The Franklin County Conservation Department was formed in 1958 when the citizens of Franklin County voted to authorize a conservation board. The department was tasked with acquiring and developing county parks, preserves, forests, wildlife, and conservation areas. The County Conservation Department holds 2,320 acres of prairies, forested areas, small lakes, and preserved nature areas. The Conservation Department was also responsible for cultivating good citizenship by providing adequate programs of public recreation.

The County Conservation Department is under the direction of the Franklin County Conservation Board. The Conservation Board is directly responsible to the residents of Franklin County. The County Board of Supervisors appoints county residents to the Conservation Board. These appointees are chosen on the basis of their demonstrated interest in conservation matters. The Conservation Board operates as a corporate body. It makes decisions regarding the preservation of local natural resources and the development of a well-organized program of public recreation. The Director, employed by the Conservation Board and responsible to the Conservation Board, implements the conservation program.

The Franklin County Conservation Board meets the second Wednesday of each month at 7:30 pm, at the Maynes Grove Lodge on Highway 65, south of Hampton. The meetings are open to the public and visitors are welcome.

FCCB 2008 Board Members
Bruce Harris, Hampton
Dave Keninger, Ackley
Mike Weese, Hampton
Brian Tegtmeyer, Hampton
Rick Rieken, Hampton