Virginia Association of Soil and Water Conservation Districts

The Virginia Association of Soil and Water Conservation Districts (VASWCD) is a private nonprofit association of 47 soil and water conservation districts in Virginia and is classified accordingly as a 501(c)(5). It is a voluntary, nongovernmental association of Virginia’s districts. The VASWCD’s voting members are all elected and appointed directors. SWCDs were established in the 1930’s as political subdivisions of the state in response to the pressing need for the conservation of our natural resources in the Commonwealth. Each local SWCD is directed by a board of elected and appointed directors who are elected in general elections and serve four year terms. The VASWCD is governed by a 12-member board, all of whom must also be Directors. A President, 1st Vice President, Past President, Secretary/Treasurer and representative to the National Association of Conservation Districts (NACD) constitute the executive committee and are empowered to act on behalf of the board between meetings. The state of Virginia is divided into six geographic areas. SWCD directors within each area annually elect two directors to serve as Area Chair and Area Vice Chair. The Area Chair serves on the VASWCD Board and represents his/her respective SWCDs. MISSION The mission of the Virginia Association of Soil and Water Conservation Districts and its Foundation is to provide and promote leadership in the conservation of natural resources through stewardship and education programs. The VASWCD and its Foundation coordinates conservation efforts statewide to focus effectively on issues identified by local member districts. VISION The VASWCD will be an effective, independent voice in Virginia’s conservation partnership supporting the missions of Soil and Water Conservation Districts by providing leadership and training, improving communication, promoting financial independence, and providing cohesive representation to legislative bodies on natural resource issues.