Washington Conservation District: About the District

ABOUT US

Providing grassroots solutions for protecting soil and water for future generations in Washington County, Minnesota... since 1942.

What is the Washington Conservation District (WCD) and what do we do?
In the 1930's, Soil and Water Conservation Districts were created in response to national concern over erosion, floods, and the About the Washington Conservation District

About the Washington Conservation District

sky-blackening dust storms that swept across our country. These Districts were organized along county boundaries with the purpose of managing and directing conservation programs and assisting landowners in conserving soil and water resources. The WCD was established in 1942 through State Statute 103C. The District is governed by five locally elected supervisors who hold monthly public meetings and is staffed by professionals dedicated to serving the public.

Protecting natural resources is paramount to the WCD. To bring this protection, the WCD provides technical and financial assistance to county residents, local government units, and watershed organizations as well as other agencies and organizations. We also assist these individuals and organizations with the planning, preparation, and implementation of natural resource management plans, implementation of the Wetland Conservation Act, natural resource education, and application of sound natural resource practices.

The impacts and environmental benefits of our programs are widespread. The partnerships we have with agencies About the Washington Conservation District

within and outside the county encourages cooperation and efficiency in government. Monitoring data collected by our staff helps to detect issues affecting the environment before they become problems. The financial assistance made available through WCD programs and partnership facilitates natural resource protection that may not otherwise occur. Our education programs and information increase awareness and public support of conservation programs and environmental initiatives. And, our volunteer programs help promote environmental stewardship by engaging and involving citizens in natural resource management.

Our programs are funded through a variety of sources including county allocation, grants, contracts with local government units and watershed organizations, state and federal cost share, and a small amount from private industry. The projects implemented through our programs and partnerships benefit the environment countywide and in turn increase property values and aesthetic appeal for all. The WCD's goal is not to profit financially from our services, but to provide sound environmental services at cost to individuals and organizations, cities and townships, Washington County, and watershed organizations.