Growing up in Florida, Josh Borton recognized the importance of the environment from an early age. After moving to Minnesota a little over a decade ago, he has enjoyed seeing what the state has to offer.  Josh believes the Vermillion River is an important resource for the community and has an interest in helping preserve natural resources. This is even more important to him now as a new father.  Josh wants his son to be able to enjoy the outdoors here in Dakota County and the Vermillion River Watershed.

Josh knew of the VRWJPO and the planning commission vacancy from his work with the Southern Dakota County Sportsman’s Club (SDCSC). He and other SDCSC members worked together to plan and host a project funded by a VRWJPO stewardship grant. He has also worked with the MN Department of Natural Resources (DNR) on other projects in Dakota County. As a sportsman, Josh feels an obligation to be a good steward of our land and water and be active in conservation efforts.

Josh says that since joining the WPC, the most interesting thing he’s learned is the factors that play a role in the sustainability of our water; ranging from the effects of temperature changes, to – ground and surface water contamination. Josh has been surprised by the scope of projects being implemented in the watershed and is encouraged by the impact these practices are having. He has enjoyed the learning process and looks forward to continuing to become a more informed and involved resident of the watershed.

Josh is Program Manager for Questar Assessment Inc., a K-12 educational assessment solutions company based in Apple Valley, where he works with internal teams and state partners to provide meaningful assessments.  In his spare time, Josh is the Treasurer of the SDCSC and belongs to the Dakota County Gun Club. Josh enjoys fishing and spending time at the cabin whenever possible and is a huge sports fan. Josh and his wife, Ashley, have a four-year-old son, Zachary.

Josh was appointed to a three-year term in July 2017. The Watershed Planning Commission meets monthly to recommend actions to the Vermillion River Watershed Joint Powers Board and guides implementation of the watershed management plan. Follow the WPC meeting agendas and minutes.