Funding Basics
The funds for conservation work come from a variety of sources. While conservation districts are local units of government, their funding is a mixture of local, state, federal and private funding. The exact funding structure varies from district to district and state to state. Below, you can explore common funding sources.
Conservation benefits local economies, land and water resources. For this reason, many districts are supported by funds from the following:
- Special assessments or mill levies
- Local property taxes
- Appropriations from county budgets
Many districts are partially funded at the state level. These funds often flow through the state level office or a state agency such as the Department of Agriculture or Natural Resources. Examples of funding could include:
- Dollar for dollar matching funds from the state to match local investments
- State program funds distributed to districts for implementation at the local level
- Appropriations from state department budgets
Federal funds are utilized at the local level to assist with program delivery, support district staff with technical assistance funding and through competitive grants. Examples include:
- Farm Bill funding for programs such as EQIP, CSP and CRP
- Technical Assistance funding for district staff to work with landowners
- Project-specific grants from agencies such as the EPA, USDA, or US Fish and Wildlife Service
Conservation districts often supplement their budgets through competitive grants and private donations. These funds can support local projects, education, outreach, or innovation that may fall outside traditional funding sources. Examples include:
- Grants from private foundations or conservation nonprofits, such as Ducks Unlimited or The Nature Conservancy
- Sponsorships for events, education programs, or demonstration projects from corporations, local businesses, or nonprofit organizations
Many districts organize tree sales, educational workshops, conservation tours, or annual banquets that generate discretionary funds for outreach and education.