Research Conservation and Development (RC&D) Councils were originally established with the Agricultural Act of 1962 as part of a partnership with the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS). After many changes through the years, today RC&D Councils are non-profit organizations that work to preserve natural resources, better the community, and form connections with local government, school boards and other civic entities. The Mid-Snake RC&D Council was formed in 1993 and covers a primary service area of Twin Falls, Jerome, Cassia, and Minidoka counties.
Today, our mission is to help develop the economy of the region and improve the well-being of citizens while protecting the environment and conserving the unique resources of the area.
Our council is composed of individuals with a wide range of talents, professions, and expertise, who volunteer their time to help benefit the community.
From left to right: Charles Howell of Jerome County, Vice Chairman; Heidi Tubbs of Snake River SWCD, Chairwoman; Rachelle Osterhout of West Cassia SWCD, Treasurer; Doreen McMurray of East Cassia SWCD, Secretary.
Board of Directors and Administrator
Heidi Tubbs is the co-owner of Tubbs Berry Farm. Along with being a business owner and the Chairwoman of Mid-Snake RC&D, Heidi also serves on the Twin Falls District School Board, the Snake River Soil and Water Conservation District and the Twin Falls County Pest Abatement Board. There’s nothing Heidi can’t do! While she doesn’t have very much free time, she loves spending time with her family when she does.
Charles Howell has a long-standing history of serving his community. While living in Jerome he has served on many boards including the Jerome County Fair Board and is currently a County Commissioner. Charles comes with a lifetime of experience and always has important insight into current issues within our community. In his spare time Charles loves to ride horses, team rope, visit his grand and great grandchildren, and spend time with his family.
Doreen McMurray has served as Secretary on the Mid-Snake RC&D Council since December 2022. Doreen represents the Soil & Water Conservation Districts in Cassia County where she has worked for over 32 years promoting conservation efforts and education. She places a high priority on improving conservation and the natural resources in our local communities. Her hobbies include gardening, sewing, grandchildren, and road trips with her husband Kerry.
Nikki Nelson has been the Mid-Snake RC&D Administrator since May 2024. She has lived in Twin Falls since 2018 and didn’t waste any time getting involved. Nikki started the Magic Valley Kid Market in 2019, a youth rodeo association in 2021, and jumped into many other meetings and boards. In her spare time Nikki loves riding horses, competing in rodeos, camping, baking, canning, and dancing with her children in the living room.