The Land and Water Conservation Board
The LWCB connects local and state governments on conservation and farmland preservation issues. The board:

• certifies agricultural preservation plans for the farmland preservation program and exclusive agricultural zoning ordinances for counties and towns.
• reviews and makes recommendations on county land and water plans.
• recommends how funds are to be allocated to Wisconsin counties to put conservation plans into action.

Chapters 91, 92, and 281.65 of Wisconsin statutes further delineate the LWCB’s program authorities and responsibilities. The LWCB bylaws govern the conduct of its business.

LWCB bylaws – 13 page PDF

The LWCB is composed of three members of county land conservation committees, three state agency leaders, one Governor-appointed member that serves a two-year term, and four Governor-appointed members representing urban, rural, river management, and natural resource preservation areas. Mark Cupp is the chair for the LWCB.

LWCB Members and Advisors – 2 page PDF

LWCB Future Roles and Responsibilities
As directed by 2009 Wisconsin Act 28, Section 9103 4i, the LWCB members and advisors; Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection; and the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources put together a report on the LWCB Future Roles and Responsibilities.  The report was also shared with the public for comment prior to the December 1, 2009, LWCB meeting.  The final report can be viewed by clicking here (PDF).

LWCB Meetings
The LWCB has scheduled meetings for the following dates in 2010:

• February 2, 2010, in Madison - To view the materials for this meeting, click here (PDF).
• April 6, 2010, in Madison
• June 1, 2010, in Madison
• August 3, 2010, in Madison
• October 5, 2010, in Madison
• December 7, 2010, in Madison

LWCB 2009 Meeting Archives

Land and Water Conservation Board Annual Agenda – 8 page PDF

History of LWCB – 4 page PDF
History of soil conservation boards in Wisconsin from the 1937 Wisconsin Soil Conservation Committee to the present LWCB.