Conservation Policy

When deciding which issues to engage with and advocate for, we refer to the Guiding Principles of our Legislative and Administrative Committee. These principles include both legislative and administrative guidelines.

Legislative principles include

Nonpoint Pollution Performance Standards: Support science-based pollution control standards and adopt stricter measures where current efforts fall short. Promote alternative strategies like nutrient trading and Total Maximum Daily Loads (TMDLs), while encouraging continuous research and monitoring to ensure effectiveness..

County Land and Water Resource Management (LWRM) Plans: Advocate for locally led LWRM Plans with flexible content that meets state requirements.

Program Implementation: Promote cost-effective conservation solutions, seamless program integration, and local control over implementation.

Conservation Program Funding: Secure consistent funding for county conservation efforts by expanding grant opportunities for various conservation projects, advocating for non-bonding funds for statewide initiatives, and ensuring that each county receives sufficient funding to support three conservation staff. It's also important to guarantee that the distribution of funds is equitable across counties.

Administrative Guiding Principles

Cost-Effectiveness: Streamline programs and reduce unnecessary administrative tasks.

Tailored Approaches: Recognize the need for customized solutions across regions.

Shared Learning: Promote learning from shared experiences to avoid repeated mistakes.

Accountability: Track progress with GIS, field monitoring, and annual reports.

Resource Efficiency: Focus on long-term impacts amid increasing demand and limited funding.

Our Legislative and Administrative Committee comprises conservation members from each of our eight Area Associations. These representatives ensure a two-way communication channel, allowing members across the state to share program and policy challenges.

Members are encouraged to collaborate through their Area Associations, discussing issues and having their Area Representatives present them to the Committee. This process helps determine whether the challenges are isolated or shared by other counties statewide.

Additionally, members can raise concerns through our Local Policy Input process by completing a structured form designed to gather essential information. This allows us to efficiently connect with the appropriate experts and initiate meaningful discussions.

Agency programs 

Because our members are central to many state and federal programs and policies, much of our work focuses on convening various partners to foster a deeper understanding of how these programs interact at the local level. This collaboration aims to improve policy efficiency and effectiveness.

Legislation

Throughout the legislative session, state elected representatives draft new bills. When these bills affect our members, the Legislative and Administrative Committee reviews them and determines the best course of action.

Our members are invaluable in assessing the local impact of proposed legislation. They are able to provide legislators with insights to evaluate feasibility and identify potential unintended consequences, making them essential resources in the legislative process.

State Budget

Every odd-numbered year, the state undergoes a budget process. During this time, we collaborate closely with our Legislative and Administrative Committee, state agency partners, and interest groups who recognize the vital role of county conservation department staff. Together, we advocate for the necessary staffing budget, as required by statute, to ensure our members can continue advancing conservation efforts across the landscape.