Rock County Soil & WATER cONSERV

State Cost Share Program

The State Cost Share Program is a viable source of funds that provide a financial incentive to landowners that wish to install conservation practices on their land. In addition to the State Cost Share Program, landowners have the opportunity to participate in various other cost-share or financial incentive programs. Individuals seeking financial or technical assistance will be informed of the Federal Environmental Quality Incentive Program and the State Revolving Loan Fund Program (also known as Ag BMP Loan Program). The SWCD and the NRCS (National Resource Conservation Service) provide technical assistance for the survey, design and installation of water quality practice.

State Revolving Loan Program
(Ag BMP Program)

The Rock SWCD works with the Minnesota Department of Agriculture to provide low interest financing to farmers, rural landowners and agriculture supply businesses to encourage agricultural best management practices that prevent or reduce runoff from feedlots, farm fields and other pollution problems identified by the county in local water plans. This program provides loans for projects that reduce existing water quality problems caused by agricultural activities or failing septic systems and helps landowners comply with water related laws and rules.

State Cost Share - Well Sealing

State Cost Share funds are available to assist landowners with the cost of sealing unused wells. Funds are available for up to 50% of the cost or $300 whichever is less. Wells must be sealed by a licensed well sealer. Call our office to have your name put on the cost share list, bring us a copy of your paid bill to be reimbursed. It's that simple!

Wetland Conservation Act

The SWCD assists cities, townships, citizens and county departments in the administration of the Minnesota Wetland Conservation Act. SWCD staff provides technical assistance and acts as the "clearing house" for wetland and water related activities throughout Rock County.

Well Water Test Kits

Well water test kits are available to Rock County residents free of charge. Residents can pick up their test kits at the SWCD office. Samples from these kits are mailed by residents to MVTL Laboratories in New Ulm for testing.

Nutrient Management Test Kits

Nutrient management test kits are available to Rock County producers free of charge. Producers may pick up their test kits at the SWCD office. Samples from these kits are mailed by producers to MVTL Laboratories in New Ulm for testing.

Tree Program

The SWCD offers a District Tree Program which provides landowners the opportunity to purchase various trees and shrubs that are hearty to zone 4. Matting is also available to assist the landowner with weed control. Tree orders are taken in November for delivery in April. Trees may be planted by the landowners themselves or by district staff. Trees planted by our staff are eligible for cost share which applies to the cost of the trees and the matting - contact our office for more information. For more information on cost and specific trees species available through the Rock SWCD and general tree information click the links below.

Rock SWCD 2010 Tree Policy
(subject to change)
Rock SWCD 2010 Available Species and Prices
(subject to change)
MN DNR - Tree Planting and Care
MN DNR - Tree Species

Why mat your planted trees? Click on the picture for further information.

Native Grass Drill Program

The SWCD provides a grass drill for rent for producers to use in seeding various projects such as CRP acres, streambank stabilization, CREP acres, grass waterways and more.

Household Hazardous Waste Collection

Rock County residents may dispose of household hazardous waste products free of charge by making an appointment with SWCD office. Appointments are taken for the first and third Thursday of each month. There are also county wide collections for both household hazardous waste and pesticides in the spring of each year.

Click on the link below for HHW Product information:
HHW Product Brochure

Precipitation Monitoring

The SWCD in conjunction with the State Climatology Office monitors site specific precipitation throughout Rock County. The data collected provides citizens and the State of Minnesota with important precipitation information and weather history.