the Sediment and Stormwater Program. She can be found in the field or in the office providing technical assistance to property owners or working with developers, builders and contractors to resolve problems, always striving to protect property and waterways across Sussex County.

Let’s get to know Jessica

Q. What do you enjoy about working at SCD?
A. My coworkers, they are all super smart and nice. I love the people of Sussex County and think it’s a really beautiful place. Every day is different and I enjoy helping people.

Q. What are you doing when you’re not at work?
A. Probably chauffeuring my boys around for sports or school. We spend a lot of time fixing or improving things around the house.

Q. Tell us about your family.
A. My husband and I have two teenage boys, a black lab and a small flock of chickens.

Q. Do you have any hobbies?
A. I like decorating, antiquing and refinishing furniture. Recently I bought a pie safe at an auction and had quite an adventure trying to load it. My favorite piece is a 150-year-old dresser that I refinished.

Q. Do you have any other hobbies?
A. When I have time I like to garden, read and spend time with family and friends.

Q. What type of music do you like?
A. I listen to all kinds of music and it’s usually really loud.

Q. Do you have a favorite movie?
A. Not really, I like a lot of different types of movies. There are two that I can’t watch anymore because my boys watched them constantly, Herbie Fully Loaded and Finding Nemo.

Q. What did you do before joining SCD?
A. I had a few interesting internships and worked for the Queen Anne’s Conservation District.

Q. What would you do if you won the lottery?
A. I would take care of family and maybe buy a farm.

Q. What’s your favorite food?
A. Definitely pizza, if I get to pick what’s on it I’d get spinach, broccoli and ricotta. I love chocolate too, like, a lot, it’s bad.

Q. What did you want to be when you grew up?
A. An astronaut, because of the movie Space Camp, but I hate flying. I thought I wanted to be a social worker but I like science and being outdoors.

Q. What would be your dream vacation?
A. I’m really a homebody but I’d like to go out west and see the Grand Canyon at some point. We go camping and visit family in West Virginia, I enjoy traveling but I always miss home.

Q. What are your hopes for the industry?
A. I would love to see people focus on creating more natural areas, meadows and pollinator-friendly spaces instead of having green grass.

Jonathan joined SCD five years ago as a compliance inspector, ensuring structural best management practices were used and maintained properly. From there he became a conservation planner and in his current role, he manages the day-to-day program activities. His impeccable work ethic and matter-of-factness to get the job done are invaluable and instrumental in keeping the air seeder program running smoothly.

Let’s get to know Jonathan

Q. What do you enjoy about working at SCD?
A. I enjoy working with farmers to improve their operation.

Q. What are you doing when you’re not at work?
A. I’m probably working on my own farm. I’m a third-generation farmer. About ten years ago I started raising cattle. In 2018 I bought the farm next door and have grown to about 20 to 25 cow and calf pairs a year. It’s mostly Hereford but we have a few Angus. I also have a hay operation.

Q. Do you have any other hobbies?
A. I like to fish and hunt, specifically waterfowl and deer. I’m a third-generation volunteer firefighter with the Ellendale Volunteer Fire Company, I started when I was 15 years old. Also, I recently won reserve champion at the Delaware State Fair in the Hereford cow/calf class.

Q. Tell us about your family.
A. My wife and I have a nearly four-month-old daughter. We have two Labrador’s but they’re really my wife’s dogs.

Q. Where are you from?
A. I was born, raised and still live in Sussex County.

Q. What did you do before joining SCD?
A. I worked on a farm in Milford, it was a cattle feeding and grain facility.

Q. What would you do if you won the lottery?
A. I would pay off stuff but not buy anything extravagant. I would buy more land close to home and farm full-time.

Q. What would be your dream vacation?
A. I don’t really have one, I’m a homebody. My wife and I went on a cruise for our honeymoon; being on a boat for 10 days was my limit, I’m not one to sit around.

Q. What’s your favorite food?
A. I love steak and seafood, especially snow crab legs. In the summer I like to grill steak, our freezer is usually pretty well stocked.

Q. What did you want to be when you grew up?
A. I was going to school to be a paramedic. I was sitting in class daydreaming about farming and I took it as a sign, so I switch my major to production agriculture.

Q. What’s something you’re good at?
A. I think I’m good at dealing with and solving problems.

Q. When are you the happiest?
A. At home on the farm.

Q. In a few words, describe yourself.
A. I’d really just say easy going.

Siobhan joined SCD in November 2019 to raise awareness about all of the ways SCD can help Sussex County landowners and residents achieve their conservation goals or become better stewards of their land.

