Economic Development

Environmental quality is the most essential component to future economic development. The Somerset Conservation District has sponsored projects and established cooperative ventures with other natural resource agencies and organizations that have fueled and enhanced the economic vitality of Somerset County and the entire region.

The significant water quality improvements in the Stonycreek and Casselman River watersheds have created tourism destination points that have provided millions of dollars of economic activity. The Allegheny Highlands Trail, which was devised and initiated by the District, has been an economic catalyst to the entire region. The public acquisition of the Manufacturers Water Company properties, which the district again played a key role in acquiring, has generated additional opportunities in recreational and industrial economic activity.

These represent a few of the District's natural resource endeavours that positively influence the economic vitality of the county and region every day.

Click here to see how clean water directly improves economic vitality.