The Knox County SWCD has the privileged of working with Knox County’s farmers and landowners to insure the wise use of our natural resources. Over the past year we engaged in a number of projects and programs to promote good stewardship.
Regional Conservation Partnership Program – We partnered with NRCS and ten other SWCDs in southwest Indiana to promote the use of soil health practices on reclaimed mined lands. This five year RCPP project will provide cost share for soil health practices on reclaimed mined lands, some of which have not been eligible for cost share in the past.
Cooperative Weed Management Area – The Knox County CWMA has been actively promoting the control of invasive plant species through educational events, field days, media stories, and one-on-one interaction with land owners. The CWMA meets monthly and its membership has grown steadily. The County Council provided funding for us to hire a resource specialist for invasive species, and this position coordinates the work of the CWMA.
Fox Ridge Nature Park – We partnered with the Knox County Parks and Recreation Department to secure funds for the purchase and development of Fox Ridge Nature Park. The new ninety five acre park will feature native trees and shrubs, wildflower meadows, and ponds along its three miles of paved trails.
Partnerships – We have partnered with several organizations to promote stewardship and get conservation practices installed. Our partners include: The Vincennes YMCA, Vincennes University, the Knox County Community Foundation, The Nature Conservancy, Vincennes Water Utilities, The Original Company, the Knox County Fair Board, and various agencies of Knox County government.