SECTION FIVE
Sources of Assistance for Conservation Districts and Directors
Introduction
While the responsibilities of a conservation district director can appear extensive, it is important to recognize that directors are not expected to work in isolation. A wide range of agencies, associations, and individuals are available to provide information, guidance, and technical assistance to support district operations and enhance leadership effectiveness.
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These support systems offer valuable resources, including technical expertise, communication networks, institutional knowledge, financial assistance, and historical context. They also provide insight into the broader statewide framework within which Pennsylvania’s conservation districts operate. Access to these resources allows directors to benefit from shared experiences, lessons learned, and examples of past successes, challenges, and innovations from other districts across the Commonwealth.
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This section provides an overview of the principal support systems available to district directors and outlines opportunities for personal and professional development. By drawing upon these resources, directors can strengthen their understanding of conservation programs, improve district operations, and increase their effectiveness as local leaders in natural resource management.
DISTRICT ALLIANCES AND SUPPORT
State Conservation Commission (SCC)
The State Conservation Commission was created by the Legislature of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania by the Conservation District Law, Act 217 of 1945, and is charged with providing administrative and policy oversight, and administrative, financial, educational, information and other assistance to conservation districts in planning and implementing conservation programs to protect and enhance the Commonwealth's natural resources.
The 14 Commission members include the secretary of the PA Department of Agriculture, the secretary of the PA Department of Environmental Protection, the dean of the Pennsylvania State University College of Agricultural Sciences, and four active farmers and two non-farmers appointed by the governor with the advice and consent of a majority of the state Senate. The Commission’s five non-voting associate members include the state conservationist for the Pennsylvania office of the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service, the director of the Pennsylvania State University Cooperative Extension Services, Pennsylvania Association of Conservation Districts President, Secretary of Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) and Secretary of Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED). The chairmanship of the Commission alternates annually (on a state fiscal year basis, July 1 to June 30) between the secretary of the Department of Agriculture (PDA) and the secretary of the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP). The vice chairman is elected annually from the appointed members. Staff from both the Department of Agriculture and the Department of Environmental Protection are available to assist the Commission.
The SCC administers and enforces the Pennsylvania Nutrient Management Act and Odor Management Programs (Act 38) through state staff and county conservation districts. The Commission administers the Agriculture Conservation Assistance Program (ACAP), as well as overseeing the Dirt, Gravel, and Low Volume Roads Maintenance Program (DGLVR), and supports the local administration of both programs through conservation districts. The Commission also administers the Resource Enhancement and Protection (REAP) Tax Credit Program, the Conservation Excellence Grant (CEG) Program.
The SCC provides funding through the Conservation District Fund Allocation Program (CDFAP) Program to be used for the employment of conservation district managers for the districts, to provide administrative funding assistance to districts, to finance Commission mandated or authorized activities. Programs funded through the CDFAP include the Agricultural Conservation Technical Assistance (ACT) Program, the Building for Tomorrow Leadership Development Program, the Pennsylvania Envirothon, Pennsylvania Agricultural Ombudsman Program, and other special projects.
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Pennsylvania State Conservation Commission
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In addition to the usual powers and duties of an administrative department, the State Conservation Commission has the following duties, powers, and authorities:
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1. To give general guidance and assistance in developing conservation district long-range and annual programs and to approve and coordinate conservation district programs.
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2. To secure the cooperation and assistance of any governmental agency and to be the agency through which governmental aid in erosion control can be extended to private lands.
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3. To delegate to a member or staff any power or duty it deems proper.
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4. To request special reports, surveys or studies from any agency of the Commonwealth and The Pennsylvania State University.
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5. To receive such funds, services or materials as may be appropriated, granted or donated to it and use such resources for carrying out the provisions of the Conservation District Law:
a. The actual and necessary expenses of all appointed members of the Commission.
b. The apportionment among the conservation districts of any funds allotted from state or federal sources.
c. The allocation of the state cost-share funds for certain conservation-related projects.
d. Requiring the retention of necessary records.
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6. To disseminate information concerning the activities and programs of conservation districts.
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7. To encourage and assist in the creation of conservation districts and designate county
organizations for the purpose of nominating district directors.
