T-R PHOTO BY SOREN M. PETERSON Tama County’s new director of conservation Curtis Behrens pictured on Wednesday, Nov. 1, at Otter Creek Lake and Park Nature Center. Behrens — previously with Jones County Conservation and of no relation to Tama County Sanitarian Chris Behrens — began in his new role with the county this past Monday.

TOLEDO – Iowa State graduate and former Jones County Conservation natural resource manager Curtis Behrens has been hired as the new director of Tama County Conservation.

The announcement was made during the November meeting of the Tama County Board of Conservation which took place last week Wednesday, Nov. 1 at Otter Creek Lake & Park Nature Center.

Behrens takes over for former director Stephen Mayne of Chelsea. Mayne’s tenure, which began in March of 2021, is currently being investigated by both the Iowa Division of Criminal Investigation and the Iowa Auditor of State’s office, according to board chair John Keenan.

Since Mayne’s departure, the board has been in search of its fourth director in as many years. Prior to Mayne’s appointment, Logan Roberts held the position since 2019. Roberts herself was hired following longtime director Bob Etzel’s retirement.

Beginning in early October, a four-member team composed of Keenan, Tama County HR Administrator Tammy Wise, Tama County Auditor Laura Kopsa, and Conservation board member Jim Allen led the interview process.

Behrens — no relation to Tama County Sanitarian Chris Behrens — began in the new role this past Monday, Nov. 6. He most recently worked for Jones County Conservation as a natural resource manager. Prior to Jones County, he was the Director of Parks and Recreation for the City of Sumner.