The Wayne SWCD is a political subdivision of the State of Ohio, Ohio Department of Agriculture, Division of Soil and Water Conservation. Each one of Ohio's 88 counties has a local office. The Wayne SWCD was established by local election of the populace in 1947.

The Wayne SWCD (Soil and Water Conservation District) is governed by five board members that are elected from the populous of Wayne County. Each board member serves a three year term as public officials and serve without pay. They are protected from liability by laws which indemnify all SWCD supervisors from personal liability in any civil actions arising from involvement with the SWCD. Board members provide locally led input and guidance to the programs and services provided by the Wayne SWCD. Staff provide the daily services and programs on behalf of the Board of Supervisors.