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8. To offer such assistance as may be appropriate to district directors and staff:
a. Approve and coordinate the programs or projects of conservation districts.
b. Keep the directors of each conservation district informed of activities and successful experiences in other districts. (Field representatives should meet with all newly-appointed directors to discuss their responsibilities.)
c. Disseminate information concerning the activities and programs of conservation districts and the State Conservation Commission.
d. Be responsible for the oversight of expenditures of conservation district funds which are allocated from state and federal sources.
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9. Approve applications for PL-566 Watershed Protection and Flood Prevention Projects and Resource Conservation and Development Programs and determine priorities for planning.
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10. Promulgate rules and set policies necessary to fulfill the responsibilities of Act 217 and to ascertain compliance with this law and any procedures or policies adopted by the State Conservation Commission.
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11. Keep a full and accurate set of records of all proceedings, resolutions, regulations, and orders issued or adopted.
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12. Develop a program of assistance to environmental advisory councils.
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13. To review fees for services established by Conservation Districts for the purpose of determining if such fees are reasonable in relation to the scope of the services to be provided.
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District Actions Requiring State Conservation Commission Approval
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The primary purpose of State Conservation Commission approval is to ensure that conservation district programs and projects are initiated and administered within the scope of the district’s legal authority under Act 217 and are supported by adequate financial, staffing, and technical resources.
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Certain district programs and projects require formal approval by the Commission to confirm compliance with statutory authority and district capacity. The criteria identifying programs and projects subject to Commission approval are established by Commission policy. In some instances, approval authority has been delegated by the Commission to the Commission’s Executive Secretary.
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The State Conservation Commission adopted these program approval guidelines as official policy on January 23, 2001.
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Matters Requiring Approval by the State Conservation Commission
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1. Memoranda of Understanding when any State or Federal agency is party to the memoranda.
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2. Entering into contracts, when the estimated project cost exceeds $250,000.
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3. Allocations and reallocations for the Conservation District Fund Allocation Program.
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4. Allocations and program direction for the Chesapeake Bay Nonpoint Pollution Program and other nonpoint source pollution programs implemented in whole or in part under the Commission’s legal authority.
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5. The format for contracts or agreements for the Landowner Reclamation Program. (Executive Secretary authorized to sign specific agreements.)
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6. Public Law 566 projects.
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7. Resource Conservation and Development Program project areas.
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8. Other federal programs requiring Commission approval.
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9. The addition or deletion of organizations from the list approved to nominate district directors. (The Executive Secretary has authority to approve changes provided these changes are consistent with Commission policy.)
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10. Increases or decreases in the number of directors on a district board. (The Executive Secretary has authority to approve changes provided these changes are consistent with Commission Policy.)
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11. Changes in the composition of the board of directors. (The Executive Secretary has authority to approve changes provided these changes are consistent with Commission Policy.)
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12. A district's acceptance of any authority delegated by municipal or county governments, the Commonwealth or the Federal government.
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13. Contributions to a conservation district, of any character and from any source, unless the funding is from another governmental agency, or unless specifically authorized under Act 217 (i.e. the purchase, exchange, lease, gift, or grant of any real property).
a. For contributions of any character, valued at $10,000 or less, a district may accept such donations if the following criteria are met:
1) Action to accept the donation(s) is taken by the board of directors at an official meeting of the board;
2) The acceptance of the approved donation(s), the amount, source and the intended use is clearly noted in the minutes of the conservation district meeting;
3) The amount of the donation(s) and the source(s) are specifically recorded in the district’s financial records and is subject to the annual audit of the district’s financial records;
4) The contribution is made and accepted with the clear understanding that it is not intended in any way to influence any vote, official action, or judgment of the district board or any of its members or district staff; and
b. Acceptance by a district of an individual contribution valued at more than $10,000 requires approval of the Commission. The Executive Secretary of the Commission is authorized to approve individual donations of up to $50,000 and shall report such action at the next regularly scheduled meeting of the Commission. Individual donations exceeding $50,000 shall be considered by the full Commission at its next regularly scheduled meeting.
c. Nothing in this policy shall in any manner exempt, change, modify or negate any portion of the Pennsylvania Ethics Law or any other law that governs or restricts the conduct of an individual conservation district director or conservation district staff member.
d. Donations made to conservation districts as a part of a settlement agreement that is overseen by a governmental entity (state agency, attorney general, etc.) are viewed as funds provided by other governmental agencies for purposes of this policy.
