RC&D is a US Department of Agriculture (USDA)
program that was authorized by the Food and Agriculture Act of 1962. The
purpose of the RC&D program is "to accelerate the conservation,
development, and utilization of natural resources to improve the general
level of economic activity, and to enhance the environment and standard of
living in authorized RC&D areas."
The RC&D program
assists rural residents to improve social, economic, and environmental
conditions in their communities. The RC&D program helps to fulfill and
address the extensive and diverse needs of rural development and the needs
and concerns of citizens at the local level. RC&D areas are locally
organized, sponsored and led by a council that provides direction and
creates an annual plan from the local needs. RC&D's cooperate and
partner with federal, state, local, and private agencies. The USDA
provides technical and financial
assistance.