Stewardship Week

The journey of Soil Stewardship Week began long before the National Association of Conservation Districts (NACD) took over the initiative. In the early years following the Dust Bowl, soil conservation efforts were largely promoted by publications like Farm and Ranch Magazine and the Soil Conservation Service (SCS). These early partnerships helped bring attention to the need for soil conservation, leading to a growing recognition of the importance of protecting our land and natural resources.

In 1955, NACD formally took the reins of  Soil Stewardship Week—a week originally promoted by media and government agencies. While Farm and Ranch Magazine helped initiate soil conservation awareness, NACD’s leadership and expertise in organizing local districts provided the structure needed to make it a nationwide program. By the time NACD assumed full responsibility, the event began to gain more visibility and momentum, as local conservation districts across the country joined in.

NACD didn’t just maintain the event – it grew it. Through consistent efforts, innovative outreach, and the collaboration of thousands of conservation districts nationwide, Soil Stewardship Week evolved from a regional activity into one of the largest national natural resource awareness programs hosted by a single entity. Today, NACD’s Stewardship Week is celebrated in every corner of the U.S. and its territories, with many of the nation’s 3,000+ conservation districts hosting celebrations. More than 100,000 people are engaged annually in activities ranging from school events and community outreach to field days and workshops.

This rapid growth is a testament to NACD’s commitment to advancing conservation education and mobilizing communities to protect soil, water, and other vital resources. Over the decades, NACD has helped amplify the significance of Soil Stewardship Week, ensuring it remains a cornerstone of the nation’s conservation efforts. By empowering local conservation districts and providing essential educational materials, NACD has positioned Stewardship Week as a powerful, far-reaching initiative that continues to inspire conservation action on the ground.

A Look Back in Time: Stewardship Week’s Rich History, Curated by Steven Meeks

We are excited to share a special project that brings us all back to the very beginning of Stewardship Week—a project led by Steven Meeks, the dedicated NACD Presidents Association Board Member and Historian from the Thomas Jefferson Soil and Water Conservation District in Virginia. Steven has poured his time and energy into gathering a rich collection of photos, documents, and historical records that trace the evolution of Stewardship Week from its humble beginnings.

This collection is a true testament to the growth of one of the most impactful conservation programs in the country. As part of his ongoing efforts to preserve the history of NACD’s mission and the Stewardship and Education Program, Steven has meticulously tracked the milestones and achievements of Stewardship Week, highlighting its critical role in educating communities and promoting soil, water, and habitat conservation.

Steven’s work goes beyond just collecting photographs and copies of archived printed materials – he’s also dedicated to ensuring future generations understand the importance of Stewardship Week and the hard work that has gone into shaping its success. His collection not only serves as a valuable historical resource but also as a way for all of us to reflect on the incredible progress made over the years.

If you have older Stewardship Week materials or a collection from previous years—especially vintage years—please reach out to us! We would love for you to scan and share them for this special project, and we can connect you with Mr. Meeks. Contact us at stewardship[at]nacdnet.org

We invite you to check back soon to explore photo albums of this growing collection and take a step back in time. We deeply appreciate Steven’s unwavering commitment to preserving our history and his dedication to the NACD’s mission. His efforts ensure that the spirit of Stewardship Week will continue to inspire for years to come.