The Dust Bowl drought of the 1930s caused a national crisis. Congress responded by declaring soil conservation a national priority. Conservation districts were created to connect the technical and financial resources of the federal government with local volunteers and landowners who knew the land best. Today, nearly 3,000 conservation districts operate in the United States to help develop solutions to local resource concerns.
What is a CD?
A conservation district is a special use district, similar to a school district or a fire district. We are non-regulatory entities established to provide landowners with technical and financial assistance. In Washington State, the 47 conservation districts are authorized by RCW 89.08. Conservation districts do not receive ongoing budget funds from either the state or county. Benton Conservation District is funded by grants and a special assessment authorized by Benton County Commissioners.
Mission
Our mission is to encourage wise stewardship of all natural resources for residents of Benton County. We serve all of Benton County, except for federal land holdings. We are governed by a board of five local volunteer landowners. If you wish to contact a board member, please contact us at the Benton Conservation District office and your request will be relayed to the board member.
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Administration
Cost Share Application
To be eligible for cost-share an applicant must work with CD staff to complete a cost-share application.
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Interlocal Agreement
The Interlocal Agreement between Benton and Franklin Conservation Districts allows the sharing of staff, equipment and other resources for efficient implementation of programs for both districts. This document includes specific terms for operation.
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Management MOU
The Management MOU between the Benton and the Franklin Conservation Districts allows for the Assistant Manager and the District Manager to manage both organizations.