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DATA GATHERING PROGRAMS -

*Crow River Monitoring*	In 1998, the Wright District entered into an agreement with the Metropolitan Council to maintain Crow River monitoring station at Rockford, Minnesota. This station automatically collects water samples that are analyzed for many different water parameters including nitrogen, metals, phosphorus, sediment and turbidity.
Rain Gauge Program	Beginning in 1978, the Wright District has maintained a monitoring network (3 to 6 stations) to ascertain the monthly rain at a specific site. This information is forwarded to the State Climatologist for inclusion into a State database found at http://climate.umn.edu
*Well Monitoring*	Since 1979, the District has participated in a groundwater study sponsored by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources. Seven (7) wells were installed at that time and continue to be monitored.

EDUCATIONAL PROGRAMS -

*5th Grade Educational Field Day*	Launched in 1983, this program is designed to promote the "conservation ethic" among the young student. Begun with only one day, this program has expanded to its current six days (three fall, three spring, per school year) and encompasses over sixty classes and 1600 students
*Outstanding Cooperator Award*	Yearly, an outstanding Wright County land user/association/organization employing/promoting conservation activities is selected to receive this statewide recognition promoted by "The Farmer" magazine.

ENFORCEMENT PROGRAM -

Wetland Conservation Act

This State Act of 1991, through the authorization of their County, allowed Districts to actively participate in the enforcement of this Law through formulation of restoration orders and designation of wetlands boundaries. The Wright District accepted this responsibility.

INCENTIVE PROGRAMS -

Federal Programs	*Conservation Reserve Program (CRP) -* Long term set aside program for fragile land. *Cost-Share Programs (EQIP, WHIP) -* Provides up to 75 percent cost-share to improve resources concerns and develop habitat. *Wetland Reserve Program (WRP) -* Program designed to restore and preserve wetland forever through perpetual easements.
State Programs	*Reinvest In Minnesota/Permanent Wetland Preserves (R.I.M./P.W.P.) -* Begun in 1986 and continuing today, this program has two-fold objective of protecting soil and water resources which in turn it was felt would increase the opportunities for hunting and fishing tourism. State Cost-Share - State funds are used to solve sediment and erosion problems through underwriting practice application.
Wright Soil and Water Conservation District (SWCD) Programs	*Agriculture Preserves Program -* This is a cooperative program between the Wright County Planning and Zoning Office and the Wright SWCD. The program was created to give landowners a tax break and protection from some current assessment in return for erosion control. *Local Cost-Share Program -* Program underwritten with District funds and used to solve or alleviate sediment and erosion problems with low cost options in an innovative manner.

INTERAGENCY PROGRAMS -

*DNR Permits*	Upon request, the District reviews, comments and makes recommendations on DNR permits applications.
*Plat Reviews*	Wright County Planning and Zoning Department frequently requests District reviews and comments on Plat Reviews.
*Tax Forfeit*	Land obtained through tax forfeiture is checked on-site for abandoned wells, marginal land and wetlands.

LOAN PROGRAM -

State Revolving Fund (SRF)

This is a low interest loan program used to finance agricultural waste handling upgrades, conservation tillage equipment, failing farm and lakeshore septic system upgrades and other land protecting conservation practices.

SALES PROGRAM -

Minimal District income is derived from rental of a District owned tree planner and sale of plat books and bare root tree stock.

SEED PROGRAM -

The District serves as a site of distribution for Pheasants Forever seed that is used for wildlife food plots and habitat. Available seed usually includes corn, sorghum, sunflower and occasionally grass seed.

WETLAND RESTORATION PROGRAM -

Engineering and financial assistance, up to 100 percent of the cost, may be provided in this program if landowners agree to maintain the created/restored wetland(s) for a period of ten years.