The Saginaw Bay RC&D (Resource, Conservation and Development) is located in the middle eastern part of lower Michigan. The counties in which we cover are: Arenac, Bay, Clare, Genesee, Gladwin, Gratiot, Huron, Isabella, Lapeer, Livingston, Midland, Saginaw, Sanilac, Shiawassee, and Tuscola.

RC&D is an exciting partnership between the Federal government and a local nonprofit organization led by local community leaders.

The areas are locally-sponsored areas designated by the Secretary of Agriculture for RC&D technical and financial assistance program funds.

Our main focus is on conservation, development, and utilization of natural resources to improve the standard of living. The purpose of the RC&D program is to encourage and improve the capability of volunteer, locally elected, civic leaders in designated areas to plan and carry out projects for resource conservation and community development. Within project areas, several counties and conservation districts work as a team to improve the social, economic, and environmental opportunities for citizens of the area. Each area is governed by a Council composed of representatives of each sponsor. Each Council establishes its own governing policies and develops programs to fit local needs. Generally, projects are related to four areas: Land Conservation, Community Development, Environmental Needs, and Water Management.

Our Vision is to enhance quality of life in the Saginaw Bay Watershed by maintaining a sustainable natural resource base for future generation.

The RC&D program helps people care for natural resources and improve the quality of life in their communities. The RC&D Council (volunteers representing public and private sector sponsors and other local organizations) undertake community driven actions that are strategically focused on regional resource conservation and economic viability. RC&D priorities are set by area residents to meet their needs.

Seven RC&D areas have been authorized in Michigan. These include: Conservation Resource Alliance established in 1969, Upper Peninsula RC&D established in 1971,  Huron Pines RC&D established in 1972, Sauk Trails RC&D established in 1975, Potawatomi RC&D established in 1991, Saginaw Bay RC&D established in 1992, and the Timberland RC&D established in 1994. The Southeast Michigan RC&D is pending approval of the Secretary of Agriculture.