The Columbia County Soil and Water Conservation District works cooperatively with local agricultural operations to promote a common understanding of conservation and environmental stewardship. 

Most often we utilize New York State's Agricultural Environmental Management (AEM)  program as the vehicle to gain a mutual understanding of the farming operation and its business objectives. When feasible, we assist landowners in acquiring state and federal funding to implement business objectives and facilities that enhance environmental quality and promote the business' economic viability. Contact Laura Sager for the latest funding opportunities: laura.sager@ccswcd.org or (518) 828-4386 x 3.

We prepare the soil maps and soil group worksheets that are required for property owners applying for an agricultural exemption. The fee is $30 per tax parcel. The yearly deadline for submitting an Ag Assessment to the Town Tax Assessor is March 1. Check with your town assesor for details and dates as they can vary from town to town. For more information and to have your soil maps and worksheets prepared contact Steve Nack: steve.nack@ccswcd.org or (518) 828-4386, x 3.