Meet the Staff HSWCD Executive Director Betty Jo Tompkins joined the staff in November 2015, following service as Chairman of the Conservation District’s Board of Supervisors. She had followed her husband, Chris Tompkins, and son, Christopher Tompkins, on the Board and as Chairman. A Florida Gator in public relations, agriculture and sociology, her career has included serving as Executive Director of both the Greater Brandon Chamber and Farm Bureau, as well as work in government representation as a lobbyist. Betty Jo’s commitment to agriculture stretches back decades. She’s involved in numerous agricultural, civic and youth organizations, including member and past president of the Hillsborough and Florida 4-H Foundations, president and Board member of the Hillsborough County Fair and past District Governor of Rotary International. She is the President of the Florida Conservation Districts Employees Association and was named by the National Association of Conservation Districts to its Southeast Hall of Fame. “I feel blessed to work with a committed Board of Supervisors who shares my belief that Conservation Is Everybody’s Business” states Tompkins. Hillsborough Soil and Water Outreach Technician Stephanie Collins is the newest member of the HSWCD department. As an award-winning agricultural journalist, Stephanie brings a broad knowledge of agriculture from row crops to youth programs. Her position focuses on educating not only adults, but also youth about conservation through contests, events, and other methods.
Hillsborough Soil and Water Conservation Plant Auction Team takes a break at the annual County Fair event. The 2021 Auction will be Sunday afternoon, October 3rd at the Fairgrounds during the Hillsborough County Fair, 215 Sydney Washer Road in Dover. Tampa Bay Times | Sunday, April 18, 2021 |
5CC