March 24th through March 27th 2025, representatives from the Oklahoma Conservation Commission (OCC) and the Oklahoma Association of Conservation Districts (OACD) traveled to Washington, D.C., to participate in the National Association of Conservation Districts (NACD) annual spring fly-in. This event provides NACD members the opportunity to build relationships with congressional representatives, highlight the importance of locally led conservation, and advocate for strong federal conservation policies.
The Oklahoma delegation met with all seven of the state’s congressional representatives and their staff to address key issues, including the Farm Bill, federal funding freezes impacting grant-related work, tariffs, and workforce reductions at the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS).
Oklahoma has long been recognized for its strong partnership between NRCS, the state commission, and local conservation districts. Workforce reductions at Oklahoma NRCS offices impact the timeliness and efficiency of conservation technical assistance provided to farmers and ranchers. With nearly 92% of NRCS offices co-located alongside conservation districts, delivering essential services to producers is a collaborative effort that depends on sufficient staffing and resources.
As Congress approaches the Easter recess, the OCC and OACD delegation used this visit as an opportunity to urge elected officials to pass the Farm Bill in a timely manner, reinitiate the flow of previously obligated grant funds to Oklahoma, and highlight the success of Oklahoma programs.
Trey Lam, Executive Director of the Oklahoma Conservation Commission, expressed his appreciation for longtime conservation advocate, Congressman Frank Lucas (OK-03). “Frank has tirelessly championed the needs of Oklahoma’s farmers and ranchers, making conservation a priority in every Farm Bill since 1996. He truly understands the importance of voluntary, incentive-based conservation and working collaboratively with government agencies. Additionally, his steadfast support for the Small Watershed Flood Control Program has been instrumental in maintaining Oklahoma’s 2,107 watershed dams, which provide an average of $102 million in annual benefits to Oklahomans by reducing flood risks, protecting infrastructure, and ensuring water quality.”
For more information about Oklahoma’s conservation efforts and policy priorities, please contact Justine Anderson at Justine.anderson@okconservation.ok.gov/405-522-5954.
