On Friday May 1st, The McKean County Conservation District recently hosted its annual Legislative Luncheon, bringing together local, state, and federal representatives with conservation partners, agricultural leaders, and community stakeholders to discuss key natural resource priorities and initiatives.

The luncheon provided an opportunity for open dialogue on conservation efforts across McKean County, including soil and water conservation programs, watershed protection, agricultural best management practices, and environmental education initiatives. The event briefly highlighted previous accomplishes but mostly focused on 2026 goals and projects bringing to light the need for a funding increase across the board for County Conservation Districts.

District staff highlighted ongoing projects and shared updates on how conservation programs are supporting landowners, farmers, and municipalities throughout the county. Adam Causer, Watershed Specialist for the McKean County Conservation District discussed stream bank restoration projects, ACAP projects, and how he supports those programs with additional state grant money, like PA DEPs Growing Greener Grant.

Lindsay Trojanowski, Resource Conservationist, discussed the PA Dirt Gravel and Low Volume Road program. Lindsay explained the efficiency of the program and how it can not only improve our local roadways, reduce roadway hazards, and have major savings long-term. However, with a fixed annual allocation, the limited funding has created a large backlog of local road projects that need fixed immediately. Katelynn Decker, Conservation Technician discussed the increase in permitting and large-scale projects within McKean County.

Sandy Thompson, District Manager for the McKean County Conservation District, broke down the District’s funding, income, and resources that help the District function at the capacity it does. She also discussed the District’s extensive education program for the youth and adults of McKean County.

Attendees engaged in discussions with District staff on current environmental challenges, including funding for conservation programs, infrastructure needs, and strategies to protect water quality and natural habitats for future generations. After presentations from the McKean County Conservation District staff the event switched gears and moved into a Farmers Panel. Four local McKean County farmers made up the panel and discussed their operation, what practices were funded on their property, and how it has helped them not only become more efficient farmers, but more environmentally conscious farmers.

The farmers gave information on their local operations, described how the practices are/will help them in the daily operations of their farm, and answered questions from the audience. The event ended with District Board Member, Cliff Lanes highlighted Conservation Districts and the challenges they face at the National Level. “Events like the Legislative Luncheon allow us to connect directly with decision-makers and showcase the importance of conservation work at the local level,” said a District Manager, Sandy Thompson. “Strong partnerships are essential to sustaining the natural resources that support our communities and economy.”