Maryland's Soil Conservation Districts

The Soil Conservation Districts (SCDs) of Maryland are a political subdivision of the state. We work with local, State and Federal authorities as well as the private sector to address each County's soil and water conservation needs.

The Districts are a self-governing body, administered by a Board of Supervisors. The Supervisors are private citizens who are aware of the local environmental concerns and qualities. They are appointed (one appointed by the County; one by the Cooperative Extension Service; one by Farm Bureau and two at-large) to serve 5 year terms in their SCD.

District operations are directed by the Board and carried out by the staff.

Grants from the state and county and proceeds from special District programs account for the District's income.

Through the local soil conservation district local landowners and residents have access to technical services that help them in installing a full menu of soil conservation practices that reduce erosion and improve water quality.

Housed within the walls of each Maryland soil conservation district are soil conservation professionals from the Maryland Department of Agriculture, the USDA Natural Resource Conservation Service, as well as local conservation educators and managers.

One key issue that unites all of our districts is working with their many partners in improving the health and well-being of our great regional natural resource, the Chesapeake Bay.

Districts work hard at conserving our natural resources and the quality of life for you and your family. With your assistance, we could do an even better job. If you are a farmer or landowner, become a cooperator with your local Soil Conservation District. Work with them on installing conservation practices on your agricultural land.

The soil conservation districts are not regulatory agencies. The aim of the Maryland soil conservation districts is to enhance farming operations while helping to conserve our valuable soil and clean water. They also assist local residents in finding financial help to install best management practices that protect water quality.

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