The Conservation District Movement

Across the United States, nearly 3000 conservation districts are working to conserve and develop land, water, forests, wildlife and related resources for the benefit of all. More than 15,000 men and women serve on the governing bodies of districts.

A conservation district is a local subdivision of state government that seeks, utilizes and coordinates assistance from all available, appropriate sources: private and public, local, state and federal. Districts work with more than 2.3 million cooperators nationwide, encompassing more than 778 million acres of private land.

Organized in all 50 states - plus Puerto Rico, the Virgin Islands, the Pacific Basin Islands, and the District of Columbia - districts have formed statewide associations to carry on educational and research activities that will further the wise use of natural resources. Working in cooperation with these associations are state soil and water conservation agencies - responsible under the laws of their states for encouraging the organization of districts, providing information about their work, assisting them in their efforts, and coordinating their activities.

The National Association of Conservation Districts (NACD) was organized by districts and their state associations to serve as the national voice for the conservation district movement. Formed in 1946, NACD enables districts to collectively accomplish what would be difficult or impossible to accomplish individually. NACD pools district experience and develops national policies on a continuing basis. It maintains relationships with organizations and government agencies; publishes information about districts; works with leaders in agriculture, environment, industry, youth, religion and other fields; and provides services to districts through its various offices throughout the country.

"Conservation - Development - Self-Government" is the theme of the district movement, symbolizing the dedication of district officials to purposeful, constructive action in the field of conservation, resource development, and grassroots leadership - fundamental to American growth and prosperity.

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