Coal and coalbed natural gas development are vitally important to the regional, state and national economies. Continued development of these energy resources is a high priority but the pace and scale of energy sector development strains communities and landscapes. Transportation, emergency services, affordable housing, water supplies and wastewater are critical to regional quality of life. Conserving sensitive fish and wildlife species is an important consideration. Conversion of land for energy development or residential growth should also be accompanied by effective land use planning in order to protect the vitality of agriculture.

Objectives

A)           Provide assistance to regional communities and organizations seeking to solve problems related to growth impacts – 10 projects by 2011.

Strategies

i)           Work with County governments to assess community infrastructure and basic service needs.

ii)         Provide grant research assistance as requested.

iii)        Assist with recycling, housing, recreation, water supply and land use planning related projects as approved by the RC&D Board.

iv)       Assist with conservation planning efforts by agencies and governments.