HSWCD Archived Articles

Flooded agricultural fields with water covering large areas, trees lining the fields, and a few scattered structures.

Multiple Farm Recovery Centers to be Held in December 2024

News Release

An event flyer for "Trees for Troops" with date, time, and eligibility details, plus a smiling person carrying a Christmas tree.

Trees for Troops Dec 6, 2024

Link to Post

Water Management District Rescinds Water Shortage Order

November 8, 2024

An ornate black metal gate with palm trees and a blue sky.

County to Collect Storm Debris from Gated Communities

Hillsborough County teams will collect storm debris in gated residential communities beginning Nov. 17. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA…

Group of hikers walking on a trail in a scenic green landscape with trees and purple flowers.

Hillsborough County Hiking Spree Start Delayed to Dec. 1

Hillsborough County, Fla. (Oct. 29, 2024) - The start and finish of Hillsborough County's popular Hiking Spree has been delayed a month because of the…

Residents Can Request Waterway Debris Removal In Hillsborough County

As Hillsborough County residents and businesses continue to recover from the damage caused by Hurricanes Helene and Milton, efforts now turn toward…

Three children are at a table with peanut butter jars, bread, and apple slices, seemingly making sandwiches.

UF/IFAS Extension Polk County’s Annual Peanut Butter Challenge

November 6, 2024

A soldier in uniform holding hands with a smiling young girl, walking alongside a smiling woman against a clear blue sky.

Busch Gardens Tampa Bay And Navy Federal Credit Union Join Forces To Celebrate Veterans Day

November 1, 2024

Hillsborough County Debris Collection Sites Changing Hours After Daylight Saving Time

November 4, 2024

Aerial view of churning water at a dam spillway with green fields and a sports complex nearby.

Hillsborough Flood Detention Area Continuing to Fill with Floodwaters

Oct. 11, 2024

A smiling elderly man with glasses, wearing a colorful plaid shirt, stands in a well-lit room with chandeliers in the background.

Mark Proctor

Appointing Authority: District 5

A smiling man in a plaid shirt and cowboy hat, outdoors with trees in the background.

Christopher "Bear" McCullough

Appointing Authority: District 1

A man in a wide-brimmed hat and leather jacket stands outdoors with trees in the background.

Robert "Myke" Morris

Position: Treasurer

Adam Young

Position: Vice Chair

A man in a light-colored cowboy hat and a suit jacket smiles, posing against a plain background.

Ryan Gill

Position: Chair

FEMA Extends Application Deadline for Hurricanes Helene and Milton in Florida

Hurricane Milton Update No. 84

People loading boxes into a car trunk, possibly at a drive-through distribution event.

Urgent Resources Available to Those Impacted by Hurricane Milton

Water, meals, tarps, showers, laundry stations, FEMA assistance, and more are available, free of charge

FEMA folder with a document, possibly an application form, featuring the U.S. Department of Homeland Security seal.

Hillsborough Residents Now Can Apply for FEMA Assistance

Hurricane Milton Update No. 29

World Environment Day: June 5

World Environment Day 2024: Land restoration, desertification, and drought resilience

Aerial view of vast, organized tree plantation with rows of trees stretching to the horizon.

Annual Citrus Recap: Is the Worst Over?

July 11, 2024

Sunrise over a fenced pasture with grazing livestock.

FWC Announces Payment for Ecosystem Services

For A Limited Time! Link to FWC Payment for Ecosystems Services

FL Youth Conservation Centers Network

Florida Youth Conservation Centers Network (FYCCN) – Aims to uphold Florida's outdoor heritage by educating and empowering Florida's youth and…

Aerial view of a large desalination plant with parking and adjacent water sources.

Water Protection Projects Eligible For Grants

September 13, 2024

Advertisement for Florida Birding & Nature Festival, October 17-20, 2024, with bird images and event details.

Florida Birding And Nature Festival Set For October

September 5, 2024

A child holds a rainbow umbrella collecting rainwater, with a smiling river and text bubbles saying “I am a Drop Saver” and “thank you!”.

Calling Hillsborough County Students to Enter Water Conservation Poster Contest

Hillsborough County, Fla. (Dec. 19, 2024) - Looking for a meaningful student project this holiday season?

An announcement for "Call for Candidates" for board seat openings in "District Seat 5" with a deadline of October 3, 2024, and megaphones.

Call for Candidates, Board of Supervisors, Hillsborough Soil & Water Conservation District Seat 5

Attachment A-Qualifications for the Office of Supervisor Soil and Water Conservation Districts

An announcement for board candidate applications with a deadline of September 20, 2024.

Call for Candidates, Board of Supervisors, Hillsborough Soil & Water Conservation District Seat 3

Attachment A-Qualifications for the Office of Supervisor Soil and Water Conservation Districts

An announcement for "CALL FOR CANDIDATES" with megaphones, indicating a Board Seat 1 opening.

