RC&D is an acronym for Resource Conservation and Development. It is an organization and program that seeks to encourage wise use of our natural and human resources as well as economic development that is balanced with the natural environment.

RC&D areas are geographic regions with identified issues and opportunities. Each area is led by a citizens group called a "council". Members work toward common objectives to improve the overall quality of life for residents and the overall quality of our natural resources. 
The 1962 Federal Food and Agriculture Act first created the RC&D program. USDA employees, called RC&D Coordinators, were assigned to help councils develop plans to achieve their objectives. The Resource Conservation and Development concept was first introduced on the local level in 1969. Soil and Water Conservation District supervisors were told a project could assist them in broadening the total resource program effort. Soil and Water Conservation District supervisors held a series of meetings for interested agencies and the public to suggest benefits of a RC&D program. After the idea gained widespread support, an application to plan the project was submitted in March, 1970. Notice of authorization for planning the New River Valley RC&D project was received from the Secretary of Agriculture on September 19, 1972. A project coordinator was assigned by the Soil Conservation Service in January, 1973, with headquarters in Jefferson. 

The Blue Ridge RC&D Council is a 501(c) 3 non-profit, action-oriented organization which has, over the past 30+ years, provided local project sponsors and partners direct grant acquisition and project assistance in generating millions of dollars in funding to implement these projects.

Copyright © 2012 Blue Ridge RC&D