Definitions.

As used in this chapter, the term:

(1) “Commissioner” means the Commissioner of Agriculture.

(2) “Council” means the Soil and Water Conservation Council.

(3) “Department” means the Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services.

(4) “District” or “soil and water conservation district” means a governmental subdivision of this state and a body corporate and politic, organized in accordance with the provisions of this chapter for the purpose, with the powers, and subject to the provisions set forth in this chapter. The term “district” when used in this chapter means and includes a “soil and water conservation district.” All districts organized under this chapter shall be known as soil and water conservation districts and shall have all the powers set out herein.

(5) “Due notice,” in addition to notice required pursuant to the provisions of chapter 120, means notice published at least twice, with an interval of at least 7 days between the two publication dates, in a newspaper or other publication of general circulation within the appropriate area.

(6) “Land occupier” or “occupier of land” means a person, other than the owner, who possesses any lands lying within a district organized under the provisions of this chapter, whether as lessee, renter, tenant, or otherwise.

(7) “Landowner” or “owner of land” means a person who holds legal or equitable title to any lands lying within a district organized under the provisions of this chapter.

(8) “Qualified elector” means a person qualified to vote in general elections under the constitution and laws of this state.

(9) “Supervisor” means a member of the governing body of a district who is elected in accordance with the provisions of this chapter.