Hobby Farms
- Rowan Davenport-Smith
- May 27
- 2 min read
Updated: Aug 4
Resources for your Farm (Grants, Knowledge, Support)
What is an RCD?
Established under Division 9 of the California Public Resources Code, Resource Conservation Districts (RCDs) are local entities created to protect and manage natural resources. Their primary focus includes conserving soil and water, managing runoff, preventing erosion, safeguarding water quality, managing watersheds, and supporting water storage and distribution efforts.
RCDs are special districts of the State of California, governed locally by independent boards of directors who are either elected or appointed. These districts operate as non-regulatory agencies, working directly with landowners and communities to promote responsible resource management and education on both public and private lands.
Serving as crucial connectors between federal, state, and local conservation initiatives, RCDs help coordinate and implement a wide range of resource management activities, including:
Water quality protection and enhancement
Agricultural land conservation
Soil and water management
Irrigation management
RCDs play a vital role in advancing sustainable practices and building resilient communities through hands-on conservation efforts and collaboration across all levels of government.
Feel Free to contact Danielle as she is Board of Director's Vice President of SCC Loma Prieta RCD.
Understanding the USDA, FSA, NRCS, and CRP
The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) and its agencies—the Farm Service Agency (FSA) and the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS)—are federal organizations committed to supporting farmers, ranchers, and landowners. These agencies provide vital resources, including grants, technical assistance, and educational programs, to promote agricultural success and sustainability.
See some of the organizations below:
A Primer on CRP
The Conservation Reserve Program (CRP), administered by the Farm Service Agency (FSA), is a voluntary program that encourages agricultural producers and landowners to convert highly erodible and other environmentally sensitive acreage to vegetative cover, such as native grasses, trees, and riparian buffers.
By enrolling in CRP, participants receive annual rental payments and cost-share assistance to establish long-term, resource-conserving vegetative covers. The program helps to improve water quality, control soil erosion, and enhance wildlife habitat, contributing to overall environmental health and sustainability.
Comments