Welcome!

People depend on soil, water, air, plants, and animals to survive. These natural resources are the source of our food, shelter, clothing, and recreation.

The Resource Conservation District (RCD) of Greater San Diego County provides technical, financial and educational assistance to help both rural and urban communities conserve, protect, and restore these natural resources.

What the RCD Provides

RCD services are wide and varied to meet the diverse needs of the county’s residents, agencies and businesses. The RCD provides soil and water conservation assistance to landowners, homeowners, growers, ranchers, schools, environmental organizations, government agencies, and consultants.

A partial list of available programs and information follows:

• The RCD, in partnership with the USDA’s Natural Resource Conservation Service (NRCS), may provide land users access to technical assistance for conservation practices such as irrigation and water management, erosion and flood control, waste management, and habitat restoration. The San Diego County Soil Survey provides detailed descriptions and classifications of the area's soils and guidance for their usage.

• Information is available to land users on erosion control, fire protection, water saving practices, and pollution prevention.  Information is also available about the RCD’s Fire Safe Council programs including community fire safe councils and fuel reduction programs.  See www.firesafesdcounty.org for information on programs and volunteer opportunities in your community.

• The RCD manages the Tijuana River Valley Community Garden in partnership with the San Diego County Department of Parks and Recreation.  One hundred thirty-six plots are leased to local gardeners.

• Qualifying students can apply for four RCD Conservation Scholarships offered annually.

• The RCD manages the San Diego Garden-based Learning Resource Center.

• The RCD provides access to technical assistance for government agencies for conservation practices such as stormwater runoff, erosion and flood control, and habitat restoration.

• Stormwater presentations provide hour-long, interactive presentations for elementary school classes.