Call for Candidates! Deadline Dec 12, 2024

2024 Attachment A -Supervisor Qualifications.pdf

An elderly woman with a butterfly shawl, resting her chin on her hands, against a black background.

Jane Goodall Headlines Weekend Of Environmental Action For Tampa Bay

September 6, 2024

Florida Python Challenge 2024

The Florida Everglades is an extraordinary ecosystem unlike any other in the world! It is home to a variety of rare and unique wildlife including a…

Agricultural field with rows of crops under a vast sky with wispy clouds.

Paper Mulch a Viable Option Against Nutsedge

July 16, 2024

Runners starting a race under a "START" archway outdoors.

Backyard Titan 10 Obstacle Race Comes To Dover

July 15, 2024 By Taylor Wells

A backyard with a curved pool and potted plants near a house.

Get The Dirt: Hurricane Season Is Heading Our Way

May 31, 2024

Reclaimed Water Temporarily Not Available For An Area Of South Hillsborough County Water Customers

By: Staff Report May 15, 2024

A group of people outdoors engaged in a conversation, surrounded by lush greenery and a sunny environment.

Get The Dirt: Horticulture Educational Opportunities

By Lynn Barber May 2, 2024

People tending to a garden with plants and flowers on a sunny day.

Get The Dirt: The Lazy Gardener

By Lynn Barber April 1, 2024

The image promotes a "Lunch & Learn" event, featuring colorful gears and a light bulb, encouraging attendees to meet, eat, and discover.

Jan 22 Lunch & Learn

Our Lunch & Learn is the perfect opportunity to learn about conservation programs available for farmers, ranchers & other producers. Matt Warren from…

A group of people posing together in a room, some wearing cowboy hats, with a patriotic backdrop.

HSWCD Supervisors Sign U.S. Farm Bill Position Statement

At their March 29 board meeting, Hillsborough Soil and Water Conservation District supervisors approved unanimously a position statement regarding the…

HSWCD Board of Supervisors seeks to fill vacant seat, applications due May 7

Apr 24, 2021

Jan 22 Lunch Learn @ Keel and Curley

Our Lunch & Learn is the perfect opportunity to learn about conservation programs available for farmers, ranchers & other producers. Matt Warren from…

Event flyer for a "Lunch & Learn" on September 7, 2023, at Hillsborough Cattlemen's Association, 11 AM to 1 PM.

Luncheon To Cover Legislation, Programs And Assistance For Agricultural Interests

Updated: Aug 31

Announcement for the 2023 Amateur Photo Contest by Hillsborough Soil and Water Conservation District; entry deadline is December 1, 2023.

NACD Photo, Poster Contests Highlighted On Conservation Education Hub

To drive home the message that conservation is a universal concern for people of all ages, the Hillsborough Soil and Water Conservation District (…

Hurricane Ian ECP Recovery Deadline Extended For Ag Producers In 28 Counties

April 2023

Hurricane Ian ECP Recovery Deadline Extended For Ag Producers In 28 Counties

The deadline for agricultural producers to apply for financial assistance to address damages from Hurricane Ian has been extended to May 22, 2023.

HSWCD Presents At NACD Annual Meeting With Session On Funding Streams For Districts

Betty Jo Tompkins, executive director of the Hillsborough Soil and Water Conservation District, presented this month at the National Association of…

The image features vibrant green plants with variegated leaves in black pots, surrounded by colorful flowers.

6th Annual Great Plant Auction Nov. 13 at 2022 Hillsborough County Fair

Updated: Nov 11, 2022

The image promotes the "Hillsborough 100 Conservation Challenge" by the Hillsborough Soil and Water Conservation District, highlighting local conservation efforts.

2022 Hillsborough 100 Conservation Challenge Releases Tabloid, Hosts Kickoff Luncheon

May 15, 2022

A hand holds a container of fresh, ripe strawberries with a field of strawberry plants in the background.

Strawberry U-Pick March 5 at Fancy Farms in Plant City

Updated: Mar 5, 2022

The image promotes a poster/speech contest with the theme "Healthy Soil Healthy Life," and a submission deadline of May 20, 2022.

'Healthy Soil, Healthy Life' poster, speech contest deadlines extended to May 20

The Hillsborough Soil and Water Conservation District holds at least two poster contests annually, including one that is held in conjunction with the…

A woman is speaking at a podium while holding a flyer. There are empty seats behind her, indicating a formal setting.

Hearings continue for bills seeking to abolish, change Florida soil and water conservation districts

Updated: Feb 20, 2022

A person is crouched down in a grassy area, working with plants. Another person stands nearby with a tool.

