Soil and Water Conservation Districts (SWCDs) were established after the Dust Bowl of the 1930s and exist in every county in the United States. Their purpose is to help landowners conserve soil and water resources.

Although established by the government, SWCDs are not regulatory agencies or environmental activist groups.  YOU elect our Boards.

The Jefferson County SWCD assists local landowners, cooperators, and the public in the wise development and use of our natural resources.

We work with land managers and conservation partners to:

• ​Protect and enhance water quality and quantity, which benefits agriculture, recreation, fish and wildlife habitat, and drinking water when meeting state water quality standards.
• Conserve soil to ensure productive agricultural use and reduce the impacts of soil eroded by wind and water.
• Promote good stewardship of forest and range resources to improve watershed health, fish and wildlife habitat, and recreational uses.
• Develop and implement resource management plans and conservation farm plans.
• Create, improve, restore and enhance fish and wildlife habitat throughout Jefferson County.