Conservation News

A new Michigan handbook developed through the USDA Transition to Organic Partnership Program (TOPP) helps prospective Technical Service Providers (TSPs) navigate the certification process for developing NRCS Conservation Plan Supporting Organic Transition (CPA 138) plans, while also providing a helpful starting point for individuals interested in becoming TSPs in other conservation areas.

The WCCD has a transplanter that can plant up to 300 seedlings / hour! Soil conditions in fall are often the best for tree survival. The transplanter is on a trailer with a license plate allows easier transport on roads.

Michigan has an estimated 1.3 million septic systems serving roughly half of its population, and over 20% of them may be failing. Michigan is the only state lacking a statewide code regulating septic systems.

SepticSmart Week aims to encourage homeowners to properly use and maintain their systems. WCCD staff are currently working on an education project aiming to educate residents of the Ottawa-Stony North Watershed on how to reduce pollution risks from their septic systems.

Want to give your input on the work we do at WCCD? Want to help shape the direction of our Farmer Programs and conservation within the county? Then volunteer and join WCCD’s Farmer Committee. For over 78 years WCCD has been working with county landowners and producers in conserving our natural resources and farmers have been as a part of our leadership every step of the way.

In August 2026, the Washtenaw County Conservation District hosted an expanded field day, focused on regenerative farming practices. The event focused on soil health, and encouraged networking, education, and peer to peer conversations.

At the end of August, the Washtenaw County Conservation District worked alongside LongSnouts, JLW CISMA, and Washtenaw County Parks and Recreation Commission for a workshop dedicated to combating the invasive Spotted Lanternfly. Participants witnessed a scent dog demonstration and discussed identification, ecology, and management of this destructive pest and its preferred host, the Tree of Heaven.

Joy brings more than 20 years of public sector and nonprofit leadership experience, most recently as Chief Mission Officer at Austin Parks Foundation, and relocated to Washtenaw County to be closer to family.

A new project to address water quality is here and being implemented.

Ten first-generation farmers (those who did not grow up on or inherit a family farm) will be matched with experienced mentors for one-on-one guidance tailored to their farming goals. Learn more and apply!