VASWCD Policy Papers

Map of the Soil and Water
Conservation District Areas in Virginia

About the Virginia Soil and Water Conservation Districts (VASWCD)
A soil and water conservation district is a political subdivision of state government responsible for conservation work within its boundaries. A district focuses attention on land, water and related resource problems; develops programs for solving the problems; and coordinates assistance from public and private sources to carry out conservation programs.

When the Soil Conservation Districts Law of Virginia was passed in 1938, the foundation was laid for today’s 47 soil and water conservation districts. Other states throughout the country have established similar organizational structures, and there are now over 3,000 soil and water conservation districts nationwide.

Districts provide local citizens with the opportunity to shape resource planning in their communities. While receiving technical and financial assistance from local, state and federal sources, soil and water conservation district boards make the decisions, set the priorities and make sure conservation occurs.

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