Where are we?

Flathead County, Montana

Purpose

Conservation districts (CDs) work locally to fulfill the state's policy to conserve soil, water, and other natural resources of the state. The Flathead Conservation District (FCD) covers all areas within the county boundaries except within the original (1947) city limits of Kalispell and Columbia Falls.

History

Conservation districts grew from public concern for the condition of our natural resources in the 1930s. In 1935, the US Congress declared soil and water conservation to be national policy, with the passage of Public Law 46. At the state level, Montana Conservation District Law (Section 75-7-101 through 75-7-124 MCA) was enacted to allow land users to form soil and water conservation districts. In 1945, the Flathead Conservation District was formed. Today, Montana's 58 CDs provide local citizens with an opportunity to shape resource planning in their areas.

Activities

Natural Streambed and Land Preservation Act: (75-7-101 et seq. MCA)- Any private individual or corporation that proposes to work in or near perennial streams must first apply for a permit from a conservation district.

Water Quality: CDs are responsible for nonpoint source (NPS) pollution control at the local level. Conservation districts work with federal and state agencies to identify and prioritize areas affected by NPS pollution. They also work to conduct projects that demonstrate NPS pollution control practices.

Coordinated Resource Management and Planning/Watershed Planning: CDs coordinate and/or participate in local efforts to increase the effectiveness of resource management and planning activities on private, county, state and federal land.

Education: FCD engages in educational activities with people of all ages to help them understand the value of conservation and how best to accomplish it.

Riparian Management: CDs sponsor and conduct landowner workshops, produce and distribute informational materials, and conduct demonstration projects and tours of riparian management techniques.

Urban/Suburban Activities: CDs provide soil surveys, water inventories, assistance with waste disposal, and other services to planning boards commissioners, municipal officials, schools, builders, hospitals, industries, and owners of subdivided acreages.