Dubuque Soil & Water Conservation district
RESOURCES
History
Soil and Water Conservation Districts (SWCD) were formed across the nation during the Dust Bowl to connect landowners with resources for conservation with the focus on soil erosion.
Dubuque County SWCD was organized at the request of local citizens interested in soil and water conservation. A charter was issued under the provisions of the Soil Conservation Districts' Law, Code of Iowa, Chapter 467A, on March 26, 1945. This year, 2025, marks our 80th year as a SWCD
The District is a subdivision of state government, governed by five District Commissioners who are elected at the general elections on a nonpartisan basis for four-year terms. District Commissioners are volunteer conservation promoters who are charge by the Iowa General Assembly with the restoration and conservation of the soil, water, and related natural resources of the county. Assistant Commissioners can be appointed by the SWCD Board to help implement District activities.
With assistance from USDA Natural Resources Conservation Services (NRCS) and Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship-Division of Soils (IDALS-DSL), Commissioners address the natural resources that are the most critical for their districts.
The services the conservation district provides are customized to suit the needs of local communities, properties, and the environment.
We offer grants and either free or low-cost services to help you to take actions that benefit our water, soil, air, landscapes, and habitats.
Become A Soil and Water Conservation District Commissioner
If you are interested in becoming an assistant commissioner, please contact us or attend a monthly meeting to learn more about these opportunities!
Pictured Left to Right: Mike Freiburger, Dennis Rauen,
Back Row: Jeff Schmitt, Ken Behnke, Wayne Demmer
More Photos
The Waters We Conserve
Address:
210 Bierman Rd
Epworth, IA 52045
Contact:
helen.backes@ia.nacdnet.net
563-876-3418 ext. 3