District Staff

District Administrator, Tad Peacock 2, has lived and worked in Benzie County for over 30 years. He joined the District in May of 2008, bringing with him a Bachelor of Science degree in Resource Development and minor in Forestry from Michigan State University, along with a deep appreciation of our region’s abundant natural resources.

His part-time position with the District will co-exist with another position he holds in the community, that of Coordinator for the Benzie Human Services Collaborative. The two compliment each other in that each promote stewardship: one for the county’s human population and the other for the sustainability and enhancement of the natural local environment that defines this beautiful part of the state.

Tad’s vision for our local district is to establish and promote, along with area residents and property owners, best practices in environmental sustainability and to establish reliable funding to expand services in the community.

As a sideline, Peacock, who is an avid cyclist, has established a limited liability company, Endoman Promotions, a business that promotes and stages triathlons and mountain bike races locally, with a “leave no trace” philosophy.

With a strong connection and appreciation for the outdoors and the natural environment, Tad enjoys hiking, xc skiing, recreational and competitive cycling, water sports and spending time with family and friends.

Our new intern, Ashley Oakley, will be a great addition to our office. She will be assisting the Conservation by answering phones, helping walk-ins, website editing, and doing some field work out in our community.

Ashley is a recent graduate of our local high school, Benzie Central. While she attended Benzie Central High School, she participated in the National Honors Society, Academic Letter Club, basketball, and soccer. She also dual enrolled at Northwestern Michigan College in Traverse City. This fall, Ashley will continue her education at Albion College. She is enrolled in the pre-health program and will be majoring in Biology. She will be trying out for the women’s soccer team as well as joining several clubs.

This summer when Ashley is not helping in our office she will be working at her two other jobs located in Beulah. When she is not busy working, she will be enjoying our beautiful beaches and hanging out with her friends and family.

So, when you stop into the Benzie Conservation District Office this summer, don’t forget to say “Hello” to our new intern!