A Conservation District is a legal subdivision of state government, responsible under state law for conservation work within its boundaries. Self-government is the guiding philosophy of Conservation Districts. Decisions about conservation issues are made at the local level by citizens who understand and want to protect and improve their local environment.

Pennsylvania has 66 Conservation Districts, one in each county except Philadelphia.

Each district is governed by a board of volunteer directors appointed by their local governing bodies, such as county commissioners. Conservation districts provide the departments of Environmental Protection (DEP), Agriculture (PDA) and Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) a way to implement a wide variety of environmental programs that best serve the agricultural, suburban and urban interests of their counties.

The success of Conservation Districts is due in part to their ability to successfully work with local, state and federal agencies and private organizations.
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Pennsylvania’s Conservation Districts are a model of effective government and among the most diverse, capable and active in the nation.