About Southwest Nebraska RC&D

Area Description

Southwest Nebraska RC&D serves the eight counties of Chase, Dundy, Frontier, Furnas, Hayes, Hitchcock, Perkins and Red Willow. This area covers 4,184,426 acres. There are 34 incorporated towns and a population of 35,920. Small town survival is vital to the area as 77 percent of the residents live in communities with population less than 2,000. The RC&D area has experienced a decline in population over the past four decades.

Agriculture is the base of the economy, which fluctuates with markets and growing conditions. About one third of the cropland is irragated (676,500 acres) with water supplied from wells. Due to continuing drought conditions, surface water irrigation is very limited.

Opportunities to improve the area's natural resources and economic conditions include tourism, sustainable agriculture, regional colaboration and the integration of new technology. One of the area's greatest assets is its residents - their work ethic, visions for the future and strong family values provide the basis for the exceptional quality of life in Southwest Nebraska.

Priorities of Southwest Nebraska RC&D

• Economic Development
• Water & the Environment
• Promotion-Publicity
• Community Improvement

Summary of Activities

• 12 Council Meetings
• 19 Projects Completed
• 20 On-going Projects
• 47 Project sponsors
• 91 Partners
• 1,610 Council member hours contributed
• 2,140 Volunteer hours contributed

Visit our Website at www.swrcd.org