Let’s get to know Siobhan

Q. What do you enjoy about working at SCD?
A. Every day is different and I get to share all the great things the district and our cooperators are doing. I actually never knew what a conservation district was before I started.

Q. What are you doing when you’re not at work?
A. Taming toddler tantrums, working in the yard, cleaning or making something.

Q. Do you have any other hobbies?
A. I knit, crochet, cross-stitch, and sometimes sew. My husband and I also like to make stuff, usually out of reclaimed wood or metal.

Q. Tell us about your family.
A. My husband and I have a daughter who will be three in October and I have a teenage stepson. We also have a herd of ridiculous rescues, including two pit bulls, Lacy and Marilyn, and four cats, Hazel, Fancy, Tater, and Maggie. We used to foster kittens too.

Q. Where are you from?
A. I was born and raised in Sussex County. I lived in Los Angeles and the Bay Area of California for a few years and moved back to the eastern shore almost ten years ago. My husband and I live in Laurel now.

Q. What did you do before joining SCD?
A. I spent many years working with animals. I worked and volunteered at an animal shelter and was a dog groomer for over five years.

Q. In a few words, describe yourself.
A. Particular, quirky, goofy, resourceful, crafty and caring.

Q. What’s your favorite movie?
A. Growing up it was probably The Cat from Outer Space. I don’t really watch movies but my husband does.

Q. What’s your favorite food?
A. Pho, it’s a Vietnamese soup. I also love the pupusas from Doña Maria's Pupuseria in Seaford.

Q. What type of music do you like?
A. If it’s catchy I like it and I’m a big Taylor Swift fan.

Q. What’s on your bucket list?
A. To get our El Camino running one day. Other things have taken priority so it’s in pieces in the garage.

Q. What’s one thing you can’t live without?
A. Coffee! I’d say my phone but I can’t function without coffee.

Q. What do many people not know about you?
A. Probably how to say my name but it’s actually pretty simple, Sha-vonne. Also, I used to be a manicured motorhead. I still have over 300 nail polishes and can work on cars. I used to be a BMW Car Club of America member and participated in car control clinics and autocrosses in my E36 M3. I’ve also been around the Nürburgring Ring with Sabine Schmitz piloting a Ferrari 360 Modena.

For over five years, Holly has been the go-to for numerous district activities. She wears many hats,  including human resources and payroll while managing bid packages, board meetings and community transportation funds. Holly is the best dressed, detail-oriented, force to be reckoned with who is behind the scenes keeping everything moving.

Let’s get to know Holly

Q. What do you enjoy about working at SCD?
A. It’s always something different, I have my hands in all sorts of different things which keeps it interesting.

Q. When you’re not at work, what are you doing?
A. If it’s nice out I’m at the beach or out in my yard working. We recently turned our backyard into a tropical oasis. I also love spending time with my family and grandkids.

Q. Do you have any other hobbies?
A. My husband and I love to travel. We usually go to Jamaica twice a year, we’ve gone three times in one year before. I really love the atmosphere and people there, it’s very laid back.

Q. Tell us about your family.
A. I have an enormous family! I have an amazing husband, Andy, two daughters and a step-daughter. Between Andy and I, we will have 10 grandkids, the 10th one is due this month.

Q. What are you good at?
A. I’m can throw a good party and balance a checkbook down to the penny!

Q. What would you do if you won the lottery?
A. I’d probably pay off my house and buy an oceanfront condo in Ocean City, Md. I’d buy my girls a house and take care of family. I’d like to travel too, maybe I’ll finally go to Aruba; I’m definitely not going anywhere cold. I would probably build a rollercoaster with lots of drops in my backyard because I’m an adrenaline junkie.

Q. What three words would you use to describe yourself?
A. Thoughtful, giving, and fun.

Q. What’s an ability you wish you had?
A. I’d love to be invisible. I’d be a fly on the wall. I’d go to the White House; I’d want to know what’s going on.

Q. Do you have a favorite movie?
A. I have two, P.S. I Love You and Tombstone.

Q. What type of music do you like?
A. I love all kinds of music, but country is my favorite, and it’s usually loud. I love going to concerts too, I recently saw Eric Church and caught two guitar picks which are still in my jewelry box. I’ll never forget the first concert I went to, I saw Loretta Lynn and I got to shake her hand.

Q. What did you do before joining SCD?
A. I owned and managed a construction company; before that, I spent many years managing a mortgage company.

