Dianna is District Manager of the Logan County Conservation Districts.

The rich heritage of conservation in Kentucky began in Southern Logan County in 1940. Progressive leaders from this predominantly agricultural region organized the South Logan Conservation District. This was the first such District to be formed in the state. The remainder of the county was established as the North Logan Conservation District in 1943. All land in Logan County is included in the two Districts.

The boundary between the two Districts is a line approximately one mile north of U.S. Hwy 68 and mostly parallel to the highway. The Districts differ in the dominate soil types and the contrasting topography. The main reason for still continuing both of the districts is probably due more to historical tradition than anything else.

Each of the Districts is served by a seven-member board of supervisors who are elected by voters within their respective boundaries. The term of office is four years. These boards meet monthly, choose a joint chairman, and conduct and promote the programs and affairs of the Districts in a coordinated fashion. At the present time, a District Manager and a Soil Conservationist are full-time employees, and the Administrative Assistant is part-time.

Districts operate under Kentucky Revised Statutes, Chapter 262 and along with other Districts in the Commonwealth are sub-divisions of state government. In 1993, the Kentucky Legislature made changes in the law which better reflects the mission of Districts in administering conservation programs that affect all natural resources.

What many people do not realize is that Logan County is where the first Conservation District was created and organized. Also Logan County is the only county that has two conservation districts.

We have a rich heritage that we are proud of, so please come out on Thursday, Nov. 17 and help us celebrate over 70 years in conservation and celebrating the American Farmer at our Farmer Appreciation Day at the USDA Offices at 253 C Hopkinsville Road, Russellville. We will begin our celebration at 10 a.m. through 1 p.m. We will have refreshments, door prizes, brochures and pictures through the years. So come on out and help us celebrate!