The Fountain County Soil and Water Conservation District (SWCD) is a legal subdivision of state government organized in 1943 under the Indiana Soil and Water Conservation District Law.
As members of the SWCD board, we accept the responsibility to be conscientious overseers of our natural resources. Our goals and objectives as stewards of soil and water, is to help educate landowners on conservation practices available to manage and utilize the natural resources of Fountain County wisely in order for them to be enjoyed by current and future generations to come.
Our Mission Statement is: provide leadership, education, and assistance to agricultural and urban interests in the proper use and management of soil, water, and related natural resources in Fountain County.
The District has a no-till warm season grass drill for available for rent. This Truax drill plants eight-foot wide with three grain boxes: one for grains such as Alfalfa, Clover, Timothy and legumes; one for warm season grasses; and another for grasses such as oats. It can be used to plant beans also. The drill has been used to re-plant pasture spots, wildlife food plots, warm season grasses, quail habitats, waterways and field borders. The District also has a tree planter, straw blower and earthmover for landowners to rent to assist in their conservation efforts.
Since 1986, the SWCD hosts field days at Portland Arch Nature Preserve for local fifth grade students. We have four stops along the trail where specialists in entomology, soil and water, forestry and wildlife have demonstrations for approximately 290 students. It is a wonderful place for our youth to spend time enjoying and learning about the natural and unique resources of Fountain County.
In March, the Fountain County SWCD also participates in Farm Bureau's Ag Day by doing short demonstrations for local fourth grade students at the Fountain County 4-H Fairgrounds.
During our annual meeting the SWCD recognizes the Fountain County's Conservation Farmer of the Year with a plaque. We also recognize the 4-H Soil and Water Grand Champion with a plaque for their accomplishment. We award the FFA Soil Teams "Best in County" at senior high and junior high levels and Envirothon participants with individual and team trophies.
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