WISCONSIN BLUE BOOK


ment and a farm member (appointed by the Governor) represent-
ing farmers co-operating in county soil and water conservation
districts. An additional member is designated, upon invitation of
the committee, by the U.S. Secretary of Agriculture. In 1961 the
Legislature changed the name of the committee to "State Soil and
Water Conservation Committee."
   Under Chapter 92, Wisconsin Statutes, it is the declared policy
of the Legislature to provide for the conservation of the soil and
soil resources of this state; for the control and prevention of soil
erosion; for the prevention of floodwater and sediment damages;
for furthering agricultural phases of the conservation, develop-
ment, utilization, and control of water; thereby to preserve natural
resources, control floods, prevent impairment of dams and reser-
voirs; assist in maintaining the navigability of rivers and harbors;
preserve wildlife; protect the tax base; protect public lands; and
protect and promote the health, safety, and general welfare of
the people of this state.
  To carry out this policy, the committee has promoted and es-
tablished the organization of county soil and water conservation
districts. The county soil and water conservation district is the
local administrative unit of programs of soil and water conserva-
tion. Through these districts the policy of the Legislature to pro-
vide for the conservation of soil and water resources is put into
action. All of the 71 counties of the state existing in 1960 have
organized into soil and water conservation districts. In 1961,
Menominee County was created from parts of Shawano and Oconto
counties. Menominee County continues to be served through the
Shawano County soil and water conservation district. Menominee
County will be established as a separate district at the time and
pleasure of the people of this newly formed county.
  Functions. The State Soil and Water Conservation Committee:
  1. Promotes the creation and provides for the servicing of or-
     ganized soil and water conservation districts.
  2. Secures the co-operation and assistance of state and federal
     governmental agencies concerned with soil and water con-
     servation.
  3. Provides such assistance as may be helpful and appropriate
     to the several districts in giving guidance to landowners and
     operators and helps in applying soil and water conservation
     practices to the land.
  4. Provides appropriate legal counsel to the governing bodies
     of local districts in co-operation with the Attorney General's
     Office.
  5. Approves and co-ordinates the programs and projects of the
     several soil and water conservation districts.
  6. Assists districts individually  and   collectively in securing
     group and community action in combating soil erosion and
     flood damages (watershed program).


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