What do conservation districts do?
Conservation districts are non-regulatory units of local government that empower their communities to make lasting environmental impacts. Benzie Conservation District's purpose is to bring experts, funding, and educational opportunities into our county to meet landowner and community goals.
We regularly seek input from our community via a conservation needs assessment that helps identify natural resource concerns throughout the county. A few ways we address these needs include:
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Our mission is to preserve and enhance the natural resources of Benzie County.
We at Benzie Conservation District envision a future where residents and visitors of Benzie County are empowered and actively engaged in conserving our natural resources. We recognize and respect the importance of tradition and cultural heritage and strive to find a balance where environmental sustainability enhances our way of life. Individuals are inspired and well-informed to make choices that reflect deep care for the environment. Natural resource education is seamlessly accessible, driven by collaborative outreach and a robust network of conservation resources and partners. Our collective actions ensure a thriving and resilient home for generations to come.
History
Conservation Districts were formed in response to the Dust Bowl, when the need for more careful natural resource management was devastatingly apparent. Benzie Conservation District was certified as a local unit of state government on June 15, 1944. It was organized by concerned landowners within Benzie County as a locally controlled resource management agency, under provisions of the Soil Conservation District Law, Act 297, P.A. 1937, as amended. This law is now part of the State Compiled Environmental Code, Part 93, Act 451 of 1994 as amended. Among our first directors were Allen Graham, Donald Gray, Ellsworth Esch, and Lloyd Nugent.
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Dean Haugen, Eric Johnson, and Steven Utic pose by our District sign, October 1, 1979.
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Our strategic focus areas and visions
WATER
All water, seen and unseen, is recognized as a vital part of life in Benzie County. The Benzie Conservation District is a leader and facilitator, empowering residents and visitors to be active stewards of our water resources. |
EDUCATION
The Benzie Conservation District is a trusted resource for accessible, impactful education that empowers our community to protect natural resources for a better tomorrow. |
LAND
The health of Benzie's terrestrial ecosystems and agricultural land is celebrated and protected by all stakeholders. People understand the complex connections between our land, water, and air and proactively steward these resources. |
Stay informed
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