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South Central Mountain RC&D serves
Lincoln and Otero Counties and covers 7.3 million acres. The South Central
Mountain RC&D Area was incorporated in 1967 and received nonprofit
status in 1992. The Council is made up of 27 local sponsors.
Major natural resource issues and
concerns of the Council are regional water planning, watershed restoration,
forest health and conservation education. Water quantity and quality issues
are the Council's highest priority. Community and economic development
are additional issues being addressed by the Council.
Turning a resource problem into
an economic opportunity is the focus of a major project for the Council.
Selective thinning and harvesting of dense stands of juniper and Ponderosa
pine has proven to benefit watersheds by creating more diverse vegetation
and increasing ground cover. These management techniques reduce erosion,
enhance recharge of shallow aquifers and improve habitat for wildlife and
livestock. Thinning also provides raw materials, which traditionally have
been used for fuel and fencing. This project seeks to expand the uses of
juniper and Ponderosa pine and to develop technology for industrial application
of these materials.
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The sign industry has been identified as a potential
customer for a new product similar to plywood, but made from juniper chips
and recycled plastic. This manufactured panel would be used by the sign
industry to replace Douglas fir marine-grade plywood or aluminum sheets.
This project will not only provide employment opportunities for local residents
in land restoration, harvesting, panel production and sign finishing, but
will also result in healthier grasslands and woodlands for improved watersheds.
The
Council's role as a vehicle for rural development program implementation
is being realized though completion of numerous projects benefiting many
small communities. The Rural Community Assistance Program of USDA's Forest
Service found a willing partner in the RC&D Council, who acted as a
catalyst in getting community involvement.
Examples of projects include museum
renovation, recreation facilities, parks, visitor centers and outdoor amphitheaters.
The involvement of community members serving as volunteers in project planning
and implementation has been a key to the success of the program.
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