Mission Driven
CT RC&D’s mission is to enrich local communities by cultivating agricultural viability, conserving natural resources, and growing economies.
Working with Purpose
CT RC&D is a partnership-driven organization that acts as a catalyst and convener, bridging gaps across sectors to create, accelerate, and deliver programs that enrich local communities by cultivating agricultural viability, conserving natural resources, and growing economies.
CT RC&D is successful because it:
- works on the ground across Connecticut, illuminating issues of importance.
- aggregates resources and information, which allows it to identify available programs, incentives, and resources for communities.
- identifies critical gaps to be filled and readily moves ideas from concept through implementation.
- leverages the power of partnerships to further its mission.
- embraces new challenges and develops sustainable strategies to meet the needs of Connecticut.
Our Values
Stewardship
We advocate for the conservation of Connecticut’s agricultural and natural resources by promoting resilient systems for today while ensuring sustainability for tomorrow.
Collaboration
We believe in the power of partnerships and grassroots engagement. By fostering cross-sector collaboration, we develop and implement innovative and effective programs, initiatives, and solutions.
Empowerment
We empower those we serve by providing direct services, resources, outreach, and educational opportunities that in turn drive informed and impactful decisions.
Innovation
We embrace creative, forward-thinking approaches to land use, conservation, agriculture, and economic development that respond to the ever-evolving needs of Connecticut’s communities.
Engagement
We value and actively support input and engagement across all communities. We aim to ensure our programs and services are accessible to all.
Respect & Integrity
We maintain a culture of respect where the contributions of all our partners are valued and growth is nurtured. We act with integrity to maintain our partners' trust.
Our Goals
Connecticut Resource Conservation and Development has a number of goals to bring programs to the state that boost the future of agriculture and our natural resources.
Encourage Local Economic Development
Deliver programming that boosts local agriculture, outdoor recreation, and natural resource conservation, which all bring value to the state's economy.
Promote the Sustainable Use of Connecticut’s Land and Natural Resources
Empower and engage municipalities, land trusts, conservation organizations, and communities across Connecticut to adopt responsible land use and natural resource management practices by delivering technical assistance, education, and outreach that fosters long-term environmental stewardship and sustainable development.
Promote the Short and Long-Term Viability of Connecticut’s Agricultural Operations, Lands, and Food Systems
Independently or in partnership, provide outreach, training, and technical support that empowers communities to adopt best practices in soil, water, and crop management and advance innovative agricultural practices that increase productivity, economic viability, sustainability, and resiliency.
Increase Organizational Efficiency and Funding
Enhance CT RC&D’s impact by strengthening internal operations, increasing efficiency, and seeking a variety of funding to support growth and program delivery.