About
What is RC&D? It involves a partnership between volunteers of the local community in a designated RC&D area and the Natural Resources Conservation Services, US Department of Agriculture (USDA). The RC&D Program was first authorized by the Food and Agriculture Act of 1962, Public Law 87-703. The 2002 Farm Bill provides permanent funding for the RC&D Program to improve the communities quality of life.
The RC&D Mission is to "promote the conservation and development of the natural resource base" and involves people working together to solve challenges in their local communities. The Southeast Mississippi RC&D Council, Inc. 501(c)3 non-profit organization, works with local partners to provide solutions for local concerns.
The Council has spearheaded such projects as: dry fire hydrant installation, development of a tourism association, education for underserved forest landowners, Progressive Farmer Farm safety Field Day for youth, environment education, urban conservation landscaping workshops, and water quality and quantity issues.
Southeast Mississippi RC& D spans a 12-county area in southeast Mississippi. County Soil and Water Conservation Districts and the Pat Harrison Waterway District sponsor the program, and the director serves as the Chairman. Volunteers serve as representatives of the Council and are appointed by the sponsors to serve two-year terms.
