Approximately 170 representatives of county conservation districts and partnering agencies attended the PA Association of Conservation Districts’ Winter Meeting in State College from January 16-18.

Delegates at the meeting were concerned that the current Pennsylvania prevailing wage threshold was too low and hindering potential agricultural and conservation projects. Consequently, the following motion was approved at the PACD Executive Council Meeting to replace current prevailing wage policy:

“PACD supports an increase in the threshold of the prevailing wage law. Following each twelve month period thereafter, the estimated cost threshold shall be increased by an annual cost adjustment calculated by applying the percentage change in the consumer price index. Because of the limited amount of funding available for conservation projects, this increase will allow conservation districts to work more effectively with the agricultural and conservation community.”

In addition to the policy discussions at the conference, PACD held a Conservation Partnership Forum. A panel representing five state and federal agencies along with PACD officers and DEP region directors participated in a discussion with attendees on issues and concerns with conservation programs. Topics such as the Farm Bill, Resource Enhancement and Protection Program (REAP), contract renewals for watershed specialist positions, and the Chesapeake Bay Tributary Strategy were addressed.

Another panel discussion was held on “Thinking Outside the Funding Box.” Representatives from the departments of Environmental Protection and Community and Economic Development, National Fish and Wildlife Foundation, Natural Resources Conservation Service, Foundation for PA Watersheds, and Westmoreland Conservation District showed how grant and other funding opportunities can help conservation districts meet funding challenges.

The Conservation Partnership’s Leadership Development Committee held a session titled, “Developing and Fostering Relations with County Government.” Additionally a PACD Issues Forum provided updates on Chapter 102 (erosion and sediment control) and Global Warming’s Impacts on PA’s Fish and Wildlife. Karl Brown, executive secretary of the State Conservation Commission, spoke about latest developments with REAP.

Ken Meck, Lancaster County Conservation District Director, was elected PACD treasurer. Susan Marquart, PACD Executive Director, stated, “We are pleased to have Mr. Meck as our newly elected treasurer. His experiences as a conservation district director in Lancaster County will serve our Association well.”

She went on to say, “Our winter meeting gave representatives from conservation districts the opportunity to participate in the many educational opportunities available during the conference, to network with other district representatives, and to meet with partnering state and federal agencies.”

The panel discussion on “Thinking Outside the Funding Box” presented funding ideas for conservation districts to explore.

For more information, visit the PA Association of Conservation District Association website.

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2/1/2008