What are Soil and Water Conservation Districts
Soil and Water Conservation Districts (SWCDs) exist in most counties of the United States. They are legally defined as subdivisions of State government, but they function as local units. There are 92 Indiana SWCDs putting conservation on the ground. The results are cleaner water; more productive crop, pasture, and forest lands; and vibrant wildlife habitat.
History of Tippecanoe Soil and Water Conservation District
The Tippecanoe District was organized through a public referendum held in 1940 in accordance with the Indiana Soil Conservation Act to conserve soil and water resources, control and prevent soil erosion, protect water quality, reduce flood damage, and further the conservation development, use, and disposal of water. At its origin, only five townships were served by and included in the District. Over the course of time, the District has come to serve all of Tippecanoe County, including the once excluded cities of Lafayette and West Lafayette, as well as the smaller towns.
The Tippecanoe Soil and Water Conservation District strives to make natural resources as economically viable and environmentally healthy as possible by equipping residents with knowledge, financial resources, and motivation to make Tippecanoe County a great place to live and work.
Why the Soil and Water Conservation District is Important
Provides technical assistance to the community to implement conservation measures related to soil erosion and sedimentation, nutrient and pesticide application, streambank stabilization, buffers and waterway protection needed, lawn fertilizer and pesticide contamination, wildlife habitat loss and fragmentation, and stormwater runnoff.
Brings federal, state, and private dollars to Tippecanoe County to assist landowners with implementation costs and technical assistance.
Conducts research and assessments to identify problems and solutions to protect the environment, economy, and community.
Works with local agencies and groups to address watershed-wide natural resource concerns and opportunities.
Educates residents through public speaking, workshops, printed materials, and public media.