Conservation Technical Assistance Initiative (CTAI)

Technical Assistance:  Offers conservation planning and engineering expertise to help landowners manage and protect natural resources.

Federal Funding Bridge:  Helps Michigan residents qualify for federal cost-share dollars from the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) for implementing on-farm conservation.

Partnership:  Operates as a collaboration between the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD), federal agencies, and local conservation districts.

Common Practices:  Supports projects such as nutrient management, pest management, prescribed grazing, irrigation water management, and tree/shrub establishment.

Risk Reduction: Specifically aims to reduce environmental risks on farms, such as erosion and runoff, through Michigan Agriculture Environmental Assurance Program (MAEAP) standards.

Gina is our Iron Baraga Conservation District CTAI and is based at the Baraga USDA Office with NRCS and FSA. 

You can find her at:  16403 Ojibwa Industrial Park Road, Baraga, MI 49908.

Office:  (906) 353-8225     Cell (906) 231-9046

Email:   ctaiIronBaragaCD@gmail.com

Gina serves  Iron, Baraga, Houghton, Keweenaw, Ontonagon, Gogebic, and Dickinson Counties. 

Gina M. Jarvi joined the Iron Baraga Conservation District team in 2023 and has proven to be a valuable addition. She has a strong background in natural resource management, complemented by significant field experience. 

Gina earned her degree in Wildlife Ecology and Management from Michigan Technological University and has held various roles that integrate hands-on fieldwork with essential administrative tasks.

As an Endangered Species Technician with the Yurok Tribe, Gina conducted crucial surveys for the Northern Spotted Owl and the Marbled Murrelet. She developed habitat assessments and managed field data, which equips her to effectively support the people she serves and assist them in implementing conservation practices.

In addition to her fieldwork, Gina possesses strong skills in program development, grant writing, and community outreach. As the Program Director at Gratiot Lake Conservancy, she oversaw communications and led projects, including invasive species removal and nature-based programs for local youth. Her ability to build strong relationships with both the public and professionals has strengthened the district's outreach initiatives.

With her unique combination of skills and experience, Gina is making a positive impact on our conservation mission in the Upper Peninsula, and we are excited to have her on board!