Q. People would be surprised to know…
A. I really like history and enjoy going to the museums in Washington D.C. I like old churches too and tour as many as possible. I also like historical-based shows, like Reign on Netflix.

For nearly 13 years, Dan has helped producers achieve their conservation goals, providing technical assistance for SCD and USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service programs. From soil tests to nutrient management plans, he’s the in-house tech guru and can navigate the complex systems and maps with ease.

Let’s get to know Dan

Q. What do you enjoy about working at SCD?
A. I enjoy helping farmers help the land.

Q. What do you when you’re not at work?
A. I like spending time with my family or playing video, card or board games. I usually play World of Warcraft, Magic: the Gathering or Risk.

Q. Tell us about your family.
A. My wife and I have two boys who are five and two, and two dogs.

Q. Where are you from?
A. I’m from and still live in Gumboro, DE.

Q. What did you want to be when you grew up?
A. First it was a baseball player then it transitioned into a game warden. I grew up working on a farm and knew I wanted to help the farming community but I wasn’t interested in being a farmer.

Q. What four words describe you?
A. Calm, honest, rational and patient.

Q. What would you do if you won the lottery?
A. I’d pay off my debts and my wife would want to travel. I’d make sure ten percent would go to our church and then help our families out. I might work at a gaming store just because I think it would be fun.

Q. What’s your favorite food?
A. Pizza! Cheese is my go-to but I like the ham pizza from Delmar Pizza.

Q. If you could have a superpower, what would it be?
A. Maybe the ability to fly or have super strength. I like Vegeta’s powers and abilities from Dragon Ball Z but I don’t think many people know what that is.

Q. What was the last vacation you went on?
A. I think it was to Busch Gardens, it was a birthday surprise for my wife. We tried to go on a cruise but that was canceled when everything shut down from the coronavirus.

Q. If you could meet anyone famous, who would it be?
A. Probably Ryan Reynolds, he seems pretty fun to hang out with and can make fun of himself.

Q. What was the last movie you watched?
A. Probably Rock Dog but I prefer action or comedy to kids movies.

Q. Do you have a favorite sport?
A. I don’t really watch sports but I liked playing sports. In high school, I ran cross country and played baseball. I played church softball but I popped my hamstring and now I can’t run like I used to.

Since 2013, Matt has helped the residents of Sussex County resolve private drainage concerns. From pipe replacement and sinkhole repair to catch basin installation, he is hands on throughout the process, ensuring solutions are implemented to protect and preserve natural resources.

Let’s get to know Matt

Q. What do you enjoy about working at SCD?
A. I enjoy working outside, the people and the schedule.

Q. What do you like to do for fun?
A. I play a lot of golf, usually at Mulligan's Point or Plantation Lakes but there are a lot of great courses in Sussex County. I play in a men's league every Wednesday too.

Q. Do you have any other hobbies?
A. I like to travel and fish. My family lives in New England and when we visit them I’ll go smallmouth bass fishing at Lake Winnipesaukee.

Q. Tell us about your family.
A. At home it’s my wife and me. I have an older sister and several nieces and nephews. We spend a lot of time with my wife’s family boating and fishing.

Q. Where are you from?
A. I was born and raised in Dover.

Q. Do you have a favorite sport?
A. I love baseball. I was a pitcher in high school and college. I like going to spring training and visiting different ballparks; I’ve been to Wrigley Field and Fenway Park. The Philadelphia Phillies are my favorite team and I’d love to take a year off and travel with them so I can visit every ballpark.

Q. Where do you like to travel to?
A. My wife and I like to visit New Orleans, we always go to Sunday brunch at Commander’s Palace and Napoleon House where I get a muffuletta sandwich. We also visit Key West because my wife prefers warmer weather.

Q. What are you good at?
A. I do the majority of the cooking at home and my wife bakes. I just got an Ooni pizza grill and am excited to start using it.

Q. Do you have a favorite restaurant?
A. We like the Cultured Pearl and Michy’s Relaxed Dining in Rehoboth.

Q. What three words would you use to describe yourself?
A. Laidback, thorough and approachable.

Q. What would you do if you won the lottery?
A. I would retire and travel a lot. Maybe buy a golf course or work at one for fun just to play golf for free.

Q. What did you want to be when you grew up?
A. I considered being a science teacher but I like being outside too much. I thought about going to culinary school but after working in a restaurant for a year I realized it wasn’t for me.

Q. What food do you wish had zero calories?
A. Butter!

Jennifer is currently the second longest-serving employee, joining SCD over 28 years ago. Although her role has evolved, she remains cool as a cucumber and quiet as a mouse, keeping the stormwater program rolling, tracking plans as they scurry to and fro.

