About the Duval Soil & Water Conservation District
A locally governed public body dedicated to the conservation of Duval County's natural resources — established under Florida law and accountable to the people we serve.
Our Mission
To promote the conservation, protection, and restoration of Duval County's soil, water, and related natural resources through education, technical assistance, and community partnerships — for the benefit of present and future generations.
Stewardship
We hold our natural resources in trust for future generations, promoting responsible use and long-term conservation.
Community
We serve every resident, landowner, farmer, and educator in Duval County — conservation is a shared responsibility.
Science
Our programs and recommendations are grounded in sound science, best practices, and partnerships with leading research institutions.
Accountability
As a public body governed by elected supervisors, we are transparent, accessible, and accountable to the citizens of Duval County.
Our History
Soil and Water Conservation Districts were established across the United States following the Dust Bowl of the 1930s, when widespread soil erosion devastated American farmland and communities. Florida established its conservation district program under Chapter 582 of the Florida Statutes, creating a network of locally governed districts to address soil and water conservation at the county level.
The Duval Soil & Water Conservation District was established to serve Jacksonville and Duval County — one of Florida's most diverse counties, encompassing urban neighborhoods, suburban communities, agricultural lands, and extensive coastal and inland waterways including the St. Johns River.
Over the decades, the District has evolved alongside Duval County — expanding its programs to address urban stormwater, native landscaping, water quality, and environmental education alongside its traditional agricultural conservation mission.
Legal Authority & Structure
The Duval Soil & Water Conservation District is a special-purpose unit of local government established under Chapter 582, Florida Statutes — the Florida Soil and Water Conservation Districts Law. The District operates independently of county government and is governed by a five-member Board of Supervisors.
Three supervisors are elected by registered voters in Duval County during general elections. Two supervisors are appointed by the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS). All supervisors serve four-year terms and receive no compensation for their service.
The District works in close partnership with the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, UF/IFAS Extension Duval County, the Florida Department of Environmental Protection, and the St. Johns River Water Management District.
Florida Statute Chapter 582
The Florida Soil and Water Conservation Districts Law governs the establishment, powers, and operations of all 67 conservation districts in Florida.
Meet the Board of Supervisors
The Duval Soil & Water Conservation District is guided by community leadership committed to responsible stewardship of our soil, water, and natural resources. Meet the individuals serving our District and community.
Ashley Riley-Newby
Board Supervisor & Secretary
ElectedAshley Riley-Newby serves as a Board Supervisor and Secretary for the Duval Soil and Water Conservation District, bringing extensive experience in financial management, corporate accounting, and strategic business operations to the role. As an accountant and business consultant, she has spent her career establishing strong fiscal structures, managing corporate compliance, and directing financial oversight for multiple successful commercial enterprises. A graduate of Florida A&M University (FAMU), Ms. Riley-Newby began her professional career within corporate banking and financial services. This background in institutional finance and regulatory compliance provides her with relevant experience in overseeing the District's budget, promoting transparent resource allocation, and maintaining adherence to applicable county and state financial guidelines. Deeply invested in the Jacksonville community, Ms. Riley-Newby is dedicated to advancing the District's mission of environmental stewardship and natural resource conservation. Her combination of financial expertise and civic commitment supports responsible management of the District's conservation initiatives.
Dr. Stanley McAllister Jr.
Board Supervisor
ElectedDr. Stanley McAllister Jr. serves as a Board Supervisor for the Duval Soil and Water Conservation District, bringing a strong background in civic advocacy, community mobilization, and organizational leadership to the role. Throughout his career, Dr. McAllister has focused on building regional stability, developing grassroots outreach initiatives, and implementing community-based solutions to structural challenges. As a pastor and the founder and Chief Executive Officer of Pipeline 2 Possibilities, Dr. McAllister has experience directing community development projects, managing resource compliance, and coordinating with local stakeholders. His professional history of working to expand urban agricultural opportunities, establish community gardens, and address local food deserts aligns with the District's mission to protect and responsibly manage regional land and natural resources. Deeply invested in the growth and resilience of the Jacksonville area, Dr. McAllister is dedicated to transparency, high ethical standards, and effective community representation. His combination of civic leadership and community development experience supports the District's efforts to remain responsive to Duval County residents.
Skylar McKnight
Board Supervisor
ElectedSkylar McKnight serves as a Board Supervisor for the Duval Soil and Water Conservation District, bringing experience in business implementation, regional sales operations, and grassroots organizational strategy. As a partner at S&K Consultant Group, Mr. McKnight has spent over a decade developing operational and marketing procedures for diverse commercial and real estate enterprises. In addition to his corporate background, Mr. McKnight is an advocate for community development and local resource equity. As the visionary behind The People's Market, he has worked to establish sustainable mobile food solutions and expand access to fresh, healthy food in underserved and rural communities. His experience addressing food access challenges and managing regional supply distribution aligns with the District's interests in urban agriculture, soil health, and stronger local food systems. Deeply involved in the Jacksonville civic community, Mr. McKnight also serves as Vice Chairman of the Jacksonville Black Chamber of Commerce and leads community support initiatives focused on regional stability. His combination of logistical expertise, business experience, and community outreach supports the District's commitment to responsible resource management and community engagement.
Byron Jones-McAllister
Board Supervisor
ElectedBoard meetings are open to the public. All Duval County residents are welcome to attend and participate.
Public Meetings
The Board of Supervisors holds regular public meetings in accordance with Florida's Government in the Sunshine Law (Chapter 286, Florida Statutes). All meetings are open to the public and advance notice is provided as required by law.
Meeting Schedule
Regular meetings are held monthly. Check the District's announcements for current dates, times, and locations.
Public Participation
Members of the public are welcome to attend all Board meetings. Public comment opportunities are provided on agenda items.
Meeting Notices
Meeting notices are posted in accordance with Florida's Sunshine Law requirements. Agendas are made available prior to each meeting.
Minutes & Records
Minutes of all Board meetings are maintained as public records and are available upon request in accordance with Florida's Public Records Law (Chapter 119, Florida Statutes).
Our Partners
USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS)
Federal technical and financial assistance for conservation practices on agricultural and private lands.
Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS)
State oversight of Florida's conservation district program and agricultural conservation initiatives.
UF/IFAS Extension Duval County
Research-based education and outreach on horticulture, agriculture, natural resources, and environmental stewardship.
Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP)
State environmental regulation, water quality programs, and conservation land management.
St. Johns River Water Management District (SJRWMD)
Regional water resource management, watershed protection, and water quality programs for Northeast Florida.
Florida Association of Soil & Water Conservation Districts (FASWCD)
Statewide association supporting Florida's 67 conservation districts through advocacy, training, and coordination.
Ready to Get Involved?
Attend a public meeting, explore conservation resources, or contact the District to learn how you can help protect Duval County's natural resources.