The Resource Conservation and Development Program (RC&D) is a voluntary program that helps people protect and develop their economic, natural, and social resources.  Program objectives address improving the quality of life, including social, economic, and environmental concerns; continuing prudent use of natural resources; and strengthening local citizens’ ability to use available sources of assistance through the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and other Federal agency partnerships.   The program began in February 1964 under authority of Section 102 of the Food and Agricultural Act of 1962 (P.L. 87-703) and other Departmental authorities.  The program is administered by the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), in cooperation with other USDA agencies.

Mission: To promote cooperative partnerships, educate, provide leadership and

     information, and utilize resources to benefit area residents. 

Background and Structure of the Council: South Central Nebraska RC&D Council was authorized for USDA assistance by Secretary of Agriculture Dan Glickman on March 18, 1998.  The Council received notice of 501(c)(3) tax-exempt status from the U. S. Internal Revenue Service on June 6, 2000.

Membership on the South Central Nebraska RC&D Council is “… open to all county and community boards, city councils, service clubs, chambers of commerce and interested non-profit organizations or individuals who reside within the counties of the South Central Nebraska RC&D Council area and which choose to participate and pay membership fee as determined by the Council. Other individuals and groups not meeting the residency requirements may submit a membership request for consideration by the RC&D Council.”  Leadership of the RC&D Council consists of a five-member executive committee – president, vice-president, secretary, treasurer and past president.