National Association of Conservation Districts

News Release

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONSERVATION LEADERS SHAPE NATIONAL POLICY AT SUMMER MEETING

WASHINGTON, D.C.—July 23, 2010—Communicating policy initiatives, expanding grassroots organization and connecting with influential agriculture leaders were the goals of the National Association of Conservation District's (NACD) 2010 Legislative Conference.

Conservation leaders from across the country gathered in Washington, D.C. this week to discuss legislative initiatives and regulatory programs that affect our nation's land, air and water.

The Conference, held July 17-21, featured leading experts from several federal agencies, including U.S. Department of Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack. Vilsack spoke about the importance of strengthening the American agricultural economy, revitalizing rural communities, protecting and conserving natural resources and providing a safe, sufficient and nutritious food supply for the country. Vilsack commended NACD’s conservation efforts as he emphasized the importance of agriculture and conservation work. Today’s farmers are responsible for feeding more than 100 Americans, Vilsack said.

“With the 2012 Farm Bill approaching, now is the time for conservation districts to move to the forefront of our national conversation,” Vilsack said. “These resources are indispensible.”

Conference attendees also heard from David White, Chief of the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS); Jonathan Coppess, Administrator of the Farm Service Agency; representatives from the House and Senate Agriculture Committees, climate change experts and members of Congress.

The conference addressed current issues in conservation and agriculture, with panels of experts delivering updates on topics including forestry, climate change and water issues.

“Our summer meeting is critical for members,” said NACD President Steve Robinson. “Our conference informs our national association about their priority policy concerns and strengthens relationships with members of congress. We were pleased with the turnout and with the enthusiastic participation of our members.”

District leaders also carried those messages to Capitol Hill, meeting with representatives in Congress to discuss conservation policy issues. Click here for additional conference details.

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The National Association of Conservation Districts is the non-profit organization that represents the nation's 3,000 conservation districts and 17,000 men and women who serve on their governing boards. For almost 70 years, local conservation districts have worked with cooperating landowners and managers of private working lands to help them plan and apply effective conservation practices. NACD's website is at www.nacdnet.org.