Mary Burts
Richland Soil and Water Conservation District Commissioner
 

Tell us about yourself.

I began my career path as a child. My father was a soil scientist for the conservation districts throughout lower South Carolina. My earliest memories were weekends hiking the woods and fields or boating on all the major rivers of SC learning about soil, water, the flora and fauna in these regions. In 1970, I was a participant in Columbia’s first Earth Day. Years of scouts, 4-H and various Environmental clubs led me to a master’s degree at Appalachian State in a pilot program for teaching science through the environment and hands-on learning. I have been the District Teacher of the year twice and on the second opportunity that also led me to State Conservation Teacher of the Year 2008, I was asked to be an Associate Commissioner. As a teacher, I led Farm City, Environmental Science Clubs, 4-H and additional scouting programs. I was a participant in Palmetto’s Finest Teacher program which utilized some of the first Project Learning Tree curriculums.  I won the SCISA Teacher of the Year with my program entitles Romp in the Swamp. My students also participated in Future Cities a contest where students take urban issues and solve them utilizing engineering and environmental best practices. We attended the nationals representing SC. I have been active since 1985 in various programs up until today. I was elected to the board in 2020 and received State Commissioner of the Year in 2021.
 

Why did you join the Richland Soil and Water Conservation District (RSWCD)?

I joined the district through an invitation after I won county and state Conservation teacher of the year.
 

What do you enjoy about RSWCD?

I enjoy my work as I enjoy working with the students and community in learning about the environment and how to preserve and utilize its resources.
 

What do you wish to tell the community?

With an emphasis on the climate, it is important to learn about the planet, our role in protecting our natural resources, and the excitement of unplugging and relaxing while learning about our world. What fun to see children picking a fresh tomato and getting to taste the fruits of their labors. The awe of watching a seed grow and the smile they receive when they present a plant to a parent.
 

What is an interesting fact about you?

I won the SCISA Teacher of the Year not just for my work with outdoor learning and activities with my students, but my exciting song and dance to the Atom Song.


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