Southern Conservation DistrictDistrict News Archive

Congratulations to the Richmond Family Farm, our 2025 Bicentennial Farm Award Recipient!
The Southern Conservation District proudly recognizes the Richmond family for over two centuries of dedication to agriculture, conservation, and community. Your legacy of hard work and stewardship stands as a shining example of what it means to care for the land and preserve it for future generations. Thank you for your continued commitment to West Virginia’s farming heritage and the conservation values that sustain it — Southern Conservation District

Congratulations to our 2025 Non-Traditional Farm Award Winner!
The Southern Conservation District proudly celebrates your dedication to advancing creative and sustainable approaches to agriculture. Your innovative practices highlight the diverse ways farmers are strengthening conservation efforts across our region. Thank you for your leadership and commitment to protecting our natural resources while paving the way for the future of farming in West Virginia — Southern Conservation District

The Southern Conservation District proudly recognizes this year’s Traditional and Non-Traditional Farm Award winners! Your hard work, innovation, and dedication to conservation continue to make a lasting impact on agriculture and our local communities. Thank you for your leadership in promoting sustainable farming practices and being outstanding stewards of the land — Southern Conservation District

West Virginia farmers who are experiencing hardships due to drought conditions may be eligible to receive cost-share funding to help with farm-related drought recovery. This funding is available through the West Virginia Conservation Agency's Agricultural Enhancement Exigency Program, administered by local conservation districts. The assistance, which can cover up to a 50% cost-share reimbursement (not to exceed $500 per practice), helps farmers recover a portion of their out-of-pocket costs. Covered practices may include: Livestock Water Supply, Temporary Fencing, Cover Crop Establishment, Revegetation of Feeding Areas and Irrigation Water Supply. 

As of September 18, all conservation districts in the state are eligible because every district included at least one county in the "D1" (moderate drought) or higher classification.

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West Virginians experiencing hardship due to ongoing drought conditions are eligible to receive cost-share funding to help with farm-related drought recovery through their local conservation districts. These cost-share reimbursements are designed to help farmers recover a portion of their out-of-pocket costs for items like temporary fence, livestock water supplies, re-vegetation of feeding areas, cover crop establishment, and irrigation water supply. To find out more and to determine which exigency practices are included in your district, residents should contact the Administrative/Conservation Specialist at the specific conservation district where they are experiencing drought. For any questions, comments or concerns, please contact +1 (304) 253-0261. 

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For any questions, comments or concerns, please contact Jesus Nandi, M-F 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM @ +1 (304) 254-6828

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The Southern Conservation District (SCD) has announced the application period for its Agricultural Enhancement Cost-Share Program, running from June 2nd to June 13th, 2025. Landowners interested in cost-share assistance for practices like lime, fencing, livestock water systems, heavy use area protection, pond clean out, or high tunnel soil health must apply in person at the SCD office in Beckley during this period. Please note specific requirements, such as soil tests or FSA maps, may apply depending on the practice. Contact the Conservation Specialist at 304-807-5257 for details.

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