1. SOIL & WATER CONSERVATION DISTRICT FUNDING Angela P. White, Ph.D.

2. Lesson Objectives  Recognize Financial Responsibilities of SWCD Directors.  ID Sources of SWCD Funding.  Discuss State Law Pertaining to SWCD Finances.  ID Fundamental Financial Management Practices for SWCD.

3. Financial Responsibility  To be accountable for the wise use of entrusted public monies.

4. Sources of Annual SWCD Operating Funds  State  Local Governments  Other  Grants  Donations  Revenue Generating ­ Technical Services ­ Sales ­ Rental Programs

5. Statewide SWCD Funding State (DCR) = 70% $4,052,240 (FY 2006-2007) Local = 20% Other Sources = 10%

6. State Funding Two Types of State Funding Operating Funds  SWCDs now a line item in DCR budget.  VSWCB Policy provides “essential” funding and additional provisions.  Funds administered through a grant agreement.  DCR recommends “Director Support” in the amount of $500/director/year for training and travel. Program Funds (Cost-Share) Typically used for water quality improvement.

7. Local Government Support  Varies from District to District.  Local Donors  County  City  Town

8. Other Funding Sources  Grants  Donations  Conservation Equipment Rental Programs  Sales  Interest Income  Other Services

9. How Are District Funds Spent?  Essential Funding is used for district operations:  Employee Salaries & Fringe Benefits  Rent, Office Supplies, & Equipment  Conservation Equipment & Purchases  Educational Activities  Training, Meetings, & Publicity  Cost-Share Funding & Grants  Designated use for specific programs and activities.

10. State Law Requirements § 10.1-535 Bonds of officers and employees; records and accounts The district directors shall (i) provide for the execution of surety bonds for all employees and officers who shall be entrusted with funds or property; (ii) provide for the keeping of a full and accurate record of all proceedings and of all resolutions, regulations, and orders issued or adopted; and (iii) provide for an annual audit of the accounts of receipts and disbursements by the Auditor of Public Accounts or a certified public accountant approved by him.

11. Meeting Legal Requirements Bonding Plans and Reports ­ Minutes ­ Annual Plan of Work ­ Annual Report ­ Financial Reports ­ Inventory Lists Audits At least once every 2 years

12. Fundamental Financial Management Practices Basic understanding of SWCD financial accounts. Develop & Adhere to Annual Budget. - Consideration of Unexpended Funds - Projected revenue & expenses - Detail of actual income & expenditures for the last year. - Estimate of staff and costs to accomplish proposed activities. - Narrative summary. Approved Purchasing Policy.

13. Financial Management Practices Continued Review of Treasurer’s Reports. Compliance w/ Audit Findings. Team Approach to Account Management. Refer to Desktop Guide for District Fiscal Operations.

14. Final Thoughts  #1 Responsibility = Financial Accountability  Refer to “Course Documents” to review the following documents:  Annual Plan  DCR Operating Agreement  Budget  Purchasing Policy