Section 21.1.4. Soil conservation division.

In addition to the duties outlined in subrule 1.1(4), the director of the soil conservation division advises the secretary on soil and water conservation matters and works with the state soil conservation committee in the adoption of rules relating to soil conservation, water resources, and mining. The division performs duties as designated in the Code of Iowa. The bureaus of the soil conservation division are as follows:

       1.4(1) Field services bureau. This bureau works with elected soil and water conservation district commissioners and division of soil conservation personnel assigned to soil and water conservation districts. The bureau also coordinates water quality and watershed protection projects awarded to soil and water conservation districts.

       1.4(2) Financial incentives bureau. This bureau works to control erosion on all agricultural land and administers incentive programs for the establishment of land treatment measures. The bureau also provides assistance and guidance to soil and water conservation districts.

       1.4(3) Mining bureau. This bureau provides for the reclamation and conservation of land affected by surface mining. The bureau carries out coal regulatory and abandoned mine land programs and also regulates limestone and gypsum quarries, sand and gravel pits, and other mineral extraction operations.

       1.4(4) Water resources bureau. This bureau coordinates water resources programs, including agricultural drainage well closures, watershed project development, and the conservation reserve enhancement program. The bureau also provides technical support on wetland issues, nutrient management, and other division programs.