ABOUT US
The St. Joseph County Conservation District was established in 1948 to assist farmers in developing soil and water conservation plans. Since then, the District has expanded its focus to include a wide range of stakeholders across the County and throughout the St. Joseph River Watershed. While agriculture remains a core focus, we also collaborate with partner organizations to protect and conserve the county's most vital natural resource—water.
Guided by a volunteer board of five members and supported by a dedicated staff, The St. Joseph County Conservation District works with partners to promote the preservation of ground and surface water, sustainable agricultural practices, irrigation efficiency, environmental education, ecological stewardship, and community-centered initiatives.
Our services are made possible through community support, including volunteer efforts, local financial contributions, and grant funding. Throughout the year, the Conservation District organizes several fundraising events, such as the spring tree sale, annual meeting, and local food dinner, to further our mission.
RECENT event Highlights
SPRING TREE SALE 2025
The St. Joseph County Conservation District's Annual Spring Tree Sale 2025 is now live! Explore our diverse selection online, or reach out to our office to have a catalog sent directly to your mailbox. Your support not only enhances local landscapes with quality trees but also helps us continue our mission to give back to the community and protect Michigan's natural resources!
2025 ANNUAL MEETING
The District's Annual Meeting and Board Election event is just around the corner!
Date: Wednesday, March 19, 2025
Time: 6:00-8:00pm
Location: St. Joseph County ISD at 62445 Shimmel Road in Centreville.
This year’s event will include program updates, citizen awards, and a special presentation by Dr. Douglas McLaughlin, highlighting ongoing efforts to improve water quality across Southwest Michigan.
Reserve your seat today by calling (269) 467-6336 Ext. 5
We hope to see you there!
RIVER CLEANUP EVENTS
We are looking forward to another great season
kayaking our way to healthier waterways in 2025!
Event dates to be released early spring!
If you'd like to become a river cleanup volunteer,
please call the office to be put on our list!
(269) 467-6336 Ext. 5
ST. JOSEPH RIVER INVENTORY
Our SJCCD team has successfully surveyed the entire length of the St. Joseph River, mapping invasive species distributions, water quality trends, and potential areas of concern along the 206-mile mainstem.
MONTHLY BOARD MEETING
Topic: November Board Meeting
Wednesday, January 15, 2025
3:00PM - 4:30PM
OUR MISSION
THE ST. JOSEPH COUNTY CONSERVATION DISTRICT PROVIDES EDUCATION, TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE, PARTNERSHIPS, AND CONTACTS FOR LOCAL RESOURCES TO HELP OUR RESIDENTS CONSERVE THEIR LANDS AND OUR SHARED ENVIRONMENT FOR A CLEANER, HEALTHIER, ECONOMICALLY STRONGER REGION.
SJCCD PHOTO GALLERY
Check out our photo gallery!
Click on pictures to see what SJCCD has been up to!
RIVER CLEANUP EVENT SCHEDULE
Event dates to be announced in spring 2025!
CALL OUR OFFICE TO BECOME A RIVER CLEANUP VOLUNTEER!
(269) 467-6336 Ext. 5
*Snacks, lunch, kayaks,
and life jackets provided!
Program Contact: Eric Pretzlav
SOUTHERN MICHIGAN INVASIVE SPECIES TEAM
Questions regarding invasive species?
Call or email at
(269) 467-6336 Ext. 5
-or- shaun.grace@macd.org
Program Contact: Shaun Grace
MACROINVERTEBRATE EVENT SCHEDULE
Event dates to be announced in spring 2025!
CALL OUR OFFICE TO BECOME A STREAM MONITORING VOLUNTEER!
(269) 467-6336 Ext. 5
*No previous experience necessary; equipment and training provided!
Program Contact: Kaitlin Renehan