The conservation district community and its partners met in State College from July 28-30 for the 61st annual Pennsylvania Association of Conservation Districts, Inc. / State Conservation Commissions Joint Annual Conference themed “In Focus: A New Vision for Conservation Districts.”

At the PACD annual meeting several policy issues were discussed including gas exploration, leasing, and development. PACD delegates passed policy urging conservation districts to work with and encourage the Penn State Cooperative Extension and other organizations to educate landowners about gas exploration, leasing, and development, and to use conservation districts as a resource. PACD will also encourage DEP Bureau of Oil and Gas Management to work with conservation districts to ensure water resource protection.

A number of educational opportunities were presented during the convention including a leadership development session, a presentation on agricultural law, safety training for erosion and sedimentation technicians, and conservation planning for agricultural technical staff.

During the convention several awards were presented. (See separate story)

Larry Kehl, President of PACD stated, “It is a real honor to be the President of PACD. Conservation districts are an integral part of most communities whether they are located in rural, suburban, or urban communities. I hope to continue promoting the great work accomplished by districts across the Commonwealth.”

Susan Marquart, Executive Director stated, “Our convention gave participants the opportunity to further education themselves on conservation issues, share ideas and solutions, and create sound conservation policies.”

Brenda Shambaugh, Government Relations/Policy specialist concluded, “The policy items our delegates passed will be forwarded to our elected leaders in Harrisburg and Washington DC so they understand the thoughts and concerns of conservation districts in Pennsylvania and the entire northeast.”

Sponsors for the convention include Filtrexx International, PA DEP, State Conservation Commission, ACF Environmental/CPESC, Inc., Eco-Bound, Inc., M & T Bank, Octoraro Native Plant Nursery, Dominion, East Coast Erosion Blankets, Center for Dirt and Gravel Roads, Maintenance Equipment & Chemicals, Inc., and PLGIT.

For more information, visit the PACD and State Conservation Commission websites

8/1/2008