HSWCD celebrates year of impact engaging communities, securing resources for conservation

Updated: Jan 22, 2022

2025 NACD Poster Contest

The 2025 NACD Stewardship Theme, “Home is Where the Habitat Is,” celebrates 70 years of Stewardship Week.

2025 NACD Photo Contest

The NACD Photo Contest is open to all amateur photographers who reside in the U.S. or its territories in the following categories:

Teacher Classroom Mini-Grant Application Now Open

July 2025

A map outlining proposed areas for the South-Central Florida Swine Reduction Project by the USDA.

NRCS State Technical Committee Input Request: Feral Swine Proposal Area

The NRCS is vetting a proposed map for Feral Swine Control Pilot Projects. A large portion of the Alafia River basin is one proposed area. If there…

USDA Bridge Payment Details Released: Specialty Crops on Hold

Timelines for payments to specialty crop producers are still under development and require additional understanding of market impacts and economic needs, according to the release from USDA. For more information, visit this link: https://vegetablegrowersnews.com/news/usda-bridge-payment-details-specialty-crops-on-hold/?oly_enc_id=3903D2417278A6X

A close-up of a metal pipe covered in snow, with icicles hanging from it, suggesting cold or winter conditions.

Freeze-Related Well Complaint Form

Having troubles with your well(s) due to the recent freezing temperatures? Feel free to use this link to fill out a form.

Did You Know?

Taken from In the Field Magazine

Did You Know?

Color of Water Pipes

NRCS Requesting Input on Topics

Florida NRCS is requesting your input on topics covered during the 2/18/2026 State Technical Advisory Committee meeting. Please provide feedback via…

Last Chance for USDA Bridge Payments: March 13th!

U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke L. Rollins announced that the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is providing $1 billion in Assistance for…

Take the Florida Organic Growers Survey!

The Florida Organic Growers are conducting an Florida Agricultural Land Access & Organic Transition Survey to better understand the experiences of…

Soil filters water naturally, removing impurities and protecting water quality before it reaches streams and rivers.

NACD Stewardship Week 2026 - Day 5

As water travels through soil, it slows down, spreads out, and many impurities are removed, helping protect water quality before it reaches streams…

Event on June 17, 2026, at Pegasus Manor, Eustis, Florida, focusing on organic farming solutions and community connections.

Growing Stronger Together: A Symposium on Organic Farming Solutions

Growers, educators, and agricultural professionals, join Florida Organic Growers for Growing Stronger Together: A Symposium on Organic Solutions for…

NRCS Seeking Proposed Revisions to the National Handbook of Conserveration Practices

The Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) is revising specific conservation practice standard (CPS) in the National Handbook of Conservation…

Keel Farms - Conservation Collection - Manatee Moscato

A black pig is foraging in a grassy area surrounded by dry twigs and foliage.

Feral Swine Eradication Application with NRCS due Sept 21, 2026

The Feral Swine Eradication and Control Pilot Program (FSCP) is implemented jointly by NRCS and USDA’s Animal and Plant Health and Inspection Service…

A stunning view looking up through tall trees, surrounded by lush green leaves and a bright sky peeking through.

NRCS Sets Open Houses To Review Aid For Farmers, Ranchers, Foresters, Ag Producers

The image features the United States flag and the Florida state flag side by side.

Gov. DeSantis orders half-staff flags in tribute to conservationist Jimmy Buffet

Sept 7 2023

The image promotes the 2023 HSWCD Summer Poster Contest with the theme "Farming feeds the Future," featuring various farming activities.

2023 HSWCD Summer Poster Contest Runs Through August, Farming Theme Announced

May 2023

Hurricane Ian ECP Recovery Deadline Extended For Ag Producers In 28 Counties

April 2023

A man presents a commendation to an elderly woman in a wheelchair, celebrating a special occasion with balloons in the background.

Helen Mulrennan Young Turns 100; Her Family's Agricultural Roots Remembered

Feb 2023

A flyer for FDAC's Florida State Forest Quarterly Photo Contest, inviting photo submissions for a chance to win.

Florida State Forest Photo Contest presented by FDACS, Florida Forest Service

2023

Two boys stand at a booth promoting conservation, holding pamphlets, with various partner logos and children's drawings in the background.

HSWCD Presentation At AFCD Meeting Highlights Ways To Gain District Support

Feb 8 2023

HSWCD Supervisors Take Oath Of Office At Hillsborough County Center

Jan 8 2023

The image is a poster contest entry form for school-aged children, themed "One Water," with an April 28, 2023 deadline.

HSWCD In The Community: Brandon Movie Night With Parks and Recreation

Dec 8, 2022

Image promotes a local working group meeting by NRCS on Nov. 29, 2002, with a focus on conservation in a strawberry field.

