Small Acreage Landowners and Conservation

Living on several acres is the fulfillment of a dream for many. With this style of living, however, comes many responsibilities for proper land management. Whether you choose to farm, manage livestock or simply preserve the open space, the Conservation District can help you understand and implement your role as a small acreage steward.

Small Farm Agriculture - Small amounts of acreage can be ideal for growing value-added specialty crops or alternative livestock ventures. farm yourself, hire it out/contract,

Livestock and Productive Pasture Land – Learn about the regulations affecting livestock owners, as well as find information on pasture improvement, management and composting.

Small Forest Landowner – A wealth of forestry information that ranges from thinning tips, disease identification, agroforestry and urban forestry to the Washington Forest Practices Rules and permitting requirements.

Protecting Your stream - As a streamside landowner, you have a particular responsibility to protect the stream running through your property. Doing so will benefit not only the stream and wildlife, but also your property.

Landowner Assistance Program - The Conservation District has a variety of programs, resources, and some funding to help landowners in the appropriate use and protection of natural resources.

Water Rights - Washington State law requires certain users of public waters to receive approval from the state prior to use of the water - in the form of a water right permit or certificate. The Washington State Department of Ecology maintains a comprehensive website on water law and water rights in Washington State.

Noxious Weeds - Noxious weeds are non-native plants whose aggressive growth and lack of natural enemies makes them highly destructive to crop yields, native plant and animal habitat, livestock, water quality and they can also lower land values. Landowners share in the responsibility to control noxious weeds. The Spokane County Noxious Weed Board provides, education, notification, technical assistance and control of noxious weeds through voluntary compliance and enforcement.

Soil and water Testing – Soils and water testing are key elements in successful land management no matter how you are using your property. Learn where to get your soil and water tested.

Burning Regulations - The Spokane Regional Clean Air Agency regulates outdoor burning in Spokane County. Visit their website to learn who can burn, what can be burned, when burning can occur and whether a permit is required.

Fire Protection - Do you live in a forested area? Learn how to protect your home from wildfires with the assistance of FireSafe Spokane. Or take advantage of the Conservation District's new free Fire Risk Assessment Program.

Creating Wildlife Habitat – For many, the benefit of living on acreage is to enjoy the native wildlife. Several resources are available to assist you preserving or creating a place for wildlife on your land.

Landscaping with Native Plants - Using native plants makes good sense. They are hardy in our climate, can be easier to maintain, are often drought tolerant and attract wildlife.

Wildlife HELP! – Tips on dealing with wildlife when it gets too close.

Conservation in the Home - There are numerous opportunities to conserve natural resources in and around your home. Find tips and technologies to help you conserve water, save energy, and prevent pollution.

Reduce, Reuse, Recycle A link to the Spokane Regional Solid Waste System website, featuring information on waste reduction, recycling, handling hazardous wastes and composting.

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