The Benton Conservation District has completed construction of its new headquarters at 3131 Belmont Ave. in West Richland.

The 4,804-square-foot facility includes 2,271 square feet of office space, a 2,072-square-foot shop and a 461-square-foot mezzanine for additional storage.

The office includes workspace for up to 10 staff, along with a conference room for meetings and community workshops. The shop is designed to accommodate large equipment storage and maintenance and includes an enclosed yard for aquatic plant harvesters and other district equipment.

The new building will serve as the district’s headquarters for operations, meetings, workshops and equipment storage. 

The project cost $1.8 million.

Construction was completed June 1.

The Benton Conservation District, established in 1942, provides technical and financial assistance to landowners, agricultural producers and community members seeking science-based conservation solutions that promote healthy soils, clean water, sustainable agriculture and resilient natural systems throughout Benton County. 

As the district’s programs expanded over the past 80 years, its Board of Supervisors spent more than 15 years planning and saving for a permanent facility to bring staff, operations and equipment together under one roof while better serving residents throughout the county.

The building also was designed with conservation in mind. District staff completed the landscaping, which includes a demonstration Heritage Garden showcasing native plants and low-water landscaping adapted to Benton County’s arid climate.

Cliff Thorn Construction served as the general contractor.

Design West Architects designed the project.