Resource Conservation and Development (RC&D)

Resource Conservation and Development (RC&D) is a program of the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA). The program, administered by USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) was created in 1962 and is based on the assumption that local citizens -- through RC&D councils -- with help provided through the USDA, can develop and carry out an action-oriented plan for the economic, social and environmental enrichment of their communities.

The RC&D Program promotes conservation, development, and use of natural resources to improve economic activity, and to enhance the environment and standard of living in all communities. The program’s aim is to provide a system for rural development, encourage the wise use of natural resources, and improve the quality of life.

RC&D areas are locally organized, sponsored and led. Members of the RC&D Council are recruited from the local community and empowered with leadership responsibilities. USDA provides technical and financial assistance through NRCS, while local sponsors secure additional funding and in-kind services for RC&D projects.

Massachusetts has three RC&D areas: Berkshire-Pioneer (Berkshire, Franklin, Hampden and Hampshire counties), Patriot (Essex, Middlesex, Norfolk, Suffolk and Worcester counties) and Pilgrim (Barnstable, Bristol, Dukes, Nantucket and Plymouth counties).

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Massachusetts RC&D fact sheet (210 KB)
Patriot RC&D Area brochure (300 KB)
Pilgrim RC&D Area brochure (185 KB)

Links to RC&D websites

• Berkshire-Pioneer RC&D Area, Inc.
• Patriot RC&D Area Council, Inc.
• Pilgrim RC&D Area Council, Inc.
• National Association of Resource Conservation and Development Councils

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