Resource
Conservation
Resource Conservation Districts (RCDs), formerly known as soil conservation districts, are considered special districts within the State of California. Under California law, RCDs are locally-governed agencies with their own locally-appointed and independent board of directors. Soil conservation districts were originally empowered to manage soil and water resources for conservation purposes; however, these powers were expanded in the early 1970s to include "related resources," such as fish and wildlife habitat. In 1971, Soil Conservation Districts were renamed to RCDs to reflect this expansion in scope and powers. Today, there are approximately 102 RCDs in California, including one district in Butte County.