Soil Conservation District
URBAN SEDIMENT CONTROL PROGRAM
AGRICULTURAL SOIL & WATER QUALITY PROGRAMS
|
|
The Prince George’s Soil Conservation District (PGSCD) is an
independent political subdivision of the State. The national
conservation movement started in the 1930’s in response to the Dust Bowl
with PGSCD being established April 7, 1941. The District was initially
created and continues to assist the farming community in saving valuable
topsoil with the installation of best management practices.
The District is governed by a five member Board of Supervisors with four members appointed by the State and one by the County. Districts operate under state law and regulations. By law, each Board of Supervisors is responsible for carrying out a soil and water conservation program within the boundaries of the District. In Maryland there are 24 districts covering the State’s 23 counties. The District receives staff and funding from the following: Federal-USDA Natural Resource Conservation Service, and Farm Services Agency; State-Maryland Department of Agriculture; and Prince George’s County.
In 1970 the State passed sediment control laws to minimize the effect of sediment pollution from development sites to the Chesapeake Bay and it’s tributaries. The District expanded its traditional programs to include urban lands. The same soil conservation best management practices used on agricultural properties are adapted and are used on urban properties. Additional expansion to the District programs includes: small pond safety approval, and technical assistance to landowners.
