WHEREAS, in 2016, the John Marshall Soil and Water Conservation District celebrates 50 years of providing leadership, technical assistance, information, and education to the citizens of Fauquier County in proper soil stewardship, agricultural methods, and water quality protections to ensure the wise use of the county's natural resources; and WHEREAS, soil and water conservation districts are self-governing divisions of the Commonwealth; the districts develop plans for conserving soil resources, controlling and preventing soil erosion, preventing floods, and determining how best to conserve, utilize, and protect water resources; and WHEREAS, the John Marshall Soil and Water Conservation District was created in May 1966; the first election for the board of directors was held the following month and regular operation has continued since that time; in 2016, the county encompasses 660 square miles and has a population of more than 68,000; and WHEREAS, the John Marshall Soil and Water Conservation District has a five-member board of directors; the district provides agricultural conservation assistance and educational programs, makes information available to the public, and offers technical support to local government; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED by the House of Delegates, the Senate concurring, That the General Assembly hereby commend the John Marshall Soil and Water Conservation District on the occasion of its 50th anniversary of providing comprehensive and efficient natural resource assistance to the residents of Fauquier County; and, be it RESOLVED FURTHER, That the Clerk of the House of Delegates prepare a copy of this resolution for presentation to the John Marshall Soil and Water Conservation District as an expression of the General Assembly's respect and admiration for the district's dedication and tireless work to maintain and preserve the Commonwealth's natural resources for the benefit of all its citizens. |