About
The Dawson County Conservation District was formed on 08/07/1945 and is located in Glendive, Montana, home to Makoshika State Park, the largest state park in Montana. This district does stream permitting, in accordance with 310 Law. The district also holds a water reservation.
The district also has an extensive rental agricultural equipment program, and sells trees, map books & wall maps of Dawson County. The district also has an education and outreach program, including an Outdoor Day for 8th graders in the county.

Montana’s conservation districts partner with private landowners to keep our land and water healthy for the next generation. Led and staffed by locals, conservation districts champion balanced conservation solutions for those that they serve.
What We Do
Stream Permitting
The Dawson County Conservation District administers the Natural Streambed and Land Preservation Act, also known as the “310 Law” on all perennial streams within its jurisdiction, including the Yellowstone River. Any person or entity proposing construction on these waterbodies must seek a permit from the district. There is a joint application form that can also be used for other required permits.
Water Reservations
The Dawson County Conservation District holds a water reservation with 5,525 acre-feet and 44.53 cubic feet per second allocated and 40,330 acre-feet and 286.27 cubic feet per second remaining for future use. Individuals within the district can apply for agricultural use, specifically irrigation. To date, 14 individuals/entities have been authorized to use water within the reservation.
Trees
The tree program is a great way to start a shelterbelt or do a shelterbelt renovation. The district can order from 3 different nurseries, providing an extensive selection at affordable prices
- Call or stop by the office
Rental Equipment
Equipment that can be rented includes seeding drills and manure spreaders..
Call or stop by the office.
Education Events
Outdoor Day for 8th graders and fair booth at county fair.
- Call or stop by the office
Contact
General Contact Information
Glendive, MT 59330
Staff
Cindy Frank
District Administrator
- (406) 948 – 3173
- Cindy.Frank@mt.nacdnet.net
Board Members
Gene Evans
Chair (Joined 2014)
Clay Walker
Vice Chair (Joined 2003)
Jim Ekland
Treasurer (Joined 2009)
Kenny Nemitz
Supervisor (Joined 1976)
Todd Tibbetts
Supervisor (Joined 2019)