Ottawa county Conservation district
Working with landowners, producers, and communities to conserve natural resources and build a healthier future for Ottawa County.
Conservation for Ottawa County
Helping landowners, producers, and communities improve the ecological and economic future of Ottawa County through conservation programs, technical guidance, education, and responsible stewardship.
The Ottawa County Conservation District works alongside landowners, producers, community members, and conservation partners to provide practical guidance, educational opportunities, and resources that support healthy soils and resilient working lands.
Our Mission
To improve the ecological and economic outcome of all citizens of Ottawa County through education and the promotion of soil regeneration.
Educational Opportunities
Education is at the heart of conservation. OCCD provides opportunities for people of all ages to learn about soil health, natural resources, and conservation practices they can put into action.
- Workshops & Field Days
- Annual NACD Poster Contest
- Community Education
Technical Assistance
You don't have to navigate conservation decisions alone. OCCD works alongside the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) and other partners to connect Ottawa County landowners and producers with technical expertise and conservation planning assistance.
- Conservation planning
- Technical guidance
- Connection to NRCS & partners
Resources & Cost Share
Practical resources and financial assistance can help landowners and producers put conservation practices into action.
Cost Share
Resources
Cost Share
OCCD offers cost-share opportunities to support eligible conservation practices. The official application period is April 1–30 each year, with applications accepted year-round.
Resources
Find equipment rentals, order forms, conservation guides, helpful organizations, and other tools for landowners and community members.
Land Stewardship
Caring for the land today shapes what we leave for tomorrow.
Land stewardship is about understanding the impact our decisions have on the soil, water, wildlife, working lands, and communities that depend on them. It's also about legacy—caring for the land in ways that allow future generations to continue benefiting from it.
Kansas history offers a powerful reminder of why that responsibility matters. The Dust Bowl demonstrated what can happen when vulnerable soils and challenging conditions collide. Today, our understanding of soil health continues to grow, giving landowners and producers more tools to protect the land while supporting its ecological and economic productivity.
Land & Legacy Resources
Land & Soil Health Resources
Do the best you can until you know better. Then when you know better, do better.
Maya Angelou
Meet the Board
Pictured left to right: Doug Plummer, Treasurer · Elizabeth Schrandt, Board Member · Levi Ebert, Vice Chairman · Tyrel Owens, Chairman · Brody Buzzard, Board Member.
Your District Manager
Shannon Myer
Shannon has been with the district since May 2023. She has a B.S. in Natural Resources Management with a concentration in Plant, Animal & Soil Sciences from the University of Alaska Fairbanks. She loves sharing nature and conservation with students of all ages. Working for the district is the perfect job for her because there are interesting opportunities each day and it’s never boring! She is easily distracted by books, bugs, insects, spiders and flowers.
Ready to get involved?
Whether you're looking for conservation assistance, educational opportunities, or upcoming events, we're here to help.