Programs and Services

Nature Walks and Guides

In past summers the Franklin County Conservation District created nature guides with help from Richford and St. Albans day campers. Campers contributed their observations of the natural world on nature walks led at the camps by the Conservation District. Each guide features drawings of over 30 species of local plants and animals observed by the campers, with descriptions from both the District and the kids. The guides help kids and their families explore the natural areas in their communities, and they showcase these local kids’ knowledge and sharp observational skills. The nature walks and creation of the guides were sponsored by grants from the Vermont Community Foundation’s Small and Inspiring grant program and the Upper Missisquoi and Trout Rivers Wild and Scenic Rivers grant program. Copies of the guides are available from the St. Albans, Richford, and Berkshire town and school libraries, and are available for free download and reproduction below.

Locals’ Nature Guide to the Richford Playground – 2nd edition, 32 pgs (9.2 MB)

Locals’ Nature Guide to the Richford Playground – 1st edition, 16 pgs (2.2 MB)

Locals’ Nature Guide to St. Albans – 16 pgs (2.2 MB)

Nutrient Management Planning Assistance

Soil sampling, class preparation, and personalized assistance throughout UVM Extension’s winter Nutrient Management Planning class for small livestock farms, all available at no cost to farmers. Participants end the class with a certified Nutrient Management Plan. Made possible by the NRCS’s Regional Conservation Partnership Program.

Trees for Streams

We are currently seeking participants who want trees planted along streams, ditches, lakes or ponds on their own land. The Conservation District will provide a preliminary consultation, plant materials, and planting labor; the landowner agrees to maintain the site for ten years. Contact us by August 31 for more information!

Trout Sales

Every spring and fall the District offers trout for stocking ponds through Hy On A Hill Trout Farm. Stop in during early spring or early fall to place your order.

Tree Sales

Every spring the District holds a bare root tree sale, providing high-quality trees at great prices to landowners throughout the region. Orders accepted January through March.

NRCS Funding Prioritization

Every summer the local District has the opportunity to revise the local ranking questions used to prioritize applications for financial assistance from the USDA-NRCS. What do you think are the most pressing natural resources concerns in Franklin County, and what practices will best address them?