Voluntary Stewardship Program
Lewis County is one of 27 counties throughout Washington that has opted into the Voluntary Stewardship Program. This program uses an innovative watershed-based, incentive-based process to protect critical areas, promote viable agriculture and encourage cooperation among diverse stakeholders.
Finding balance & common ground between environmental and economic needs
Fish & wildlife habitat conservation
Protect wetlands, geologically hazardous areas, critical aquifer recharge areas & frequently
flooded areas
Maintain or enhance production
Avoid uneccessary regulations
Greater market flexibility
Financial incentives
Reduce inputs
How do I get involved?
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Email Kelly Verd at kelly.verd@lewiscdwa.com to get started on a VSP plan!
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We will come out to your property, note what conservation practices you are already implementing and, if desired, recommend additional practices. Decisions are completely voluntary, and all reported information is kept confidential. Nothing is shared with state officials beyond general, non-identifying statistics.
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Join our mailing list to be notified when we host VSP workshops!
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Workshops cover topics ranging from pasture management and equine health to learning about native bats and amphibians and everything in between.
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Sit in on one of our VSP Work Group meetings!
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Work Group meetings occur four times per year on the third Tuesdays of January, April, July and October from 6:00 - 8:00 p.m. at our office, 2057 Salsbury Ave, Chehalis, WA 98532 (Room 36) and virtually. Join us on Zoom here. View past meeting minutes here.
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What's been accomplished so far?
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Read our biennial reports:
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Check out our VSP Work Plan, which guides our county specific implementation.