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SWCD’s bring value to Minnesota communities

A conservationist who serves on the Minnesota Board of Water and Soil Resources says local soil and water conservation districts (SWCD) provide great value to communities.

Jason Weinerman tells Brownfield SWCD’s prioritize natural resource sustainability.

“They’re out there sustaining the landscape, keeping our water clean and soil healthy.  In addition, they serve as economic engines for the counties.  They provide a lot of funding to the communities in terms of practices and conservation (by) hiring local landowners and operators to put money on the ground to get conservation done.”

Soil and Water Conservation Districts direct natural resource management programs at the local level.

Weinerman says while SWCD’s were founded by the agricultural community, the districts now reach all of Minnesota.

“As they’ve matured, we have activities working with folks in communities (and) the cities.  They work with city entities, watershed districts.  Basically if you have a conservation or water quality concern on your landscape or environment, the conservation districts are an awesome venue to go to and receive assistance to help you do what you want to do on your landscape.”

Brownfield spoke to Weinerman at last month’s Minnesota Association of Soil and Water Conservation Districts annual convention in Minneapolis.