What is a Soil & Water Conservation District?

Soil and Water Conservation Districts (SWCDs) were originally organized, for the most part, within county boundaries by landowner petition based on a need for soil and water conservation and in the interest of public health, safety, and welfare. A geographical area established for conservation purposes with a board of directors that serve as a local unit of government, which prioritize and assist in the delivery of services provided by USDA-NRCS (Natural Resources Conservation Services). It is a local committee that increases public awareness and participation in resource conservation. It serves conservation needs at a county level and works in partnership with the federal government.

The Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS) administers the soil and water conservation programs assigned to it by the Legislature under the Soil and Water Conservation Law, Chapter 582, Florida Statutes.