About

Who We Are and What We Do

The Erie County Conservation District (ECCD) was established in 1949 by farmers in response to then-current unsustainable farming practices. The goal was to create an organization that promoted environmentally sound, sustainable agriculture. Today, the Conservation District services have expanded to include not only agriculture, but also waterway conservation, Best Management Practices for construction, and environmental education for all ages. Our highly trained staff is available to assist residents of Erie County and beyond in their goal to discover and follow ways to wisely use our land and water resources.

Our mission is to set an example and provide assistance to citizens in Erie County for wise use, management, and development of our natural resources by addressing conservation issues through education and outreach.

Each conservation district in Pennsylvania is governed by a volunteer board of directors. ECCD has seven directors from throughout Erie County. Six of the directors are nominated by county wide organizations that have a direct interest in the conservation and wise use of the counties natural resources. The seventh director is the county executive.

ECCD is a natural link between local, state and federal entities. Outstanding partnerships have been formed between resource people, educators, local government and concerned citizens. It is our philosophy to use a voluntary approach to solve natural resource problems. Our continued emphasis has been placed on problem-solving through cooperation.