Soil & Water Stewardship Week
to be observed April 28 through May 5

Guillermo Benavides Z., chair of the Webb Soil and Water Conservation District (SWCD), has announced the district will participate in the national observance of Soil and Water Stewardship Week April 28 through May 5.

"This focus is especially appropriate, as our need for stewardship is vital if we are to maintain the productive capabilities of our basic natural resources," said Benavides Z. of this year's theme, "The Gift of Trees." He added, "Together we must work for the good of all to utilize, conserve and properly manage those resources in our care. Participation in Soil and Water Stewardship Week activities offers an opportunity to reflect on the nation's renewable resource problems and consider actions to resolve them or reduce their impact."

The Webb SWCD was organized in 1951 for the purpose of offering farmers, ranchers, and the local community a voluntary conservation technical assistance program through which individuals could seek and request conservation assistance to meet the capabilities and needs of their land.

"Basically it is the district's responsibility to provide technical assistance when requested relative to proper soil use and treatment, erosion control practices, and to assist ranchers with range and wildlife management," said Benavides Z.

Trees serve as an important conservation tool on farms and ranches. They are planted as windbreaks and shelterbelts around farmsteads, livestock facilities, and crop fields. Conservation districts are currently promoting the establishment of buffer strips along rivers and streams to improve water quality and wildlife habitat.

The National Association of Conservation Districts has sponsored Soil and Water Stewardship Week in the United States since 1955, in cooperation with the nation's nearly 3,000 soil and water conservation districts. Informative material on Soil and Water Stewardship Week theme is distributed each year through local conservation districts to clergymen, civic and educational organizations, and individuals interested in participating in the celebration.

Information and materials for the 2002 observance of Soil and Water Stewardship Week can be obtained from the Webb Soil and Water Conservation District office at 7209 E. Saunders, suite #7, phone (956) 723-3222 ext. 3.