Let’s get to know Jennifer

Q. What do you enjoy about working at SCD?
A. The atmosphere and the people. It’s a good work atmosphere, very laid back, it’s the reason I’ve stayed. I actually started at the agriculture office and worked with Janet Griffith for a bit before my current position opened.

Q. What are you good at?
A. I like cooking, my father was a chef. I mostly like to try new recipes but everyone asks for my mac and cheese and macaroni salad. I’d like to start baking more though.

Q. Tell us about your family.
A. I’m the youngest of five siblings. I have an adult son and a Boston Terrier named Kobe.

Q. Where are you from?
A. I was born in Miami, Fla. but my family moved to Delaware when I was little.

Q. What do many people not know about you?
A. I don’t eat hamburgers; I’ve never had a Big Mac or a Whopper. High school was probably the last time I actually ate a hamburger. I also used to get in trouble at school for talking too much.

Q. What’s your favorite memory?
A. One of my favorite memories growing up was the family road trip we took out west, visiting major sightseeing spots along the way. My favorite spot was the Gateway Arch.

Q. When are you the happiest?
A. When I’m with family, especially my extended family. My mom had 11 siblings and my father had 8 siblings so I have a big family.

Q. What three words would you use to describe yourself?
A. Quiet, kind and thoughtful.

Q. What’s your favorite food?
A. I love seafood but crabs and shrimp are my favorite. Blue crabs are good, but snow crabs are easier to eat.

Q. What’s on your bucket list?
A. I’d like to travel and visit each state. I’ve been to a few, my favorite so far is Florida.

Q. If you could meet anyone famous, who would it be?
A. Either Kobe Bryant or Nelson Mandela, I’d like to hear them tell their story.

Q. Where would you go on a dream vacation?
A. Maybe Hawaii, but probably Australia because it looks interesting. I watch travel channel and it looks like a nice place to visit. Except for the giant spiders; I’m very afraid of spiders.

Q. Would you rather be a tiny elephant or giant hamster?
A. A tiny elephant. I love elephants and just started collecting small figurines.

For just over two years, John has checked and double-checked stormwater management plans for compliance with Delaware’s regulations. He has gained a reputation as a stickler for perfection; however, he just wants to make sure designs work on paper before they are implemented on the ground.

He’s a detail-oriented, hard-working, family man who is always willing to help out.

Let’s get to know John

Q. What do you enjoy about working at SCD?
A. There’s a lot to like. From the top down, everyone is a team and that alleviates a lot of stress.

Q. What do you like to do for fun?
A. I’m at an age where I like to relax and spend time with my family. My daughter is a thrill seeker and loves rollercoasters as much as I do, so we visit a lot of theme parks. Apollo’s Chariot is probably my favorite rollercoaster.

Q. Tell us about your family.
A. There’s my wonderful wife, Jennifer, beautiful teenage daughter, Rachel and a spoiled Beagle name Lacy.

Q. Where are you from?
A. I am from and still live in Laurel, DE.

Q. Have you lived anywhere else?
A. I’ve lived in Mississippi, Virginia, North Carolina and California

Q. What three words describe you?
A. I think people would say I’m judgmental, rigid and unapproachable. I pray to be humble and think I’m laid back but I also overthink things constantly. So, content, steadfast and determined.

Q. What is something many people may not know about you?
A. When I was a little kid, my parents had to keep me on a leash and harness when we were out because I would run off everywhere.

Q. Do you have any hobbies?
A. I do a little woodworking and home improvement projects. For the past six years, I’ve helped out at the Cemetery House in Laurel, De.

Q. What did you want to be when you grew up?
A. I wanted to be a fighter pilot and still do but my vision won’t let me. I may have to grow old but I don’t have to grow up.

Q. What did you do before joining SCD?
A. I designed stormwater facilities for eight years, I actually designed the system at Delmar Middle and High School. Before that, I served in the Navy for six years, four active and two reserve. I was stationed at Miramar, CA, aka Fightertown, USA and worked on the flight deck with F-14 Tomcats. Aboard the ship, I served in Hawaii, Singapore, the Philippines and the Persian Gulf.

Q. If you could be any animal, what would you be?
A. A Wolverine

Rob Mitchell has worked with big toys for over 15 years. He previously led the equipment program, but now he splits his time between SCD and other endeavors. He’s a family man with a big heart who is always willing to help someone in need.

