BASIC INTRODUCTION

Topics In Leadership Management for Conservation District Leaders

Instructor: Angela P. White

SWCDs

• “Political subdivisions of State Government" that utilize state, federal, and private sector resources to solve today's conservation problems.

• Guiding Philosophy = Decisions on conservation issues should be made at the local level, by local people, with technical assistance provided by government.

WHAT?

General Duties & Responsibilities Focus attention on local land, water and related

natural resource problems. Develop and implement various programs to solve

natural resource problems. Provide general conservation and natural resource

information; Source of help for citizens. Develop and Approve Conservation Plans for

various legislative programs. Provide cost-share assistance for BMPs.

SWCDs

VA SWCDs = 47

The Purpose of Conservation Districts• By working with landowners, organizations

and government the conservation districts work to protect soil, water quality and other natural resources, maintain resource productivity and protect or improve profitability.

GENERAL OVERVIEW

• Directors are members of District Boards.

• Authorized by state law to fulfill responsibilities related to the management of soil and water resources and the conservation of natural resources.

DIRECTORS

What it takes to be a Director

• If you are going to be a director, you need to be serious about the job. It takes a commitment of your time, and sometimes some of your money, to do the job properly.

You have a lot of responsibility.If something goes wrong, you are going to get at

least some of the blame. Here are a few examples:If district money is misused or missing,If grant agreement terms are not satisfied,If the district is accused of not treating all citizens the

same,If the district cannot operate properly because of lack of

funds, orIf the district gets sued.

You are very important, but ... •Much of the success of the district will be because

of your employees.

•Try to help them accomplish the goals of the district as well as possible.

•If you can’t help them, please don’t get in their way.

•Even though you must make most important district decisions, take advantage of their expertise and listen to their opinions on district matters.