What is a ConservationDistrict?

Conservation Districts are considered a governmental subdivision of the state; however, they are not a state agency and do not receive an ongoing operating budget from the state general fund. They are independently governed by a five member board of local supervisors, who must be landowners or occupiers within the conservation district.

Conservation Districts do not have any regulatory authority and do not report to any regulatory authority. They only make recommendations to landowners about how to improve or conserve natural resources. They also provide assistance, in the form of technical advice and cost-share funding opportunities, for the design and implementation of conservation projects.

Other activities of Conservation Districts include: conducting surveys and research, conducting demonstrations and workshops, carrying out prevention and control measures, and developing/administering programs that ensure the conservation of renewable natural resources within the district.

Conservation Districts came about in the early 1930’s when a severe and sustained drought in the Great Plains began to erode and blow away the region's soil. The huge, black dust storms created during this ecological disaster became known as the Dust Bowl. As a result, Congress passed legislation declaring soil and water conservation a national policy and priority.

President Roosevelt developed legislation (Standard States District Act) that would allow local landowners to form soil conservation districts. The formation of these locally governed conservation districts allowed states to receive assistance from the federal Soil Conservation Service (now the Natural Resources Conservation Service). District boards identified local soil conservation priorities and informed the local public about new practices that could save soil and improve the profitability of farms. They also facilitated communication between local landowners and the federal government.

Pine Creek Conservation District really is your conservation district. Public input is encouraged and we are happy to answer any questions you may have.

Attend a Board Meeting!

Board Meetings are open to the public. Meetings are held the second Wednesday of each mo

nth (except no August meeting) at the District office located at 401 S. SR 27 in Oakesdale.

Call ahead to confirm meeting time (509-285-5122)