AG 2002 08 19 (Regular) - Laserfiche WebLink

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REVISED CHARACTERISTICS OF AN EFFECTIVE RESOURCE CONSERVATION & DEVELOPMENT (RC&D) APPLICATION N RCS has 41 applications for the FY2002 round of designations of new RC&D Areas by the Secretary of Agriculture. The USDA RC&D Working Group made up of representatives from ten agencies evaluate each application. Previous application reviewers identified the following characteristics consistently present in the most effective applications: Clear and concise statement o__f purr~os~e. The application clearly shows the intent of the application sponsors andRC&D Council in forming ;he RC&D and what they wish to accomplish. It clearly shows that the Council will be a leader in defining, supporting, and leading collaborative activities across agencies and organizations in accomplishing Council priorities. ~emon, str,ated understanding of the .RC&D Pro_gran~ The application shows that the participating organizations in the Area understand the Program's r~ission and processes and is willing to work with NRCS and other USDA agencies. It is clear the application is for RC&D, not EDA, EZ/EC, etc. The application recognizes the need to build parmerships with other organizations in the Area. The application shows that the Council/Committee knows of and recognizes actions of other groups and organizations in the RC&D Area. They clearly understand what relationship and fit is with the new RC&D Area. The new RC&D will not duplicate activities of other organized groups. The applic ,ation_ also shows what consequences could be of not havin an _, _ g P,_C&D. Document a clear understanding of natural resource needs. The application describes the natural problems and opportunities facing the Area. Based on this, the application identifies options for meeting these and assigns priorities to their problems and to their proposed solutions. D,e,,monstrated that the,,plannin~ process was inclusive and representative of the .Ar,~.o'~ communities. The RC&D Council or Committee held numerous and well-documented public strategic planning meetings. Applications contained documentation of outreach to' specific population categories (such as non-English speakers, minorities, or unemployed residents). The application also documented how the RC&D Council/Committee will continue to be inclusive and representative of the area's communities in the implementation of the RC&D strategic area plan. D~o_cume,nt a clear understanding of community needs. The application describes the social and economic problems facing the Area. Based on this, the application identifies options for meeting these challenges and assign priorities to their problems and to their proposed solutions. ~u ilding p.artnerships, .with USDA age, ncie~s. The application describes if the Area is working with other USDA agencies. If not, it describes what relationship they plan to develop and how they will utilize programs and expertise of other USDA agencies. ~Age of armlication,.,s. The longer the applicant area has been in place, the application should be ~-fi-pplernented to document more extensive elements of accomplishments and partnerships and refinement of the strategic plan.