The Senate this week passed Senate Bill 1020 (Wonderling-R-Montgomery) to update the 1945 law creating Pennsylvania’s county conservation districts.

"Today, the Commonwealth's conservation districts have a wide range of environmental responsibilities. The expansion of local, state, and federal environmental protection laws and land use planning requirements over the years has greatly increased the conservation districts' role to serve the growing needs of our communities. My legislation sets forth a comprehensive roadmap that will bring our conservation districts into the 21st century," said Sen. Wonderling.

“We are thrilled with the Senate passage of Senate Bill 1020. The unanimous Senate vote confirms the bi-partisan effort and importance of this legislation to strengthen the Conservation District law,” said Susan Marquart, Executive Director of the Pennsylvania Association of Conservation Districts.

Larry Kehl, PACD President agreed. “We would like to thank the entire PA Senate for their support of Senate Bill 1020 and we are looking forward to working with PA House members for swift action on the legislation.”

The measure proposes to streamline and increase operating funds for the conservation districts, better coordinate efforts between districts, provide uniform staff capabilities, and establish fair review fees.

The bill also requires the General Assembly to provide one appropriation directly to the State Conservation Commission at a level sufficient to meet the 50 percent funding goal for certain district positions. It allows districts to receive advanced funding for certain programs and not be required to lapse unused funds.

It recommends districts apply for DCED land use assistance grants, and requests that the Commission consider alternative funds, including possible fees to support the Nutrient Management Program. The measure also requires the Department of Environmental Protection develop a training program to certify inspection personnel and improve standardization of enforcement activities.

Conservation districts advise county and local governments on land development issues, work with farmers to comply with land management laws, assist non-profit environmental organizations with watershed and conservation efforts, and review and process land development plans and permits for builders and contractors.

Many districts also administer the state's Dirt and Gravel Road Maintenance Program, Nutrient Management laws, Floodplain Management plans, Waterways and Wetlands Protection measures, and a wide variety of environmental education and agricultural conservation programs.

It wasn't until the 1930's, in reaction to the "dust bowl", that state government became more involved in regulating agriculture as an industry. It was during this time that the Pennsylvania Legislature created the State's Conservation Commission. The initial purpose of the commission was to prevent soil erosion and help conserve water resources.

For more information on conservation districts, visit the State Conservation Commission and PA Association of Conservation Districts websites.

4/11/2008