Legislation was introduced this week to create a new Conservation District Fund, a special non-lapsing fund that will make it easier for county conservation districts to receive state appropriations.

The fund is contained in Senate Bill 1224, sponsored by Sen. Wenger (R-Lancaster), and House Bill 2743, sponsored by Rep. Hershey (R-Chester).

The PA Association of Conservation Districts is urging the General Assembly to approve creating the Fund as part of the 2006-07 budget.

PACD is also asking legislators to consider allocating an additional $4.5 million for district programs in the 2006-2007 that would allow districts to implement and expand programs such as watershed protection and other environmental programs to better serve county residents.

“Senate Bill 1224 and House Bill 2743 will streamline the district funding process and reduce administrative costs, allowing districts to spend more time and money helping their community and less time filling out forms and other paperwork,” said Victor Cappucci, PACD President. “Additional state funding will allow the conservation districts to better serve our Commonwealth’s residents. Districts would be able to implement and expand programs affecting PA citizens. “

“We believe that Pennsylvania’s elected leaders have a clear understanding of district operations and programs, and the need for additional state funding to meet district goals,” said Susan Marquart, PACD Executive Director. “PA citizens count on the services we provide to our community. Hopefully conservation districts will be granted the additional funding needed to continue their mission of working with communities to protect our county’s natural resources.”

6/16/2006