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About the RCD |
Sonoma Creek Watershed |
Resource Conservation Districts (RCDs) are the states' only grassroots conservation delivery system that identifies local conservation problems and guides solutions on a voluntary basis. There are 103 Districts throughout California - each covering a different geographic territory. Our District covers Sonoma Creek Watershed from Kenwood to the Bay, Petaluma River Watershed and the upper half of Stemple Creek Watershed in Sonoma County. As a Special District, our annual operating funds come from a small portion of Sonoma County property taxes assessed within our District boundaries. With that money (approximately $34,000 annually) we operate an office and employ a District Manager, Watershed Coordinators, an Engineering Technician, and an Administrative Secretary. Our activities are driven by the volunteerism of five appointed directors, who are local landowners. They establish District priorities, set policies and guidelines, and oversee general operations. The goal of our District is to advise, inform, and educate our community. We provide free technical assistance and field advice to property owners who need it. Much of our time is invested in looking for funding that will help our community address local conservation needs.We are committed to efforts to develop a land stewardship ethic that promotes sustainability throughout the County. We enjoy a special partnership with the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS). Through a cooperative agreement, the NRCS works directly with local RCDs, providing technical and administrative assistance, empowering landowners with best management practices on their lands, and providing financial support of locally led conservation. The District is housed within the NRCS Petaluma Field Office and Area Office as well as next door to the USDA Farm Service Agency. The Petaluma Field Office staff serves the Marin and Sonoma County region and in addition to our District, they also partner with the Gold Ridge, Sotoyome, and Marin RCDs. The NRCS provides office space directly to our District as well as phone service, vehicle use, and access to an extensive technical library and respository of maps and aerial photography. The SSCRCD would not be in the position it is today without the generous support of the USDA NRCS in terms of provision of rent, utilities, office equipment, phones and the technical advice and cooperation on mutual projects. The District considers our success and ability to serve our constituents greatly influenced by the direct contributions and support by NRCS. We appreciate and applaud our NRCS conservation partners. Your federal and local tax dollars are at work for you! |
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©2004 Southern Sonoma County Resource Conservation District |