Partnerships with Conservation Districts are essential to ensuring local control and effective implementation of the Agriculture Conservation Assistance Program (ACAP). These collaborations leverage the districts' on-the-ground knowledge and trusted relationships with farmers, enabling tailored conservation practices that address unique regional needs while maximizing environmental and agricultural benefits.
Wyoming County Conservation District hosted a pasture walk to discuss rotational grazing, fencing design, grazing summer annuals, and how ACAP can aid farmers in improving their grazing practices.
Tioga County Conservation District hosted a legislative breakfast for local and state officials to highlight the district's accomplishments and ACAP projects.
The Warren County Conservation District constructed a float to participate in the Russell Parade on May 24, 2025 to promote the ACAP program to the public.
Berks County Conservation District hosted a Legislative Breakfast at a local mushroom operation, providing an opportunity to showcase the results of collaborative efforts between multiple agencies and funding sources. The breakfast featured an overview of the project's scope and impact, as well as remarks of support from attending legislators.
Juniata County Conservation District hosted a Women in Agriculture meeting with speakers from partnering agencies such as NRCS, HRG, and more. Topics discussed included funding conservation practices through partnerships (pairing NRCS EQIP funds with ACAP funds).
Allegheny County Conservation District hosted an ACAP project spotlight field day for other districts, public, farmers, additional agencies. ACCD staff highlighted how programs, funding, and landowner-driven initiatives can enhance farmland health and build ecological resilience.
PACE
Partners in Ag Conservation Excellence (PACE) was established in Oct 2023 after the signing of an MOU between the SCC, Penn State, and USDA-NRCS. These partners are committed to providing the best support possible to ag conservation efforts in Pennsylvania, in a collaborative and coordinated way. The group meets quarterly to discuss emerging opportunities in training and technical assistance, as well as cohesive implementation of jointly funded ACAP and EQIP projects.
Ag Conservation Education Collaborative: DEP, SCC, PACD, SCC, and Penn State meet every two months to discuss educational offerings and opportunities to the ag conservation professional community. We recognize that all of our organizations have similar audiences or similar training needs. Through intentional partnerships, we can increase our effectiveness and decrease unnecessary burdens on county conservation district staff and other ag conservation professionals seeking to advance their careers.