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14. The Executive Secretary shall report all actions taken on behalf of the Commission, pursuant to this policy, at the next regular meeting of the SCC. In addition, the Executive Secretary shall provide acknowledgement of each action taken by the SCC to each district required to submit items for Commission approval under this policy.
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Matters Requiring Commission Notification
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Commission approval is not required for the following matters; however, notification of the Commission is required.
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1. Memoranda of Understanding and/or other formal agreements between the district and county agencies or local municipalities.
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2. Appointment of district directors.
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3. District's fee schedule.
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4. District's annual budget and financial report.
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5. District audit.
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Matters That Do Not Require Commission Approval or Notification
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No Commission approval or notification is required for the following matters:
1. Purchases of supplies by districts for resale.
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2. Purchases of supplies of equipment for normal district operations, including such items as vehicles, no-till planters, and office equipment.
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3. Charging fees for services rendered by the district as long as the district’s fee schedule and related policies conform to the Commission’s policy on fees as required by law or regulation. All exceptions will require Commission approval.
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4. Landowner Reclamation Program agreements with individual landowners.
Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (DEP)
The Department of Environmental Protection ensures the wise use of Pennsylvania’s natural resources; protects and restores the natural environment; protects public health and safety; and enhances the quality of life for all Pennsylvanians.
​It provides technical assistance and education for the public and sets regulations and guidelines for public compliance. The Department is responsible for designating an office and staff to coordinate and assist in the development, implementation and enforcement of programs adopted by the State Conservation Commission to protect surface or ground water and soil resources.
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There are several bureaus in the Department of Environmental Protection that work closely with conservation districts. The DEP, Conservation District Support Section works to improve water quality by controlling the discharge of nonpoint source pollutants to Commonwealth waters.
Staff support for the State Conservation Commission is found in this bureau and programs include the Chesapeake Bay Program, the Landowner Reclamation Program, the Erosion and Sediment Pollution Control Program, the land application of biosolids, aspects of the statewide Nutrient Management Program, coordination of conservation district watershed specialists and watershed protection and assistance.
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The Division of Nutrient Management and Conservation District Support oversees the cost share funds provided to districts through the Conservation District Fund Allocation Program (CDFAP) and Act 13 funds and coordinates leadership development training for district directors and staff.
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DEP’s six regional offices also provide technical and administrative training and assistance to conservation districts through the services of Field Representatives, legal counsel and technical staff working in programs that contain responsibilities delegated to districts.
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DEP Conservation District Field Representatives
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Conservation district directors carry significant and evolving responsibilities. While the original role of district directors focused on promoting conservation and prioritizing requests for assistance, expanded programs and staffing have increased expectations related to financial oversight, personnel management, policy development, and program evaluation. Regionally assigned DEP “Field Reps” support these responsibilities by providing district-specific assistance and broader perspective based on experience with conservation districts statewide. They serve as a key resource for directors, managers, and staff in navigating programmatic, administrative, and regulatory requirements.
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Field Representatives support and assist conservation districts by:
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Providing consultative, technical, and training support for directors, managers, and staff.
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Maintaining current knowledge of programs, laws, regulations, and policy affecting districts and ensuring that district activities comply with statutory authority and state guidelines.
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Acting as first point of contact for district inquiries and guidance and serving as primary liaison between districts, DEP, and the State Conservation Commission (SCC), as well as between the district and County Commissioner & Chief Clerk
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Supporting the director nomination process
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Attending board meetings and providing updates and talking points.
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Providing guidance on district policy and compliance with Sunshine Law, Right-to-Know Law, and Ethics Act.
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Coordinating regional roundtables and trainings.
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Reviewing Bay Tech Contracts and Quarterlies (in Bay regions).​
Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture (PDA)
The Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture (PDA) is responsible for advancing agricultural enterprise and supporting rural development throughout the Commonwealth. Core priorities of the Department include the preservation of agricultural land and the improvement of the economic and social well-being of rural communities. To support these objectives, PDA designates staff to serve as advocates for production agriculture in the development of programs administered by the State Conservation Commission.
PDA staff also assist in the development of strategies to manage excess manure and support agricultural operations in achieving compliance with the Nutrient Management Act. In addition, the Department administers the Nutrient Management Certification Program, which certifies individuals to prepare and review nutrient management plans for compliance with Commonwealth regulations.
The USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS)
The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Natural Resources Conservation Service (formerly called the Soil Conservation Service) has a long and extensive tradition of working with conservation districts.
It is responsible for the federal technical service available for developing conservation plans, establishing conservation practices, and providing technical oversight and guidance on technical standards and specifications as it relates to conservation practice implementation.
NRCS also administers a variety of conservation programs, including but not limited to, Farm Bill conservation programs, the PL-566 Water Operations Program, Watershed Rehabilitation Program, the Soil Survey Program, and the Conservation Operations program. Through these programs, the NRCS may provide the service of their personnel directly to landowners and communities. Specific to conservation districts, NRCS may provide the service of their personnel, the use of their equipment, the sharing of their office space and counsel to districts.
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NRCS has a reputation as experts in conservation planning and conservation practice implementation. The NRCS work force is comprised of soil conservationists, soil scientists, technicians, engineers, cartographers, GIS specialists, foresters, grazing specialists, conservation planners and other natural resource specialists. NRCS employees have been working with farmers for more than 90 years, providing them with technical planning advice.
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There are endless examples of successful collaborations between NRCS and conservation districts across the Commonwealth. They share a rich and productive history. Together they have worked to help family farms, municipalities, private landowners, agriculture groups and concerned citizens make a difference in the environment.
Their efforts include conservation planning, wetland protection and restoration, wildlife habitat enhancement, nutrient and animal waste management, streambank stabilization, abandoned mine drainage abatement, erosion and sediment pollution control and watershed planning.
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More information about NRCS and the programs it offers in Pennsylvania can be found at www.pa.nrcs.usda.gov.
Pennsylvania Association of Conservation Districts, Inc. (PACD)
The Pennsylvania Association of Conservation Districts, Inc. (PACD) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that serves as the statewide association for Pennsylvania’s conservation districts. PACD represents the collective interests of conservation districts and supports their work through advocacy, education, training, and program coordination.
The association partners with federal and state agencies, private organizations, and business and industry stakeholders to advance locally led conservation efforts. PACD is supported through grants and conservation district membership dues.
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Founded in 1950 and incorporated in 1961 as the Pennsylvania Association of Soil Conservation District Directors, PACD has played a significant role in the development and strengthening of the Commonwealth’s conservation district system.
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PACD provides members with access to resources, professional development opportunities, and statewide coordination. The PACD website serves as a central resource for association news, events, grants, awards, educational materials, district contacts, and employment opportunities.
The PACD Directors email listserv provides conservation district directors and associate directors with legislative updates, event announcements, and other relevant information.
Conservation district directors and staff may participate in PACD governance and activities by serving on the PACD Executive Board, acting as a voting delegate to the PACD Executive Council, or volunteering on PACD committees. These roles provide opportunities to contribute to statewide policy discussions, address emerging conservation issues, and support the continued effectiveness of Pennsylvania’s conservation districts.
National Association of Conservation Districts (NACD)
The National Association of Conservation Districts (NACD) is the 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that represents America’s 3,000 conservation districts and the 17,000 individuals who serve on their governing boards. NACD’s mission is to promote responsible management and conservation of natural resources on all lands by representing locally led conservation districts and their associations through grassroots advocacy, education and partnerships.
The association was founded on the philosophy that conservation decisions should be made at the local level with technical and funding assistance from federal, state and local governments and the private sector. As the national voice for all conservation districts, NACD supports voluntary, incentive-driven natural resource conservation programs that benefit all citizens.
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NACD maintains relationships with organizations and government agencies; publishes information about districts; works with leaders in agriculture, conservation, environment, education, industry and other fields; and provides services to its districts. The association’s programs and activities aim to advance conservation led by local districts and the millions of cooperating landowners and land managers they serve.
Penn State Cooperative Extension
Penn State Cooperative Extension is an educational network that gives people in Pennsylvania's 67 counties access to Penn State's resources and expertise.
It is funded by the U.S. Department of Agriculture and state and county governments. Through this county-based partnership, Penn State extension agents, faculty, and local volunteers work together to share unbiased, research-based information with local residents.
Many conservation districts turn to Cooperative Extension for educational materials on soil and water conservation and a number of other resource topics. Workshops, exhibits and tours co-sponsored by districts and Extension are a familiar sight across the state.
