Austin farmer Mike Merten was appointed to fill the vacant position on the Cedar River Watershed District board of managers.

“He’s been an effective leader on numerous local boards,” Commissioner Tony Bennett said. “I think he has the unique perspective that he lives in the city limits but also farms.”

CRWD Administrator Bev Nordby said Mertern’s input has been excellent at board meetings.

“Mike has attended the Cedar River board meetings for the last four months, so Mike knows what the watershed is working on,” she said.

Merten was appointed in a 4-1 vote. The county’s personnel committee had a split recommendation, with Bennett recommending Merten and Commissioner Mike Ankeny — the lone no vote — recommending Dan Franklin. While six people applied, only Merten and Franklin were interviewed.

“It’s something that I would take seriously,” Merten said.

“I’ll admit that there’s a lot to learn,” he added. “But I do believe that my communications skills and problem solving ability would be an asset to the Cedar River Watershed board.”

As a board member, Merten will provide input about the CRWD’s rules, budgeting and will vote on any projects the CRWD plans.

Nordby said the district managers are important, especially as the district is working on its 10-year plan.

“Board member leadership is extremely important,” he said.