Local Working Group For Agricultural Interests, General Public Set For Nov. 29

Updated: Nov 26, 2022

The image promotes a summer poster contest about pollinators, featuring bees, bats, birds, and butterflies.

September Deadline Set For HSWCD Summer Poster Contest

Updated: Aug 8, 2022

The image promotes a 2022 Rain Barrel Decorating Contest themed "Our Perfect Pollinators." It's for youth groups with cash prizes and auction details.

HSWCD Youth Poster, Rain Barrel, Plant Auction, Operation Pollination Contests And Projects

May 2022

The image outlines the 2023 HSCD Mini-Grants Program projects and award recipients, highlighting various community gardening initiatives.

16 Youth Groups Awarded HSWCD Conservation Mini-Grants

April 12, 2022

A woman speaking at a meeting, with a laptop in front of her, while others listen in the background.

Bills to abolish, restrict Florida soil and water conservation districts draw critics, concerns

UPDATED FEB. 19, 2022 — See our update blog, Hearings continue for bills seeking to abolish, change Florida soil and water conservation districts

Applications Sought For 2023 HSWCD Roy Gene Davis and Michael Hepburn Scholarships

Updated: Mar 2 2022

The image features a presentation title about funding streams and maximizing district potential for a conservation meeting in Tennessee.

HSWCD Reviews Funding Streams, Conservation Initiatives at 2021 Southeast Region Meeting

Updated: Jan 13, 2022

A group of people smiles for a photo at an outdoor event, with tents promoting parks and conservation nearby.

Hillsborough fights back against road extension through Lower Green Swamp Nature Preserve

Jul 8, 2021

The image promotes a "Rain Barrel Decorating Contest" by Hillsborough Soil and Water Conservation District for a conservation project.

'Enriching the Environment' Rain Barrel Decorating Contest set for 2021 Hillsborough County Fair

Jul 5, 2021

Lower Green Swamp Tree Planting draws widespread Hillsborough support

Updated: Jul 4, 2021

The image promotes an "HSWCD Summer Poster Contest" centered on the theme "Why Conservation Matters." It features a hand and a growing plant.

'Why Conservation Matters' summer poster contest open to school-aged entrants

Updated: Jun 30, 2021

The image features a close-up of fresh blueberries, showcasing their deep blue color and round shape.

Hillsborough 100 U-Pick at Duggal & Sons Blueberry Farm in Lithia to benefit HSWCD youth programs

May 16, 2021

A booth with a blue tablecloth displaying Florida Farm Bureau materials, promotional items, and a staff member interacting with attendees.

2023 Florida State Fair: A 'Fresh From Florida' Look Back In Photos

There's so much to see and do at the annual Florida State Fair, and every year it kicks off with a "Fresh From Florida" breakfast in the Florida…

A diverse group promotes conservation and recycling, featuring fun costumes and a message about environmental responsibility.

2022 Year in Review Highlights The 'Range And Scope' Of HSWCD Initiatives

Updated: Feb 25

Hillsborough Soil & Water's 2023 Mini-Grants offer $250 for youth conservation projects. Applications open Jan 10-Feb 20.

HSWCD Opens 2023 Mini-Grants Funding Cycle For Youth Group Conservation Projects

The Hillsborough Soil and Water Conservation District announces a mini-grants program open to youth groups and tied to the annual Hillsborough 100…

The image is a "Pollinator Partner Pledge" form from the Hillsborough Soil & Water Conservation District for individuals or groups to participate in conservation activities.

'Operation Pollination' Resolution And 'Pollinator Partner Pledge' For Community-Based Projects

Set for an ambitious two-year undertaking is the "Operation Pollination" initiative, presented by the Hillsborough Soil and Water Conservation…

The image promotes the 5th Annual Great Plant Auction on October 3 at the Hillsborough County Fair, presented by local nurserymen.

5th Annual Great Plant Auction set for Hillsborough County Fair, youth programs to benefit

July 2021

'Enriching the Environment' Rain Barrel Decorating Contest set for 2021 Hillsborough County Fair

Jul 5, 2021

Lower Green Swamp Tree Planting draws widespread Hillsborough support

Updated: Jul 4, 2021

'Why Conservation Matters' summer poster contest open to school-aged entrants

Updated: Jun 30, 2021

Join Florida's largest single-day tree-planting event on June 12, 2021. Pre-register by June 4 at Lower Green Swamp Preserve.

Pre-registration required for June 12 tree-planting at Plant City's Lower Green Swamp Preserve

Updated: May 30, 2021

A group of people examine plants in a field, discussing their growth, with some wearing masks and sunny weather.

Local Working Group Agenda, Questionnaire Set For May 27 Meeting

May 14, 2021

In Memoriam: Honoring HSWCD Board Chairman Michael Hepburn, scholarship in his name coming soon

March 2021

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