Community & Economic Development

California’s rural communities play a crucial role in supporting the world’s fifth largest economy. RCRC member counties feed the state, nation and globe. The vast majority of water consumed by California residents, agricultural producers and industry originate in California’s rural communities. In addition, RCRC counties are home to stunning national parks and forests, mountains, deserts and the Pacific Ocean. Most importantly, RCRC member county residents are self-sufficient, resourceful and innovative. Yet, despite the multitude of opportunities provided by the abundant natural resources in these rural areas, many continue to face challenges due to systemic disinvestment. Innovative policies and programs are needed to strengthen and grow critical and emerging industry sectors to attract the family-wage jobs our rural communities need to fully participate in the 21st Century Economy. The loss of traditional industries such as timber production and mining have not been adequately replaced with other comparable industry clusters that provide new employment opportunities. RCRC is dedicated to bolstering these core industries while simultaneously working to support and advance new and existing economic opportunities that leverage the natural strengths and advantages of our member counties and their regional economies.

RCRC staff work with the network of economic development professionals representing our member counties, to support or catalyze programs and projects that result in job creation and investment opportunities.

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