Who We Serve
Mercer Soil & Water Conservation District (SWCD) works to conserve soil, water, and natural resources across Mercer County. We support farmers, educators, homeowners, and community programs like H2Ohio with education, technical assistance, and practical conservation solutions.
Farm
The Mercer SWCD provides technical assistance to landowners interested in agricultural conservation practices. The assistance provided includes site evaluation, survey, design, and construction inspection of conservation practices. Other technical assistance services include conservation planning and soil information.
Education
Offering a variety of educational programs for all ages—from Pre-K to adults—the Mercer SWCD helps foster a lifelong understanding and appreciation of conservation. The District also provides a range of learning opportunities for students and adults throughout the year.
Homeowners
Partnering with local homeowners, the Mercer SWCD works to protect and enhance soil, water, and natural resources across the county. Through its staff and board, the District provides technical assistance, conservation planning, and cost-share support for erosion control, drainage improvements, pollutant reduction, and habitat restoration. Homeowners can also purchase low-cost rain barrel kits to support conservation efforts at home.
H2Ohio
H2Ohio initiative for implementing approved management practices. Eligible practices include Nutrient Management Planning, soil testing variable-rate fertilization, subsurface nutrient application, manure incorporation, conservation crop rotation, cover crops, and drainage water management.
Forestry
Supporting forestry across Mercer County, the SWCD offers tree seedling sales, planting services, and expert guidance on tree selection and design. The District also assists with site preparation, maintenance, and connects landowners to cost-share programs. Educational outreach further promotes the value of trees and woodland conservation.
For questions on forestry, please contact the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) at 614-265-6694 or visit their website.
9-ELEMENT PLANS
H2Ohio initiative for implementing approved management practices. Eligible practices include Nutrient Management Planning, soil testing variable-rate fertilization, subsurface nutrient application, manure incorporation, conservation crop rotation, cover crops, and drainage water management.
Approved 9-Element Plans:
Click to View .PDFs