On March 1, 2023, the County of San Diego hosted the 2^nd annual Voluntary Conservation and Land Management Assistance Workshop. This event was co-sponsored by the Resource Conservation District of Greater San Diego County (RCDGSDC), United States Fish and Wildlife Services’ Partners for Fish and Wildlife, and University of California Agriculture and Natural Resources.

The event was held in person this year at the County Operations Center Hearing Room and included a virtual component for those unable to make the commute. The goal of this workshop was to connect property owners, farmers, land managers, and other organizations with existing funding opportunities, technical assistance, and organizations that support conservation efforts and sustainable land management practices. Through this one-stop-shop, the County and its partners hope to bring awareness to these programs and increase accessibility for those who may be interested in participating but may not have heard of these programs previously.

The event was held in person this year at the County Operations Center Hearing Room and included a virtual component for those unable to make the commute. The goal of this workshop was to connect property owners, farmers, land managers, and other organizations with existing funding opportunities, technical assistance, and organizations that support conservation efforts and sustainable land management practices. Through this one-stop-shop, the County and its partners hope to bring awareness to these programs and increase accessibility for those who may be interested in participating but may not have heard of these programs previously.

There were 10 different organizations that participated, such as the U.S. Department of Agriculture Natural Resources Conservation Service, RCDGSDC, and Zero Foodprint, highlighting 17 funding assistance programs separated into four categories: restoration, conservation & sustainability, planning, and fire safety. In addition to these external stakeholders, the County had representatives from Planning & Development Services, Department of Public Works, Agriculture Weights & Measures, and the Office of Sustainability and Environmental Justice in attendance.

Attendees had the opportunity to speak to program representatives, ask questions, and share their insights on conservation and sustainability topics. As a bonus, snacks and refreshments were provided for making the journey! In addition to the funding and assistance programs, a representative from the County’s Planning & Development Services was available to assist those who wanted to look up their property’s Zoning designation or ask general permitting questions.

Resources for you

An event workbook was composed with an overview and description of each funding assistance program including eligibility, available funding, how to apply, application deadline, and contact information. You can download the event workbook from the event website.

If you were unable to attend the workshop, you can watch the recording of the meeting introduction and overview of included programs on YouTube in English and Spanish.

If you have any questions about this event or would like your organization to participate in future workshops, please contact Stephanie Neal at Stephanie.Neal@sdcounty.ca.gov. You can also sign up for email updates on future workshops and other County conservation programs.