Local conservation directors take their concerns to Springfield for Soil and Water Legislative Day

[April 06, 2007]  SPRINGFIELD -- More than 115 conservationists from across the state gathered recently in Springfield to discuss legislation affecting conservation currently winding its way through the General Assembly. They also used the opportunity to talk with their respective senators and representatives about what effects or benefits each legislative issue might have for their constituents.

The Legislative Day event, sponsored by the Association of Illinois Soil and Water Conservation Districts, is part of the association's ongoing effort to create a continuing dialogue between local soil and water conservation districts and legislators.

Terry Davis, president of the association, spoke to the group about the importance of recognizing how precious our natural resources are and the critical need to protect what we have. "Whether we use our land for food, fuel or as a base to support energy generation is a decision that will be made based on the priorities of the time, but if we don't maintain what we have, those choices will be limited," Davis said.

Pictured are Logan County Soil and Water Conservation District representatives Steve Bracey, resource conservationist, and Doug Thompson, chairman; along with James Todd, vice president of the Association of Illinois Soil and Water Conservation Districts; and Sen. Larry Bomke.

[Text from news release received from the Logan County Soil and Water Conservation District]