Other Agencies and Organizations to Note
There are many agencies and organizations that assist districts as they develop and implement their programs or work jointly with them on designing and completing projects. In most cases, the agency’s available assistance and the district’s obligations to the agency are outlined in a memorandum of understanding clearly stating the responsibilities of each party. Some agencies, by the nature of their work, are naturally more involved in district programs than other agencies.
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Conservation districts are commonly involved with these federal agencies:
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Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
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The Environmental Protection Agency administers compliance with federal pollution control laws. It provides technical assistance to reduce and control air, water and land pollution, and it provides funding to develop and install pollution treatment facilities.
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Farm Service Agency (FSA)
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The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Farm Service Agency administers cost-sharing programs to farmers implementing conservation by the installation of land and water conservation practices. It also administers various federal programs related to agricultural land use.
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Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS)
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The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is responsible for wild birds, mammals (except certain marine mammals), and inland sport fisheries. The USFWS conducts research activities, conducts environmental impact assessments and manages wildlife refuges.
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U.S. Corps of Engineers, Department of the Army (COE)
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The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers plans and constructs reservoirs and other local measures to control floods and improve navigation. It is active in flood control, hydroelectric power, municipal and industrial water supplies, and recreation as well as planning for all functions of water resource development.
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U.S. Forest Service (USFS)
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The U.S. Forest Service has federal responsibility for forestry. The USFS sponsors cooperative programs through state forestry agencies, the Natural Resources Conservation Service and conservation districts to control fires, stabilize gullies, improve forest growth, plant trees and control forest pests.​
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U.S. Geological Survey (USGS)
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The U.S. Geological Survey is responsible for federal studies related to groundwater, stream sedimentation and earth, rock and mineral data. It also studies natural hazards such as earthquakes and volcanoes, identifies flood hazard areas and provides topographic maps.
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Conservation districts are commonly involved with these state agencies:
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Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED)
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The Department of Community and Economic Development is charged with fostering opportunities for businesses and communities to succeed and thrive in a global economy, thereby enabling Pennsylvanians to achieve a superior quality of life. DCED's community and economic development strategy has been designed to make Pennsylvania more attractive to existing companies, more competitive with other states in attracting new jobs, and more focused in efforts to link economic and community development to produce vibrant communities in a world-class economy.
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Conservation districts work with DCED on floodplain monitoring initiatives.
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Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR)
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This Department is given the responsibility of preserving and conserving the forests, state parks and other natural resources in Pennsylvania. The Bureau of State Parks and the Bureau of Forestry are located in this department. Conservation districts may work with the Bureau of Forestry, which cooperates in matters concerning reforestation, timber stand improvement and forest protection, or with the Bureau of State Parks, which maintains and operates the state parks in Pennsylvania.
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Pennsylvania Department of Education (PDE)
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The Pennsylvania Department of Education is responsible for leadership in environmental education in all grades of the public schools and colleges, including Future Farmers of America conservation activities and in-service training. Many conservation districts employ staff who have been certified by the Department of Education in programs such as Project Wild and Project Learning Tree.
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Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PA-DOT)
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The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation is responsible for administering the state’s transportation system and for giving consideration to conservation district recommendations regarding land use and water management when improving present or planning new transportation facilities including highways, airports and railways.
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Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission (PFBC)
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The Fish and Boat Commission is responsible for technical assistance and supervision in carrying out fish and aquatic life conservation activities, stream management, installation of devices, demonstrations, information, fish stocking, and fish management programs. It provides technical assistance to remedy problems that cause pollution to the Commonwealth’s waters.
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Pennsylvania Game Commission (PGC)
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The Game Commission is responsible for enforcing game protection laws, managing state game lands, and administering stocking programs. The Game Commission is also responsible for providing technical information regarding wildlife management practices and recruiting and assisting farm game cooperators.
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County and Local Cooperating Agencies
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Conservation districts both receive assistance from, and provide assistance to, a wide range of county and local agencies and organizations. Effective collaboration with these partners enhances program delivery, avoids duplication of effort, and strengthens locally led conservation outcomes.
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Common county and local cooperating agencies include, but are not limited to:
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County planning boards;
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Parks and recreation boards or commissions;
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County Farm Bureaus;
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Penn State Cooperative Extension county offices;
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Agricultural land preservation boards;
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County health departments;
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Recycling boards;
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Municipal governing bodies; and
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County governing boards.
