Planning for Productive Farms and Clean Water

The Clinton County Conservation District works with farmers and landowners to protect soil and water resources through agricultural planning. Thoughtful planning helps reduce soil erosion, protect local streams, and maintain long-term farm productivity while meeting Pennsylvania’s regulatory requirements.

Agricultural planning is not just about compliance — it is about keeping valuable soil and nutrients on the land, improving field efficiency, and protecting Clinton County’s natural resources for future generations.

Why Conservation Planning Is Important

Agricultural activities have the potential to contribute sediment and nutrient runoff to nearby waterways if erosion is not properly managed. Conservation planning helps identify areas where erosion may occur and outlines practical, farm-specific solutions to reduce soil loss.

Benefits of agricultural planning include:

• Protecting topsoil and crop productivity
• Reducing sediment and nutrient runoff to streams
• Improving soil health and water infiltration
• Supporting compliance with state and federal regulations
• Identifying opportunities for financial and technical assistance

Planning is the foundation for effective conservation and sustainable farming operations.

What Is an Agricultural Erosion & Sediment (Ag E&S) Control Plan?

An Agricultural Erosion & Sediment Control (Ag E&S) Plan is a site-specific, written plan that identifies potential sources of soil erosion on agricultural land and documents practices used to minimize soil loss.

Ag E&S plans typically include:

• Field maps and soil information
• Crop rotations and tillage practices
• Identification of slopes, drainage patterns, and erosion risks
• Best Management Practices (BMPs) such as cover crops, conservation tillage, grassed waterways, and buffers
• An implementation schedule for conservation practices

Under Pennsylvania Chapter 102 Erosion & Sediment Control regulations, all agricultural operations that involve plowing or tilling the soil are required to have a written Ag E&S plan in place. These plans must be available on the farm and updated as operations or practices change.

Visit our Agricultural Construction and E&S Page for More Information on these Plans. 

What Is a Conservation Plan?

A Conservation Plan takes a broader look at an agricultural operation and addresses multiple natural resource concerns beyond erosion alone. While Ag E&S plans focus specifically on soil loss and sediment control, conservation plans may also address:

• Nutrient management
• Soil health improvements
• Pasture and livestock management
• Streambank protection
• Long-term resource goals for the farm

Conservation plans are often required to participate in certain federal or state conservation programs and funding opportunities.

Who Helps Develop These Plans?

The Clinton County Conservation District provides technical assistance, guidance, and coordination, but does not typically write full agricultural conservation plans in-house.

Planning support is provided through collaboration with partners such as:

• USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) – primary agency assisting with conservation plan development
• Certified conservation planners
• Agricultural professionals and consultants

The District works closely with these partners to help landowners understand planning requirements, connect with appropriate resources, and implement recommended practices.

Download a Listing of Planners Here.

Is there any funding assistance available to develop an Ag E&S or Conservation plan?

• Resource Enhancement and Protection Program (REAP). This program provides tax credits for farmers to have plans developed or install BMPs. More information on this program can be found here.

How the Conservation District Can Help

The Clinton County Conservation District can assist by:

• Explaining Ag E&S and conservation planning requirements
• Providing technical guidance on BMPs and erosion concerns
• Reviewing Ag E&S plans for compliance
• Helping identify grant and cost-share funding opportunities
• Coordinating with NRCS and other partners

Our goal is to support farmers through practical solutions that protect both their operation and the county’s natural resources.