Okla. Stat. tit. 27A, § 27A-3-1-102: Legislative determination - Declaration of policy

In recognition of the ever-increasing demands on the renewable

natural resources of the state and of the need to preserve, protect

and develop such resources at such a rate and at such levels of

quality as will meet the needs of the people of the state, it is

hereby declared to be the policy of the State of Oklahoma to provide

for the conservation of the renewable natural resources of this

state, and for the control and prevention of soil erosion, and for

the prevention of floodwater and sediment damages, and for

furthering the conservation, development, utilization and disposal

of water, and thereby to preserve and develop natural resources,

control floods, conserve and develop water resources and water

quality, prevent impairment of dams and reservoirs, preserve

wildlife, preserve natural beauty, promote recreational development,

protect the tax base, protect public lands and protect and promote

the health, safety and general welfare of the people of this state.

It is further the policy of the Legislature to authorize

conservation districts established under the Conservation District

Act to serve as the primary local unit of government responsible for

the conservation of the renewable natural resources of this state,

and competent to administer, in close cooperation with landowners

and occupiers, with local governmental units, and with agencies of

the government of this state and of the United States, projects,

programs and activities suitable for effectuating the policy of the

Conservation District Act. Provided, however, in those areas

included within the existing jurisdiction of planning commissions

created pursuant to the provisions of Titles 11 and/or 19, of the

Oklahoma Statutes or their successors, such districts shall serve as

the collateral units of government so responsible.