Southern Maryland Resource Conservation & Development Council Spotlight
Nurturing Healthy Communities, Enterprises, and Ecosystems
Southern Maryland Resource Conservation & Development (RC&D) Council is an organization dedicated to promoting the well-being of communities, businesses, and ecosystems. With a focus on environmental conservation, climate resilience, and education, they have established themselves as a vital force in Maryland. In a recent interview, we spoke with the representatives of Southern Maryland RC&D to learn more about their guiding principles and ongoing initiatives.
One of the core principles of Southern Maryland RC&D is fostering healthy communities. Through partnerships and initiatives, they actively address climate resiliency needs. Their newest collaboration is with one of the first resilience authorities in the state of Maryland.
Southern Maryland RC&D's dedication to healthy enterprises is reflected in their work with the Rural Legacy Program. As a certified land trust, they hold conservation easements that preserve valuable natural resources. By leveraging this program, they contribute to the sustainable management of land and promote the longevity of local enterprises. Their efforts extend to the development of infrastructure, such as a large farmer's market, which serves the tri-county area and beyond, supporting local agricultural businesses.
Conservation and environmental education play a vital role in Southern Maryland RC&D's mission. They actively engage in shoreline restorations, safeguarding the delicate balance of coastal ecosystems. To promote ecological awareness, they have launched a new program called Eco Sunday School. This free environmental education initiative offers classes on various topics, including a special focus on native plants. By nurturing healthy ecosystems, Southern Maryland RC&D contributes to the overall well-being of the region.
Southern Maryland RC&D has established fruitful collaborations through its cooperative agreement with the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) since 2013. As part of this agreement, Southern Maryland RC&D helps the NRCS effectively promote their programs to landowners. The organization plays a pivotal role in the recruitment and placement of employees, ensuring the right individuals are selected to meet the NRCS's needs. This partnership has been mutually beneficial, with both organizations working together to achieve common goals.
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Southern Maryland RC&D's commitment to healthy communities, enterprises, and ecosystems is evident through their various initiatives and partnerships. By addressing climate resiliency needs, preserving natural resources, and promoting environmental education, they are actively working towards a sustainable future. Their cooperative agreement with the NRCS highlights the power of collaboration in achieving common goals. Southern Maryland RC&D's efforts serve as a model for organizations dedicated to creating a harmonious balance between humans and the environment. |
New Process to the 2023 Hugh Hammond Bennett Awards
The National Conservation Planning Partnership (NCPP) created the Hugh Hammond Bennett Awards for Conservation Excellence in 2017 to honor the legacy of Hugh Hammond Bennett by recognizing producers and conservation planners from within the NCPP partnership who have exemplified outstanding service through development and implementation of sound conservation planning and other conservation techniques.
This year, we are looking to slightly change the process. Instead of having the nomination form open in the Fall, we are planning to open the nomination form on July 1st with a deadline of September 1st. This change is to ensure there is a sufficient amount of time to engage the regional award process. More information to come in NCPP's next message later this month.
Thank you for your continued support and commitment to NCPP and we look forward to receiving your nominations!
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