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Township and borough officials frequently work with conservation districts on issues such as erosion and sediment control, dirt, gravel and low volume road maintenance, stormwater management, and land use planning. Watershed associations and other environmental organizations also partner with districts to combine technical expertise and financial resources, allowing project dollars to be leveraged and conservation outcomes multiplied.
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District nominating organizations represent another important source of collaboration. These organizations are closely aligned with conservation goals and programs, and joint efforts can strengthen both district initiatives and the director nomination process.
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Cooperation with Other Conservation Districts
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Conservation districts are unique organizations. While they are sub-units of state government, they are created by county resolution and operate under the authority of Pennsylvania’s Conservation District Law. This law grants districts a broad range of powers and responsibilities and allows them to determine, within legal and regulatory guidelines, which programs and services best meet local needs.
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Given this flexibility, no two conservation districts operate in exactly the same manner. As districts across Pennsylvania have expanded significantly in size, staffing, and program responsibilities, peer-to-peer communication has become an invaluable resource.
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Districts are encouraged to:
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Attend regional and statewide conservation district meetings;
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Visit neighboring districts or host peer visits;
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Co-sponsor projects or initiatives;
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Share newsletters, policies, and best practices;
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Utilize resources provided by the Pennsylvania Association of Conservation Districts (PACD); and
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Actively exchange ideas and experiences with fellow district directors and staff.
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Learning from the practical experience of other districts can provide some of the most effective guidance available in the areas of program management, finance, personnel, and governance.
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Resource Conservation and Development Councils (RC&D)
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Resource Conservation and Development Councils (RC&Ds) are nonprofit public–private partnerships that combine private enterprise and government interests to strengthen communities and promote sustainable resource use. Program activities are initiated and guided by volunteer councils made up of representatives from local government, businesses, development organizations, nonprofit organizations, conservation districts, and the general public.
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RC&D Councils engage local residents in identifying needs, setting priorities, and developing programs that support economic development, infrastructure improvement, and conservation objectives.
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Pennsylvania has nine RC&D Councils, each reflecting the unique characteristics and needs of its region. Councils employ professional staff to research opportunities, develop projects, and assist local partners. Each council operates under a long-range plan and an annual plan of work addressing priority regional issues. Programs evolve over time in response to changing needs and opportunities.
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Memoranda of Understanding
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Because of their cost-effective operations and strong local credibility, conservation districts are often asked to administer programs or carry out specific functions on behalf of federal, state, or local agencies. Conservation districts are authorized to enter into formal agreements with these entities to define roles and responsibilities.
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One common type of agreement is a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU). The purpose of an MOU is to clearly define each party’s responsibilities in planning and implementing conservation programs related to soil, water, and related natural resources.
MOUs are intended to:
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1. Coordinate efforts toward shared goals;
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2. Minimize duplication of effort;
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3. Maintain positive and cooperative working relationships;
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4. Pool staff, equipment, and material resources for maximum efficiency;
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5. Review and improve existing conservation programs and activities;
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6. Encourage innovation and practical solutions through shared expertise;
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7. Increase public awareness of natural resource conservation; and
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8. Stimulate conservation actions by individuals, organizations, and agencies.
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An MOU becomes effective upon signature by all parties and supersedes any previous memoranda addressing the same subject matter. MOUs may be modified by mutual agreement or terminated by any party with 60 days’ written notice.
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Conservation districts should review MOUs annually to ensure continued relevance. Joint reviews with partner agencies should occur at least every two years, with attention given to opportunities for clarification or improvement.
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Agreements Between Conservation Districts and County Government
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The relationship between conservation districts and county governments in Pennsylvania has evolved over more than 75 years. In some counties, districts have become more independent over time, while in others, closer ties with county government have developed.​
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Historically, many conservation district employees were placed on county payrolls, particularly in the early years when districts employed primarily clerical or administrative staff. Each conservation district board includes a county commissioner (or a member of the county governing body, i.e. County Council or County Executive) director, and early staffing decisions were often made through informal verbal agreements among board members and county officials.
