Ellie Larson

Texas State Soil and Water Conservation Board

The TSSWCB was established in 1939 in response to the ecological and agricultural devastation of the Dust Bowl. The TSSWCB works in partnership with the State's 2016 local soil and water conservation districts (SWCDs) to encourage the wise and productive use of the State's soil and water resources in a manner that promotes a clean, healthy environment and strong economic growth. The TSSWCB administers Texas' soil and water conservation law and delivers coordinated natural resource conservation programs to agricultural producers throughout the state. The TSSWCB is responsible for planning, implementing, and managing programs and practices for preventing and abating agricultural and silvicultural (forestry-related) nonpoint sources of water pollution. The TSSWCB administers a water supply enhancement program to increase available surface and ground water supplies through the targeted control of water-depleting brush in areas in need of water conservation. The TSSWCB works to ensure the State's network of 2,000 flood control dams is protecting lives and property from flood damage, as well as, the quality and supply of water resources by keeping sediment from reaching major reservoirs. The TSSWCB works to improve border security and restore ecosystem function of the Rio Grande through control of carrizo cane. The TSSWCB facilitates the Texas Invasive Species Coordinating Committee whose purpose is to serve as a coordinating body for State endeavors aimed at management of invasive species.