Conservation for Farmers And Ranchers

The Spokane County Conservation District has been helping farmers and ranchers with their conservation and agricultural needs for over 30 years. The District continues to offer low interest ag loan programs, soil advice, forestry suggestions and watershed expertise.

Production Ag Program The Production Ag Program is working with producers in Spokane County to maximize profits while maintaining environmentally friendly farm practices. Each Production Ag program provides a unique form of assistance to producers in the county for maintaining certain conservation practices on their farms and ranches.
Low interest Loans - Low interest loans are available through the State Revolving Funds (SRF) loan program. Funds can be used to purchase conservation tillage and direct seeding equipment, and to implement straw removal alternatives.	Livestock and Productive Pasture Land – Learn about the regulations affecting livestock owners, as well as find information on pasture improvement, management and composting.
Oilseed Crops and Biodiesel - Oilseed crops, such as canola and mustard, can be used to create biodiesel - a nontoxic, biodegradable replacement for petroleum diesel. The SCCD is coordinating the efforts of several public agencies, private industry and agricultural producers to develop the oilseed and biodiesel industries in Eastern Washington. These efforts include the production of agricultural feedstocks, building oilseed processing facilities, developing biodiesel processing plants, and increasing demand for the fuel.	Landowner Assistance Program - Information and resources to assist landowners in implementing conservation measures to benefit them and the environment.
	Developing a Conservation Plan - A conservation plan is a written record of your management decisions and the conservation practices you plan to use and maintain on your farm. Learn how to develop one for your property.

Other Useful Information

Water Rights - Washington State law requires certain users of public waters to receive approval from the state prior to use of the water - in the form of a water right permit or certificate. The Washington State Department of Ecology maintains a comprehensive website on water law and water rights in Washington State.

Noxious Weeds - Noxious weeds are non-native plants whose aggressive growth and lack of natural enemies makes them highly destructive to crop yields, native plant and animal habitat, livestock, water quality and they can also lower land values. Landowners share in the responsibility to control noxious weeds. The Spokane County Noxious Weed Board provides, education, notification, technical assistance and control of noxious weeds through voluntary compliance and enforcement.

Soil and Water Testing – Soils and water testing are key elements in successful land management no matter how you are using your property. Learn where to get your soil and water tested.

Burning Regulations - The Spokane Regional Clean Air Agency regulates outdoor burning in Spokane County. Visit their website to learn who can burn, what can be burned, when burning can occur and whether a permit is required.

Spokane Ag Expo - Through participation in trade shows like Spokane Ag Expo the SCCD remains a helpful liaison between farm and public.

Natural Resources Conservation Service The Natural Resources Conservation Service provides a variety of assistance and technical information to farmers and ranchers.

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