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Over time, these informal arrangements—often referred to as “gentlemen’s agreements”—were not documented. As districts expanded in staffing, funding, program scope, and public visibility, questions have emerged regarding authority, accountability, and governance, including:
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1. County commissioners seeking clarity on the county’s role and obligations;
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2. District directors seeking clearer definitions of authority over programs and staff; and
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3. District staff seeking guidance on administrative and program responsibilities, particularly for county-related programs.
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In response, many conservation district boards have recognized the value of formally defining and documenting their relationship with county government. Districts with strong county partnerships have found that written agreements improve cooperation, clarify expectations, and reduce misunderstandings.
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DIRECTOR TRAINING AND NETWORKING
Pennsylvania's Conservation Partnership
A number of conservation, agriculture and natural resource agencies and organizations have formed a dynamic relationship and pledged to jointly provide conservation leadership for the Commonwealth and its citizens. As partners, they pledged to depend on each other to carry out programs successfully, effectively, and efficiently.
Their collective vision is “A dynamic and innovative partnership dedicated to providing quality leadership and service for the stewardship and conservation of Pennsylvania’s natural resources.”
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The Partnership’s guiding principles are:
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Sustaining, improving and conserving our natural resources and environment.
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Improving the quality of life for future generations.
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Listening, anticipating and responding to our customers’ needs.
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Anticipating, identifying and addressing issues.
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Building new alliances to expand our partnership.
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Supporting a holistic approach to conservation planning.
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Fostering economically viable environmental policies.
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The Partnership members further pledged to:
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advance and practice teamwork; involve each partner in the decision-making process; ensure Pennsylvania citizens have access to healthy food and clean water; communicate, coordinate and cooperate; share training opportunities; promote mutual respect, support, trust and honesty; and share the leadership and ownership, the credit and the responsibility.
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The Partnership’s signatory agencies and organizations at the state level are:
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Building For Tomorrow Leadership Development Program
The Building for Tomorrow Leadership Development Program was established in 1986 and serves as a cornerstone initiative to strengthen leadership capacity and professional development within Pennsylvania’s conservation districts.
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Sponsored by the State Conservation Commission, the program receives guidance through the Pennsylvania Conservation Partnership’s Leadership Development Committee, which is composed of conservation district directors and managers, as well as representatives from the SCC, DEP, PACD, NRCS, and Penn State Cooperative Extension.
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The Committee is responsible for assessing leadership development needs for all district personnel and developing training programs and other resources to meet these needs. PACD hosts the program and employs dedicated staff to deliver training, content, and other leadership development support.
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The overarching goal of leadership development training is to enhance district capacity by promoting professional growth, improving workforce retention, and encouraging more active engagement from directors. Training priorities, topics, and delivery formats are determined with input from both the Manager Training and Director Training Subcommittees, ensuring that programming remains responsive to the evolving needs of district staff and directors.
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The Leadership Development Program conducts a variety of training programs throughout the year, including annual events such as the Management Summit, Winter Staff Training initiative and Board Development initiatives. Other offerings include webinar series for all district audiences, curriculum-based training for new district managers, facilitation for district team-building events, and director orientation content such as short educational videos and reference materials. The program also provides funding and support for district strategic planning activity.
Statewide, Regional and National Meetings
Active participation in meetings at the regional, state, and national levels is a vital component of a director’s professional development and an important means of strengthening the effectiveness of conservation districts across the Commonwealth. Directors are strongly encouraged to take advantage of these opportunities to exchange ideas, share experiences, and remain informed of emerging policies, programs, and best practices.
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The Pennsylvania Association of Conservation Districts (PACD) conducts two Executive Council meetings each year and co-hosts a Joint Annual Conference with the State Conservation Commission and county conservation districts. PACD also holds biyearly regional meetings in Spring and Fall designed to provide directors with statewide program updates and a forum to discuss local and regional issues—particularly beneficial for directors with limited travel availability.
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At the national level, the National Association of Conservation Districts (NACD) sponsors both regional and national conventions annually. Attendance at these events provides valuable opportunities to learn from peers across the nation and to bring back innovative ideas and approaches that can enhance local district operations.
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When attending meetings as an official representative of a conservation district, directors should present the views and positions of their district board rather than individual opinions. Directors are expected to act in a manner that reflects the policies and priorities of their governing body.
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Districts may, when financially feasible, reimburse directors for reasonable travel and related expenses incurred while attending meetings or conferences directly connected to district operations or governance.