The Grassroots conservation led to the passing of the Conservation District law over 50 years ago, this law stated the need for the development of county conservation districts.  The Franklin County Conservation District was created on February 14, 1956.  Every county in Pennsylvania, except Philadelphia County, currently has a conservation district.  A board of directors is appointed by the county commissioners and acts as the governing body.  The board members must reside within their representative county and are chosen from different economic backgrounds.

Implements soil and water conservation programs with various funding sources and partnerships.  Duties include: Erosion and Sedimentation Controls, Biosolids, Nutrient Management/Act 38, Chesapeake Bay, Watershed, and Environmental Education.  The Conservation District also conducts annual events such as the Envirothon (state and county), Eco-Days, tree seedling sales, school presentations, and many other activities.