Tri-Isle RC&D ... Who We Are

In 1962, Congress established a unique program within the U.S. Department of Agriculture that empowered rural communities to improve themselves while protecting and developing their natural resources. Local councils would provide direction, planning, coordination, and implementation of specific projects within their boundaries.

The focus on local direction and control has made Resource Conservation and Development one of the most successful rural development programs of the Federal Government. To date, three hundred eighty five RC&D areas have been authorized throughout the Country. Over 70,000 projects have been adopted nationwide since 1964, of which more than 50,000 have been completed.

Hawaii’s four RC&Ds, cover all the major Islands. Through the leadership of Maui County's five Soil and Water Conservation Districts and with assistance from the Soil Conservation Service, Tri-Isle RC&D Council, Inc., the oldest of the Hawaii RC&D areas, was established in 1970.

The Tri-Isle Council meets on a quarterly basis and is made up of a 17 member Board of Directors who bring a variety of backgrounds and professional expertise to the organization. The office staff includes the Program Manager, NRCS Coordinator, Administrative Assistant and Financial Assistant. The Council membership includes:

• 5 members from Maui County’s Soil and Water Conservation Districts
• 4 members from County Departments
• 8 at-large members from the community

RC&D provides a mechanism for local residents to work together and actively solve economic, environmental, and agricultural problems. We help utilize the abilities, knowledge and energy of local volunteers to get projects done. Interested groups may approach Tri-Isle for project sponsorship by submitting an application to the Council.

With the advantage of both the on-going partnership with the USDA NRCS, and as a non-profit 501(c)3 organization, Tri-Isle RC&D Council, Inc. is able to leverage many resources. We obtain project funding from federal, state and private grants as well as from individual contributions.

The Council has taken a strong leadership role in agricultural development, community economic development, watershed protection and invasive species control. Tri-Isle RC&D has managed 44 active projects during the past year on Lana'i, Maui , and Moloka’i.

The two main project purposes are to protect the natural resource base while promoting its wise use; and to improve economic conditions and provide opportunities in rural areas.

Nathan Varns Coordinator		Stuart Funke-d'Egnuff Program Manager		Evelyn White Administrative Assistant
For more information contact: Tri-Isle RC&D Council, Incorporated 210 Imi Kala Street Suite 208 Wailuku, Hawaii 96793 Phone: 808-244-3100 ext. 5 Toll Free: 877-465-0519 ext. 5 Email: tri.isle@gmail.com

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