SOIL & WATER CONSERVATION DISTRICT FUNDING

Angela P. White, Ph.D.

Lesson Objectives

Recognize Financial Responsibilities of SWCD Directors.

ID Sources of SWCD Funding.

Discuss State Law Pertaining to SWCD Finances.

ID Fundamental Financial Management Practices for SWCD.

Financial Responsibility To be accountable for the wise

use of entrusted public monies.

Sources of Annual SWCD

Operating Funds State Local

Governments Other

Grants Donations Revenue Generating

­ Technical Services­ Sales­ Rental Programs

Statewide SWCD Funding

State (DCR) = 70% $4,052,240 (FY 2006-2007)

Local = 20%

Other Sources = 10%State

Local

Other

State Funding

Two Types of State Funding Operating Funds

SWCDs now a line item in DCR budget. VSWCB Policy provides “essential” funding and

additional provisions. Funds administered through a grant agreement. DCR recommends “Director Support” in the

amount of $500/director/year for training and travel.

Program Funds (Cost-Share) Typically used for water quality improvement.

Local Government Support

Varies from District to District. Local Donors

County City Town

Other Funding Sources Grants Donations Conservation Equipment Rental

Programs Sales Interest Income Other Services

How Are District Funds Spent? Essential Funding is used for district

operations: Employee Salaries & Fringe Benefits Rent, Office Supplies, & Equipment Conservation Equipment & Purchases Educational Activities Training, Meetings, & Publicity

Cost-Share Funding & Grants Designated use for specific programs and

activities.

State Law Requirements § 10.1-535 Bonds of officers and

employees; records and accounts

The district directors shall (i) provide for the execution of surety bonds for all employees and officers who shall be entrusted with funds or property; (ii) provide for the keeping of a full and accurate record of all proceedings and of all resolutions, regulations, and orders issued or adopted; and (iii) provide for an annual audit of the accounts of receipts and disbursements by the Auditor of Public Accounts or a certified public accountant approved by him.

Meeting Legal Requirements

Bonding

Plans and Reports­ Minutes­ Annual Plan of Work­ Annual Report­ Financial Reports­ Inventory Lists

Audits At least once every 2 years

Fundamental Financial Management Practices

Basic understanding of SWCD financial accounts.

Develop & Adhere to Annual Budget. - Consideration of Unexpended Funds- Projected revenue & expenses- Detail of actual income &

expenditures for the last year.- Estimate of staff and costs to

accomplish proposed activities. - Narrative summary.

Approved Purchasing Policy.

Financial Management Practices Continued Review of Treasurer’s Reports. Compliance w/ Audit Findings. Team Approach to Account

Management. Refer to Desktop Guide for

District Fiscal Operations.

Final Thoughts #1 Responsibility = Financial

Accountability Refer to “Course Documents” to

review the following documents: Annual Plan DCR Operating Agreement Budget Purchasing Policy