Michigan’s 75 Conservation Districts (CDs) are the local providers of Natural Resource management services -- similar to your local fire, police, health, and school services. We're also your neighbors, dedicated to helping our fellow Michiganders conserve their lands and waterways so our environment can be as clean, healthy, and economically robust as possible. Created by the USDA in response to the 1930s Dust Bowl, Conservation Districts (CDs) are local units of government that utilize state, federal and private sector resources to solve today's conservation challenges. Because best conservation practices vary widely depending on the region they're practiced, Conservation Districts were formed so that decisions on conservation issues could be made at the local level, by local people, with additional technical assistance provided by government-affiliated organizations. Conservation District staff and technicians work hand-in-hand with local, state and federal organizations to roll out voluntary programs that directly assist and impact the environmental quality of the communities that make up our incredibly unique peninsulas. Explore our CORE 6 resources listed below to learn how Conservation Districts represent, assist and protect the future of your community's Natural Resources today. WATERWe take being the “Great Lakes State” seriously. Districts support healthy lakes, wetlands, and waterways, working with people on best land management practices to protect our precious freshwater resources. WATERSOILSAmerica's conservation movement is literally rooted in soil health. Without healthy and stable soils, food supplies tumble and ecosystems crash. Our Conservation Districts dig deep to help local farmers cultivate their best soil possible. SOILSFORESTSMichigan’s forests are one of a kind, with incredible diversity and amazing history. Local Conservation Districts help forest landowners cultivate sustainable management and quality habitat for their forested lands. FORESTSWILDLIFEMichigan's prairies, wetlands, forests, and waterways teem with varied wildlife. Conservation Districts help protect, preserve and restore regional wildlife habitat of the furry, feathered and finned for generations to come. WildlifeFARMSMichigan farmers are major food producers for the United States and beyond. Our Districts are on the front lines rolling out national Farm Bill initiatives and cutting-edge agricultural support, all tailored to regional farming needs and best practices. FARMSDUNESOur State is home to some of the most spectacular -- and fragile -- coastal sand dunes in the world. Educating and advocating for Michigan's Critical Dunes is a key tenet for our coastal Districts. dunes |