WHAT'S A CONSERVATION DISTRICT?
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Conservation districts are local government entities that operate under the New Mexico Soil and Water Conservation District Act of 1978 (NM 73-20-25 to 73-20-48). Conservation districts act in an advisory capacity to promote conservation. They do not have the authority or capability to enforce laws or regulations.

The Coronado Soil and Water Conservation District (SWCD) is one of 47 soil and water conservation districts in New Mexico. Coronado SWCD serves eastern Sandoval County.

Five to seven supervisors serve the Coronado District. District Supervisors are elected to serve a four-year term. If a supervisor resigns during his or her term, the board may appoint an interim supervisor to serve until the next election. Supervisors in positions 1-4 must be resident landowners in the District. The supervisor in position 5 must reside within the District, but is not required to be a landowner. Optional positions 6 and 7 are non-elected positions appointed at the Board's discretion; they allow non-resident landowners and residents who do not own land to be represented on the board.

Coronado SWCD receives technical assistance from the New Mexico Department of Agriculture and collaborates with a number of other agencies and organizations. The District is a member of the New Mexico Association of Conservation Districts.

​FUNDING

The District receives a small amount of operating funds from the New Mexico Department of Agriculture. These funds support a part-time (.10 FTE) District Manager, office expenses, training, and in-state travel. The District also may receive funds from grants, state legislative capital outlays, and district fundraising activities.

The District's office and meeting space are provided by Sandoval County. District Supervisors volunteer their time and do not receive monetary compensation for their services.

Some New Mexico conservation districts are supported by a mill levy; this allows them to have adequate and stable funding from year to year for soil and water conservation projects. Currently, Coronado SWCD is not funded by a mill levy.
PURPOSE

The mission of Coronado SWCD and other conservation districts in New Mexico, as defined in state statutes, is to:

  • Control and prevent soil erosion
  • Prevent floodwater and sediment damage
  • Further the conservation, development, beneficial application, and proper disposal of water
  • Promote the use of impounded water for recreation, propagation of fish and wildlife, irrigation, and urban and industrial needs
  • By the application of these measures, conserve and develop the natural resources of the state, provide for flood control, preserve wildlife, protect the tax base, and promote the health, safety and general welfare of the people of New Mexico​


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This page last reviewed/updated April 9, 2017.