Let’s get to know Rob

Q. What do you enjoy about working at SCD?
A. I like the work, the people I work with and the people I’ve met along the way.

Q. What are your favorite projects to work on?
A. I really enjoy working on agriculture projects like reclaiming land for natural habitat. One project that stands out was the restoration of the Lightship Overfalls; it had sunk and was stuck in the mud. We dug it out, watching it pop up out of the water was neat.

Q. What do you like to do for fun?
A. When we get a chance, we like traveling, usually to the Pacific Northwest. My favorite place to visit so far has been Homer Spit, Alaska. I did a lot of fishing when I was there; I like fishing somewhere I’ve never been before.

Q. Tell us about your family.
A. I’m married and have three adult children, one son and two bonus daughters. We also have two English Mastiffs, they’re really my wife’s dogs because they go crazy when she comes home.

Q. Where are you from?
A. I am from and still live in Laurel, DE but that’s why I like to travel.

Q. What’s your favorite food?
A. Steak, or any seafood; I love seafood.

Q. What’s one food you wish had zero calories?
A. Moose Tracks ice cream.

Q. What three words describe you?
A. Loyal, faithful and trustworthy.

Q. What is something many people may not know about you?
A. I raise grass-fed beef, mostly Angus, and I’m a hay farmer too. I do a lot of custom hay work; I cut, rake and bale or just bale hay for farmers. It keeps me busy.

Q. Have you ever met anyone famous?
A. I met Donald Trump a few years ago, before he was President. I was at Madison Square Garden with a church group, he sat down in front of us. He was very cordial and friendly.

Q. Do you have any hobbies?
A. I’m a sound tech on the side. It all started when I was a teenager and someone at church volunteered me to do it. I mostly do it for our church, but I was one of the techs for WBOCs Easter Special.

They say time flies when you’re having fun.

For the past 30 years, Debbie has helped the district grow by securing funding and creating new opportunities. Debbie finds creative avenues to expand conservation efforts, getting conservation on the ground where it matters most.

Let’s get to know Debbie

Q. What do you enjoy about working at SCD?
A. I truly love my job, the people I work with, the farmers and helping the environment.

Q. Can you tell me about your family?
A. I have an adult son who is getting married soon so I’m gaining a daughter-in-law. At home there’s my partner, Brooks, and our cockapoo, Scarlett, who runs the household.

Q. What do you like to do for fun?
A. I like to be healthy and stay fit; we really enjoy hiking. We prefer the mountains over the beaches. Locally we like hiking and biking the Junction & Breakwater Trail at Cape Henlopen State Park.

Q. What’s on your bucket list?
A. Our bucket list is to go to all of the national parks. We’ve been to several including Grand Canyon, Great Falls, Hawai‘i Volcanoes, Saguaro and Shenandoah. My favorite so far has been Yosemite National Park.

Q. Where are you from?
A. I was born and raised in Seaford, DE. I think I’ve lived within a four-mile radius my whole life.

Q. Are you messy or organized?
A. Oh, definitely messy. I can usually find most things but it may take me a few minutes.

Q. What are some of your favorite foods?
A. I love pizza, pasta, cake and cookies. I have a sweet tooth, but I don’t indulge often because I’m watching my carbs. However, Vanderwende’s has a new ginger snap ice cream, it’s amazing.

Q. What was the last concert you went to?
A. Last year we saw Elton John at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn, NY.

Q. What three words describe you?
A. Passionate, loyal and optimistic.

Q. What is something many people may not know about you?
A. I actually wanted a push mower for our yard so I had another way to fit in some exercise.

With over 15 years of experience at SCD, Jim Elliott has a wealth of knowledge that allows him to think outside the box and troubleshoot complex drainage concerns.

Jim currently designs and facilitates solutions for the Resource Conservation and Development list, moving projects in Sussex County from concept to construction.

Voted second best dressed and an office potluck favorite, Jim is as cool as a cucumber and is always willing to lend a helping hand.

Let’s get to know Jim

Q. What do you enjoy about working at SCD?
A. I like the people, they’re all very nice and I like the environment too.

Q. Where are you from?
A. I am born and raised in Laurel, De.

Q. Can you tell us about your family?
A. I’m married to a wonderful woman and have a teenage daughter who is starting her first year at college. We also have a Labradoodle Malamute mix named Luna.

Q. What three words describe you?
A. Easy-going, conscientious and dependable.

Q. What would you do if you won the lottery?
A. Let’s see, I’d pay off my house and car. Actually, I’d probably sell my house and move out to the country but stay in Sussex County.

