Newhouse, Lucas, Daines offer bipartisan, bicameral resolution honoring conservation districts

U.S. Reps. Dan Newhouse (R-WA) and Frank Lucas (R-OK) joined U.S. Sen. Steve Daines (R-MT) to unveil a bipartisan, bicameral resolution to recognize and celebrate the 75th anniversary of the National Association of Conservation Districts and their commitment to America’s lands.

“In rural America and across the United States, we recognize the need for voluntary, locally led conservation leadership,” said Rep. Newhouse, chairman of the Congressional Western Caucus. “For 75 years, conservation districts have answered that call, working with states, local land managers, tribes, and other partners to ensure responsible management of our lands, waters, and wildlife.”

Rep. Newhouse on Sept. 14 sponsored House Resolution 641 with 30 original cosponsors, including Rep. Lucas. Sen. Daines will introduce the companion resolution in his chamber.

“For 75 years, the National Association of Conservation Districts (NACD) has successfully led efforts to bring together diverse groups from farmers and ranchers to energy workers to promote commonsense conservation,” said Sen. Daines, chairman of the Senate Western Caucus. “In Montana, our conservation districts played a crucial role in the voluntary, proactive sage grouse conservation that aided in the species recovery, preventing the bird from becoming endangered.”

Rep. Newhouse added that the resolution “indicates both our strong support for NACD’s continued mission and a commitment to lifting up the efforts of local districts and conservationists throughout the communities we represent.”

“For 75 years, local, voluntary conservation efforts led by the National Association of Conservation Districts have provided for the conservation of our communities’ natural resources, enabled farmers and ranchers to revitalize millions of acres of farmland, and promoted responsible solutions to mitigate the impact of climate change,” Rep. Lucas said. “I’m proud to support the mission of the National Association of Conservation Districts.”

Conservation districts continue to assist farmers and ranchers and also support a larger segment of the public, including community planners, public health officials, developers, and rural and urban citizens, according to information provided by the lawmakers. 

They also provide a variety of education materials and opportunities for students, the information says.