Illinois RC & D Introduction to R esource C onservation & D evelopment Module 3: What makes it run?

Objectives Describe Area Plan Describe content & development of Area Plan Describe uses of Area Plan Describe process of project proposal development RC&DRC&D

The Area Plan Planning is the basis of all NRCS assistance, including RC&D.

What is the Area Plan? 5-year document Based on public input Endorsed by Council Legal document between NRCS & Council Foundation of Annual Plans Drives entire program

Content & Development Minimum Area Plan Requirements Mission Vision Needs & opportunities of RC&D Area Goals & objectives Strategies for addressing needs, including partnerships Timeframe Compliance Statements Signatures

Mission Purpose of RC&D Area How Council accomplishes purpose Example: Southwestern Illinois RC&D is a regional not for profit organization that works on issues and projects that accelerate the conservation, development, and utilization of natural resources to improve the quality of life and to expand the economic base through natural resources.

Vision Statement of outcome of Area Plan implementation Example: Prairie Rivers – Local people, working in partnership, to ensure a healthy environment, prosperous economy, and an enhanced rural culture.

Needs & Opportunities: Required Elements Land Conservation Erosion control More…

More Required Elements… Land Management & Other Environmental Objectives Energy conservation Ag land protection Fish & wildlife habitat protection More…

More Required Elements… Community Development Natural resources based industry Community water supply Improvements to: ―Rural housing ―Transportation ―health, recreational & educational facilities More…

More Required Elements… Water Management Flood prevention Water quality Irrigation water management

Goals, Objectives & Strategies Goals Broad areas to address to achieve the vision Objectives Quantifiable achievements that accomplish goals Strategies Activities & projects that achieve objectives More…

Strategies include: Required Partnerships USDA agencies Optional Partnerships Other federal agencies State agencies Local governments Organizations More Goals, Objectives & Strategies…

Timeframe Goals & objectives are time-bound within the 5-year planning period.

Compliance Statements Non-discrimination clauses “No Member to Benefit” statements Drug-free workplace

Signatures Council Chair Council Secretary NRCS State Conservationist John Doe

Optional Material State partnerships Governor’s endorsement Budget & cost projections Staffing plan Documented public input ―SWCDs ―County Boards ―Organizations ―Locally engaged people ―Agencies (state & federal)

Uses of the Area Plan Council direction Outreach & marketing Fundraising Partnering Establishment of a firm foundation Defensible support & documentation for activities

Activity Develop a Project Proposal Land conservation Land management Community development Water conservation

Activity continued… Council Consideration Committee assignment Initiate planning process Identify possible collaborating groups associated with project proposal Implement plan

Summary √ Describe Area Plan √ Describe content & development of Area Plan √ Describe uses of Area Plan √ Describe process of project proposal development

The USDA is an equal opportunity provider and employer. R C & D Illinois R C & D