RC&D Overview
Over 40 years ago, Congress established a unique program within the U.S. Department of Agriculture that empowered rural people to help themselves. The USDA focus was to assist local people by providing tools and technical support to stabilize and grow their own communities while protecting and developing natural resources. To carry out the RC&D concept, diverse groups of local volunteers (The RC&D Council) are brought together in a unique partnership to find solutions to their problems. Local people are best able to determine needs and create solutions for their Community. The focus on local direction and control has made RC&D one of the most successful rural development programs of the Federal Government. The focus of the program provides for the sustainability of local economies and resources.
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The History of South Centré Corridors RC&D Council
Back in 2000, a small group of committed volunteers formed a steering committee to discuss RC&D and how it might impact this part of Virginia. Our boundaries were drawn and application was prepared ands submitted to the United States Department of Agriculture. We were formally authorized as South Centré Corridors RC&D by Secretary of Agriculture Ann Veneman in January 2002.
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Our Mission
Developing partnerships to advocate and promote the conservation, preservation, and development of our resources to enhance the quality of life in the region.
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Our Vision
For the area was and still is "a place where our children and grandchildren are proud to call home because of the abundant recreational opportunities, a sustained agriculture economy, preservation of the rural character, enhanced environmental quality and the existence of vibrant, safe urban areas."
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Our Goals
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Promoting environmental educational opportunities to adults and youth
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Increaseing the use of bes management practices in rural and urban areas
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Improving water quality of impaired streams
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Improving revitalization of urban and rural areas
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Increasing recreational opportunities
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Creating and retaining businessess through entrepreneurial education and training opportunities
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Providing educational opportunities to farmers and landowners on agriculture and forestry
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Increasing the use of bio-energy alternatives to reduce greenhouse gas emissions
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