Wilkes Soil and Water Conservation District

09/14/2026

https://www.journalpatriot.com/news/over-2-23m-in-bmps-provided-in-2025-26/article_95dfe75b-4517-53eb-9857-72b6299d8cf0.html

The Wilkes Soil & Water Conservation District (SWCD) released its 2025–26 Annual Report, highlighting a year of natural resource investments, farmer support, watershed restoration and environmental education across Wilkes County.

09/10/2026

09/10/2026

09/09/2026

09/08/2026

We're back on the road again for the new 26-27 year and starting out in Ashe County at their 5th Grade Conservation Field Days.

09/03/2026

School is back in session and our Education Specialist, Julia Hardy, is already busy with student programs for the new school year. This is a great way to start the 26-27 year of lessons and programs!

If you would like to schedule a lesson or program check out our interactive scheduling calendar on our website: wilkesswcd.org/education

09/02/2026

🎓 2027 Scholarship Applications Are OPEN!

The Wilkes Soil & Water Conservation District is offering a $1,000 scholarship to Wilkes County resident high school seniors and current college students pursuing a degree in Agriculture, Natural Resources, Environmental Sciences, or a related field.

📅 Apply by January 29, 2027
🔗 Apply now: wilkesswcd.org/scholarship

Help us support the next generation of conservation and agriculture leaders!

08/31/2026

Check out this brief clip from a pasture exclusion project we just wrapped up!

By fencing livestock out of streams and providing alternative watering sources, projects like this play a huge role in protecting local water quality, preventing bank erosion, and keeping livestock healthy.

We love seeing win-win solutions that support our local farms and farmers while protecting our natural resources. Huge thanks to the NC Foundation for Soil & Water Conservation, the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF), and NC 319 Grant Program for funding this work and making a direct impact in our community.

08/26/2026

08/25/2026

Join us in congratulating Tim Baumgartner on his recent promotion to Director of our Soil and Water Conservation Division! 🎉

Following the retirement of former director David Williams, N.C. Agriculture Commissioner Steve Troxler appointed Baumgartner due to his decades of experience in the field. Throughout his career, Tim has held various positions with the NCDA&CS and DEQ as well as private sector consulting, including as director of the Division of Mitigation Services, deputy director of operations for the Division of Mitigation Services, environmental senior scientist, environmental scientist and environmental supervisor. Congratulations!