Voluntary Stewardship Program to be Introduced in upcoming public meetings

The Voluntary Stewardship Program (VSP) is starting up in Wahkiakum County, and community members are invited to attend an informational meeting to learn more. The meetings will include an introductory presentation on VSP and time for audience questions and answers (Q&A).

There will be two identical meetings offered in the county. Those who are interested are encouraged to select and attend one. The first takes place from 5:30-7 p.m. at the Skamokawa Grange (18 Fairgrounds Rd., Skamokawa) on Monday, April 13. The second meeting will be from 5:30-7 p.m. at Rosburg Hall (28 Rosburg Community Hall Road) on Monday, April 27.

VSP is not a new set of regulations; rather, it is an alternative approach to satisfy the Growth Management Act under RCW 36.70A. VSP was initially developed to avoid litigation over agricultural activities happening on or around “critical areas” such as streams, wetlands, fish and wildlife habitat, and landslide-prone areas. VSP can provide interested landowners and farmers with the resources to implement conservation actions or projects on their lands. The VSP Coordinator can work with any landowner to develop their own project suited to their needs and goals.

The goal of VSP is to protect critical areas while supporting agricultural viability, and to achieve this through a volunteer-based approach. Across Washington State, other successful VSP counties have shown that we can work collaboratively to protect and strengthen both our farms and our environment.

About Wahkiakum Conservation District:

Wahkiakum Conservation District (WCD) offers technical and financial assistance to farmers and landowners in Wahkiakum County. We have a range of voluntary services to help people manage and protect the natural resources on working lands. To learn more, email bbennett@ccdandwcd.com or call 360-795–8240.