SD Conservation.org

Conservation for Today, Tomorrow and the Future


Elk Creek Conservation District
2202 Main Street—Sturgis, SD 57785-1338 Phone: 605-347-4952—FAX: 605-347-3016


The Elk Creek Conservation District covers all of Meade County with the exception of a portion in the northeast corner which is included in the Tri-County Conservation District. Meade County is largely a ranching area with some farming scattered over the entire county. As the area was settled in the late 1800’s and early 1900’s, many of the people were from farming areas in the bordering states on the east and south. It was only natural for them to want to plow out the sod and start raising grain crops, chiefly wheat. This continued for many years, and when the dry years of the 30’s came along, wind erosion became a serious problem; when a hard rain came, the fields washed and started gullies. Stock water became short and the small dams could not hold enough water. Loads of cattle were shipped out due to a lack of water, as well as feed. Many people moved out of the county. Those people who stayed realized they had to make changes. A Civilian Conservation Corps was established at Fort Meade in 1937, and some man power and equipment was available from the camp. The state district law had been passed, and many areas were taking advantage of the opportunity to organize districts. A group of people in Meade County decided that this would be a good way to get the assistance they needed. They spread the good word and circulated petitions for a hearing and referendum. A vote was held on December 12, 1940 and passed five to one. On February 20, 1941, the Elk Creek Conservation District was formed. The conservation district greatly appreciates the citizens of Meade County who have served as district supervisors or have allowed the district to assist them in conservation planning or implementing practices. Please feel free to contact our office if we can be of assistance.

Elk Creek Conservation District Mission
It is the purpose of the Elk Creek Conservation District to promote the wise use of the Natural Resources for the purpose of improving the lifestyle of the residents of our District

To contact Elk Creek Conservation District, click here

Conservation District Board of Supervisors and Staff

Dale Lundgren Chairman Sturgis, SD	Eddie Grubl Vice Chairman Sturgis, SD	Rich Blair Supervisor Sturgis, SD
Connie McPherson Supervisor Sturgis, SD	Philip Wilson Supervisor/Hills Area Director Elm Springs, SD	Shannon Lensegrav District Manager Sturgis, SD

Photos courtesy USDA NRCS and SDACD Photo Contest
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