A Western Maryland RC&D project proposal can be an activity or project, which is adopted by the RC&D Council as a method for accomplishing its goals and objectives. Proposals should be consistent with addressing problems and opportunities identified in the Area Plan developed by the RC&D Council. Proposals may entail a coordination effort, contributing technical assistance, or the actual carrying out of a particular project.
RC&D Councils are important organizations in the field of resource conservation and development and are expected to have concerns and positions on major issues affecting the area. Project proposals can include, but are not limited to such activities as: land conservation, water management, community development, parks and recreation facilities, rural housing, health and education facilities, transportation and communication needs, energy development and conservation, and economic development.
A proposal for an RC&D activity may be submitted to the Council by private individuals, agency representatives, special interest groups, organizations, or council members and sponsors themselves. Generally, the Council will not act immediately on a proposal, but rather investigate the potential of a particular proposal thoroughly before officially adopting it, usually during a Quarterly Council Meeting.
By adopting the project the Council makes a commitment to help move the activity forward to completion by assuming either an active supporting or leadership role in working with the sponsors of the proposal. Support of proposals by the Council is in the form of providing technical assistance and or staff assistance. The RC&D does not fund projects; however, can help with locating financial assistance. Proposals for projects may be initiated through the local RC&D sponsoring County Commissioners or Soil Conservation District, any appointed Council member, or transmitted to the RC&D office directly. It will be the policy of Western Maryland RC&D to encourage applicants wherever feasible to initiate the proposal with a local sponsor prior to forwarding to the RC&D office for further action.
Upon occasion, situations or proposals may arise which are unable to be handled in this manner due to the quarterly meeting schedule of the RC&D Council. In cases where time is of the essence to capture project resources or provide support to a proposal which would be of great value to the RC&D in accomplishing its plan of work, the RC&D staff and/or RC&D Coordinator may approach the President for tentative approval to assist in the development of a project prior to full adoption by the Council.
Policy approved by Western Maryland RC&D Council (12/2010)
If you have an idea that would benefit a group, community or the region, the Council is always looking for good projects. Proposed projects should describe the needs, problems, benefits, cooperators and sponsors, estimated costs and the type of service requested.