Cassi Newton grew up in the Kahler Creek Watershed of Wheeler County and has a deep love for the rural John Day Basin. After high school, Cassi attended EOU and obtained a Bachelor’s in Business Administration and Accounting before moving to Denver, Colorado. While in Colorado, Cassi attended Lincoln School of Technology, obtaining a degree in Automotive Technology and opened her own race shop while working full time in the accounting field. Family brought her back to Wheeler County in 2017. She briefly worked for the County Assessor before joining Wheeler SWCD in 2019. Having been accepted to PSU prior to joining the SWCD team, Cassi obtained a Master’s in Accounting in 2021.
Throughout her five years with the District, Cassi has proven her ability to adapt and persevere in any situation and has filled many roles. Her eager to learn and resourcefulness has been key to her rapid gain of knowledge regarding natural resources and conservation.
Since May 2021, Cassi has gone above and beyond her hired role. Currently, Cassi’s primary role with the District is to direct the overall operations, lead staff in daily work, financial and contract management, permitting, policies, and administering the Education and Outreach Program. 
Through the guidance of the SWCD Board, Cassi has been the driving force in organizing the property acquisition and planning for the development of a Conservation Community Center to serve Wheeler County. Her passion for helping others is shown through her community involvement and her roles at Wheeler SWCD.