Centre County Government

There are a number of active conservation organizations in the County comprised of individuals who are dedicated to preserving and protecting our environment. This is a guide to these groups.

The Headwaters Resource Conservation and Development Council (RC&D) is a non-biased, rural development program focusing on the conservation, development, and utilization of area resources to improve the standard of living. It joins forces with individuals, agencies, and groups to improve the social, economic, and environmental opportunities of the local area.

The RC&D program was established by federal legislation in 1962. This act directs the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to help units of government conserve and properly utilize all resources in solving local issues. Citizens who are aware of the opportunities first hand provide leadership and work together to set program priorities. A variety of individuals, government agencies, organizations, environmental groups, and business institutions provide assistance to these people in accomplishing their program goals.

Centre County is a member of this 8-county, non-profit organization formed to coordinate both public and private agencies for projects developed to address the needs of the counties in the Headwaters Resource Conservation and Development Area.

• Pennsylvania Association of RC&D Councils (PARCD)
• PARCD 2005 Annual Report [5MB PDF]
• Pennsylvania Resource Conservation and Development Councils Brochure [PDF]

Centre County Natural Heritage Inventory is a document that outlines significant natural places through investigation of plant and animal species and natural communities that are unique or uncommon in the county.