Governor Bruce Rauner has released only $5 million of the allotted $13.5 million for local soil and water conservation districts. Christian County Soil and Water Conservation District Administrative Coordinator Sue Davis says it continues a pattern of diminishing funds for these local entities.
Davis says funds have been slashed considerably since their heyday about 10 years ago.
Since 2008, Davis has been the only employee at the Christian County Soil & Water Conservation District. She says it has also hurt their ability to help farmers with cost-share funds for projects.
Davis encourages farmers and residents to reach out to elected officials to make sure they understand the importance of soil and water conservation districts.