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History of the Kentucky

Conservation Program

In 1940, the Kentucky General Assembly passed enabling legislation, KRS Chapter 292, which allowed local farmers to petition and establish Conservation Districts. In 1941, the first Kentucky Conservation District was organized in South Logan County. North Logan soon followed, making Logan county the only Kentucky county with two Conservation Districts.

The remaining 119 Conservation Districts were formed on a county line basis, giving the state a total of 121 Conservation Districts. Henderson County was the final district to be organized. Thus, in 1954 Conservation Districts completely covered the state.

The purpose of a Conservation District is to conserve and develop all renewable natural resources within the district. In so doing, the district in authorized to undertake, sponsor, or participate in projects, activities and programs which promote the conservation, development, maintenance, management and wise use of the land, water, trees and other related, natural resources of the district.

Kentucky's Conservation Districts are a subdivision of state government and have been organized for the special purpose to assist landowners and land users:

  • In solving soil and water resource problems
  • Setting priorities for conservation work to be accomplishments
  • Coordinating the federal, state and local resources needed to accomplish this work.
  • Provide leadership at the local level and means for interested local citizens to work together to achieve desires results.

Purpose of Conservation Districts According to Kentucky Revised Statutes (KRS 262.020)

Why Are Conservation Districts

Important today?

Conservation Districts were formed in the beginning, to allow local citizens many opportunities to help guide and develop conservation programs in each county by working at the “grass roots” level, the most important vantage point for identifying problems, finding solutions and developing and implementing programs. Today, more so than ever, Conservation Districts are a valuable resource to face the challenges posed by natural resources use and management.

Kentucky Association of Conservation Districts

PO Box 4027

Frankfort, KY 40604-4027

(502) 682-1770

Crystal Renfro, Executive Director

Email: Crystal.Renfro.KACD@outlook.com

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