Mission and Background
 

MISSION

To cooperate, communicate, and educate landowners and operators, government agencies, schools, businesses and civic groups to preserve and protect our natural resources.  Use funds entrusted to provide technical and financial assistance as responsible stewards.

VISION

To protect our natural resources to meet the needs of our children and future generations.

In 1935, the U.S. Congress declared soil and water conservation and wise land use a national policy through the passage of Public Law 46.  This vote was prompted by a growing  public concern for the poor condition of the nation's natural resources.  In 1937, President Franklin Delano Roosevelt wrote to the governor of each state, recommending legislation to form soil and water conservation districts.  Within a year, the Soil and Water Conservation Districts Law of Virginia was passed.  This legislation was an effort to provide local citizens with the opportunity to shape soil and water conservation and resource planning in their community.

Like all soil and water conservation districts, Colonial SWCD is a political subdivision of the state of Virginia.  The district receives funding from the state and is advised by state agencies such as the Department of Conservation and Recreation.  The district also receives funds from each local government within its boundaries.


Soil and Water Conservation Districts focus on many
issues including:
        * water quality
        * soil erosion- control and prevention  
        * development and land use patterns
        * prevention of flood water and sediment damage
        * preservation of wildlife
        * protection of private woodlands and public lands
        * promotion of good health and safety of citizens