The Ocean County Soil Conservation District and the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service invite community members, landowners, conservation professionals, and interested residents to participate in the 2026 Local Working Group meeting. This important community driven event will take place on Tuesday, February 24, from 4:00 pm to 6:00 pm at the Rutgers Cooperative Extension of Ocean County, located at 1623 Whitesville Road in Toms River. Registration is required to attend.
Local Working Groups are a cornerstone of the USDA NRCS locally led conservation approach. These meetings provide a space for people who live and work in the region to share their firsthand knowledge of local natural resource challenges and opportunities. Input gathered during the meeting helps guide conservation priorities and informs how technical assistance and funding are delivered at the local and state level.
The Local Working Group brings together a diverse group of participants including farmers, foresters, landowners, agency staff, nonprofit organizations, educators, and community members. By working collaboratively, the group identifies resource concerns that are most relevant to Ocean County such as soil health, water quality, wildlife habitat, flooding, and land management pressures. These discussions help ensure that conservation programs reflect real local needs and conditions.
Attendees can expect an open and inclusive discussion focused on identifying conservation concerns and potential solutions. Participants will have the opportunity to share observations from their own work or community, learn more about available USDA conservation programs, and connect directly with NRCS and Soil Conservation District staff. The feedback collected during the meeting contributes to conservation planning efforts across New Jersey.
Community participation is essential to the success of locally led conservation. The knowledge and perspectives shared during the Local Working Group help shape future projects and partnerships that protect working lands and natural resources throughout Ocean County. Whether you manage land, work in conservation, or simply care about the health of your local environment, your voice matters.
The 2026 Ocean County Local Working Group will be held on Tuesday, February 24, from 4:00 pm to 6:00 pm at the Rutgers Cooperative Extension of Ocean County in Toms River. Registration here. Additional information and registration details are available through the Ocean County Soil Conservation District.
We encourage you to join the conversation and help guide conservation priorities for our community.
