The Westchester County Soil and Water Conservation District has approved a new work plan that will expand programs to support local farms, protect waterways and help communities better manage environmental challenges across the County.
The plan includes 21% in additional funding from the New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets and allows the District to expand several conservation and agriculture programs and will allow the County to expand programs that help farmers stay in business, study how farmland is being used, and support urban agriculture projects. It also continues work that helps protect soil and water and adds new workshops to help communities better manage storm water and prevent flooding. These efforts will work alongside regional planning initiatives led by the Westchester County Department of Planning.
Westchester County Executive Ken Jenkins said: “Protecting our natural resources while supporting local agriculture is essential to the long-term health of Westchester County. This work plan represents an important step forward in strengthening the Soil and Water Conservation District and expanding programs that help protect our waterways, preserve farmland and educate communities about responsible land stewardship.
Westchester County Commissioner of Planning Blanca P. Lopez said: “The 2026 work plan strengthens our conservation efforts and expands the District’s impact, which is aligned with Department of Planning programs, county-wide.”
Chair of the Soil and Water Conservation District Suzanne Nolan said: “This year’s focus on farmland will help us understand the multifaceted role of agriculture in maintaining soil health, protecting water quality and providing local, nutritious food to County residents, with ecological as well as economic value considered in the face of development pressures.”
The Soil and Water Conservation District has been working with Westchester County since 1967 to protect natural resources and support responsible land use. This updated plan builds on that work and helps ensure the County continues to protect its environment while supporting local communities.