The State Conservation Commission (SCC) members and staff provide the organizational framework for dispensing technical expertise and conservation program delivery to 47 conservation districts. These districts provide critical connections for conservation program delivery to local land owners. They provide technical and educational assistance and incentives to land owners that are willing to implement conservation measures to improve, enhance, and/or protect soil, water, air, plants, and animal resources. Districts identify critical natural resource issues and goals through the development of five-year plans, annual plans, and budget requests for conservation program implementation.

SCC staff provide guidance and oversight to the conservation districts, assuring compliance with state and federal requirements, compliance with open public meeting regulations, annual and long range planning, annual reporting of accomplishments, district operations reviews, assistance with internal audits, and oversight of elections and appointment processes. The emphasis is on quality of leadership, public service, and conservation program delivery that addresses natural resource issues across the state.

SCC members oversee state funding for the conservation districts and provide guidance and policy direction to the Executive Director for Commission staff to implement. Members examine issues pertaining to the rights and needs of the conservation district community and make recommendations to the Governor, Legislature, and state agencies for changes in programs and laws. This activity supports agency functions by providing leadership, cross-program support, and staff presence throughout the state. Operations and Administration manages the agency's long-term financial health and provides the information to support sound decision-making and resource management. It also provides human resource services, facility and vehicle management, maintains the agency's centralized records and library resources, responds to public records requests, and certifies conservation district elections and appointment processes.

Implement the Voluntary Stewardship Program (RCW 36.70A.700-790) in 28 counties. Agency responsibilities include: Manage contracts with each of the 28 counties; provide technical assistance to county staff in the implementation of the program; manage statutorily established State Technical Panel and Statewide Advisory Group; review, processes, and where appropriate approve each of the 28 county VSP work plans; provide reports to the legislature and governor as required; develop and identify fiscal needs for program implementation in future biennia; implement other elements of the VSP statute.