Q. What is something many people may not know about you?
A. In high school, I was co-captain of the football team, lettered in a few sports and I ran intermediate hurdles in track.

Q. What did you do before joining SCD?
A. In a previous life, before I ventured down the stormwater path, I worked with my father who owned an HVAC business; we were partners.

Q. Do you have a nickname?
A. Growing up everyone called me “Skeeter.”

Q. Do you have any hobbies?
A. I bought a kayak last year, but I haven’t used it yet this year. Does cutting the grass, walking the dog and going grocery shopping count as hobbies?

Q. What’s your favorite food?
A. I cook dinner every night. I’m not a chef but I can read a recipe and follow directions really well. I like to make BBQ ribs in the crockpot, they come out pretty good and cleanup is easy.

Q. Do you have a hidden talent?
A. Um, I’m not bad at drawing. I surprise myself sometimes when I help my daughter with school projects.

Q. What was the last concert you went to?
A. I saw Bret Eldredge in 2018 and Darius Rucker in 2017, both at the Delaware State Fair.

Since 2017, Kim Elliott has juggled everything from residential permitting, inspection reporting, accounts payable, and accounts receivable. She is the first point of contact for the Shortly Rd. office and maintains order amongst the chaos, always with a smile.

Let’s get to know Kim

Q. What do you enjoy about working at SCD?
A. The people I work with, we have a really great team. I also really like working with customers.

Q. Can you tell me about your family?
A. I have a wonderful husband, an adult son, and two teenage daughters. We have three dogs, two Chesadore’s named Remmy and Hunter; the newest rescue is a Beagle named Charlie. There are also some rabbits and chickens that roam the yard.

Q. What do you like to do for fun?
A. My family and I like to go camping. We tent camped until last year when we got a pop up. I love Chincoteague but my favorite place so far is Frontier Town. I prefer camping in cooler weather though.

Q. How would you become famous?
A. Helping people, community service is near and dear to my heart. It feels so much better to give than to receive. I really try to instill that in my daughters. I am the leader of the Clover Knights 4H Club which recently won the 2020 Governors Youth Service Volunteer Award for our Harrison House project last Christmas.

Q. If you could meet anyone famous, who would it be?
A. Cal Ripken, Jr.! I’m a huge Baltimore Orioles fan, I was at the game where he tied Lou Gehrig’s record. I don’t know what I’d ask him, but I’d love to meet him. I really admire his foundation and the work he does with youth.

Q. Where are you from?
A. I’m a transplant, I live in Georgetown but I’m originally from Berlin, MD.

Q. What’s your favorite food?
A. Chocolate! I have a serious chocolate addiction. I really love Mr. Goodbar and Whatchamacallit Bars.

Q. What is something many people may not know about you?
A. I love singing karaoke! I enjoy trying any song but not in public. I have my own karaoke machine at home.

Craig Mills has exceptional attention to detail and a passion to make things right. For over 12 years he has worked with contractors and homeowners to maintain compliance with Delaware’s Sediment and Stormwater Program.

He knows the contractor’s plans, inside and out, often catching errors before they have disastrous consequences. He has the memory of an elephant which is invaluable when some projects can take a decade or more to complete. He makes sure the job is done right and is always willing to help out.

Let’s get to know Craig

Q. What do you enjoy about working at SCD?
A. The people I work with, they really make it easy. The team has taught me everything I know.

Q. Can you tell me about your family?
A. I have a big family, three brothers, a sister, nieces and nephews. My wife and I have been married for 30 years and we have two adult children.

Q. What do you like to do for fun?
A. My wife likes to ride bikes so she makes me exercise. We go up to Wilmington and ride trails for 15 miles or so. I’m not a fan but she loves it, so we do it.

Q. If you could travel anywhere, where would you go?
A. My wife wants to visit the Grand Canyon but after being a truck driver I want to fly there, not drive. I’d want to visit Australia; my son went there when he was 12 years old.

Q. What would you be famous for?
A. When I was younger I was a pretty good checker player. I even won a few tournaments including a regional competition four years in a row. I went to nationals two of those years; I placed sixth one year and second another.

Q. Where are you from?
A. I was born and raised in Milford, DE.

Q. What’s your favorite food?
A. That’s hard, my wife’s a good cook. She has an Instant Pot and makes everything in it but I love chili.

Q. What three words would you use to describe yourself?
A. Hardworking, dependable and trustworthy.

Q. When are you the happiest?
A. When the family’s around eating dinner, that’s good for me.