- Home
- Government
- Pitt Soil and Water Conservation District
- Agriculture Support
Agriculture Support
Cultivating a Stronger Agricultural Community
Agriculture has long been part of Pitt County’s story. From family farms to large operations, local producers play a key role in keeping the economy strong, protecting open spaces, and supporting food security for future generations. The Soil & Water Conservation District works side by side with farmers, landowners and community partners to protect the land and water resources that make this success possible.
Benefits for Local Farms and Our Community
Producers and landowners have access to free, hands-on guidance, conservation planning, and financial assistance programs designed to make natural resource management both practical and rewarding. These services help landowners reduce soil erosion, improve water quality, enhance crop productivity, and protect wildlife habitats, all while supporting the long-term health of the community and its agricultural economy.
By participating, landowners gain valuable technical advice, eligibility for state and federal cost-share funding, and support in navigating conservation regulations or best management practices (BMPs). These tools make it easier to balance productivity with stewardship, helping farms thrive while preserving the county’s rural heritage and environmental integrity for future generations.
Whether improving drainage, restoring streambanks, upgrading irrigation systems, or adopting soil health practices, these efforts work together to conserve resources, strengthen agricultural resilience, and ensure local farms continue to prosper.
Building a Sustainable Future for Farming and Working Lands
As more than 1,400 acres of farm and forest land have shifted into municipal areas, working lands continue to shrink. To reduce this loss, these programs expand farmland preservation efforts and encourage keeping agricultural land productive and protected from development pressure.
Conservation Planning & Technical Assistance
Receive personalized support from trained conservation staff who help assess land conditions, develop erosion control plans, design BMPs, and plan long-term conservation strategies. Services may include field visits, mapping, drainage solutions, and farm-specific recommendations that protect soil and water while supporting farm productivity.Cost-Share & Incentive Programs
Programs like the Agricultural Water Resources Assistance Program (AgWRAP) and the Agricultural Cost Share Program (ACSP) help fund on-farm projects such as irrigation improvements, grassed waterways, fencing, cover crops, and stream protection. These programs encourage BMPs that reduce erosion, safeguard water quality, improve efficiency, and increase farm sustainability.
Learn More About Cost-Share & Incentive ProgramsFarmland Preservation Programs
Through Voluntary Agricultural Districts (VADs) and Enhanced VADs, farmers can protect productive farmland from non-farm development, strengthen property rights, and help preserve the agricultural character of Pitt County. Participation promotes community awareness of agriculture’s value while ensuring farms remain a vital part of the local landscape.
Explore Farmland Preservation ProgramsAnimal Waste Management Technical Assistance
Support for livestock and poultry operations to design, maintain, or update waste management systems that meet state environmental standards. Technical staff help producers protect local waterways, improve nutrient management, and sustain productive operations through responsible waste handling and reuse.
Find More Information on Animal Waste Management Technical AssistanceEducation & Outreach
Programs that build agricultural awareness, engage youth and new participants, and inspire greater community involvement. These include classroom lessons, farm tours, Envirothon competitions, conservation field days, and community workshops that connect people of all ages to the importance of natural resource stewardship.