In Indiana, a soil and water conservation district (SWCD) is a unit of state government responsible for soil and water conservation programs within its county boundaries.

 

The district provides a means for all interested people in a county to work together for natural resource conservation and development. It is funded through a variety of sources including county and state appropriations, activities, grants, and private donations.  There is a district office in each county in Indiana. The SWCD belongs to the Indiana Association of Soil and Water Conservation Districts and they provide more information on the partnerships needed to be successful in conserving our natural resources.

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The official governing body of the SWCD consists of five supervisors. Three are elected (one each year for a three-year term) at an annual meeting of land occupiers held in January or February. Two are appointed (also for staggered three-year terms) by the State Soil Conservation Board based upon recommendations of the leadership in the district. Thus, selection of all five supervisors is based on input from the local people they serve.

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Identifying local resource concerns and addressing the needs of the community is a priority for the Jasper County SWCD. This is accomplished by conducting community meetings with the residents who best know the natural resource problems. After priorities are established the district looks for ways in which to address the problems. This may involve developing educational programs or applying for funding to implement conservation practices on private lands.  

 

Promoting a Healthy Environment by...

• Providing assistance to local residents for reducing soil erosion, conserving and protecting water quality, and solving other natural resource problems. 

• Working directly with private landowners and residents, the district coordinates technical assistance to develop plans uniquely suited to their resource concerns.

• Providing information and education outreach to youth and adults, encouraging good stewardship of our natural resources.