Conservation districts across the country have specialized in the reduction of non-point sources of pollution such as soil erosion, animal waste,
pesticides and fertilizers, poorly operating septic systems, and household hazardous wastes since the dust bowl of the 1930's.
While the devastation of soil erosion by wind gave birth to the first Conservation Districts, agricultural impacts, increased development and
urban sprawl have all challenged the Districts to take the lead in protecting natural resources through educating the public and providing technical assistance.
In Bristol & Newport Counties, the Eastern Rhode Island Conservation District works in partnership with private land owners, farmers,
municipalities, state and federal agencies, as well as non-governmental agencies. ERICD is not a regulatory or enforcement agency, but rather
provides assistance to those who desire to work as a team to face issues -- watershed by watershed.
