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The Basics of RC&D: An Overview The RC&D program is a unique combination of private enterprise and Federal assistance that encourages the blending of natural resource use with local economic and social values. 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 utilize available sources of assistance through Federal and State agencies, and other public and private entities. The RC&D program provides a form of "facilitated self-help" for conservation and economic development in communities across the Nation. RC&Ds respond to the needs of their local communities, both for conservation issues and for economic development through volunteer Councils. Each RC&D is a multi-jurisdictional, locally defined geographic area designated by the Secretary of Agriculture through a competitive process to receive assistance. The designated RC&D area is sponsored and directed by a council consisting of volunteers representing public and private sector sponsors, other local organizations and the local communities. These organizations represent a diverse cross-section of community interests. RC&D - Relationship with USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service Basic support provided to designated RC&D areas by USDA is primarily through the Natural Resources Conservation Service and includes a full-time RC&D coordinator, part-time office administrator or other staff, some office space, some supplies, and a vehicle. This basic assistance allows the RC&D Councils to focus their efforts on improving their communities through project implementation rather than fundraising for base operations. Nationally, an annual appropriation for direct support to the RC&D program is made by Congress. This provides funds for each designated Council. These funds are dispensed directly from NRCS in each state and do not flow through the Council directly unless there is a cooperative agreement for services executed. RC&D - The Nonprofit Organization The USDA RC&D Program provides assistance to locally controlled, independent RC&D Councils, which are nonprofit organizations. The most effective and flexible form of nonprofit organization is the 501(C)(3) organization, which is tax exempt under the IRS. The nonprofit RC&D organization is the controlling local entity for the RC&D efforts in the region. RC&D, the federal program works in close partnership with RC&D, the local nonprofit entity. The RC&D nonprofit entity bears the legal and fiduciary responsibilities of the activities of "~ the RC&D. You will learn more about the RC&D organization in the next section I'~,o '* of this guidebook.