Frequently Asked Questions

Question:            Why should my RC&D Council go to the trouble of applying for membership?

Answer:  The Circle of Diamonds program is an excellent way to showcase your Council's achievements in good management and effective community involvement, and many Councils are justifiably proud of their membership in the Circle of Diamonds. The program is designed to give recognition to Councils for the good work they do in their local communities, to recognize that they are good stewards of their non-profit organization and to publicize their good standing among their peers.

The program was set up to be proactive approach for councils to clearly demonstrate that they are complying with the basic requirements of the RC&D statute, the council responsibilities outlined in the NRCS manual, and best non-profit management practices.    

Question:            How many Councils are members of the Circle of Diamonds?

Answer:  As of July 2011, almost two thirds of all Councils are members: 245 out of 375 Councils.

Question:            How much does it cost to be a member?

Answer:  There is no charge to be a member of the Circle of Diamonds. However, your Council must be a dues-paying member of the National Association RC&D Councils to be eligible for consideration.

Question:            Why do we have to provide references?

Answer:  References provide a means of verifying the information provided. Additionally, the enthusiasm that references demonstrate is effective testimony that can be used with Congress, governors, and other officials who can influence funding for the program.

Question:            You are asking for a great deal of information that takes time to assemble, leaving less time to “Make Things Happen.”

Answer:  Most of the information requested should be readily available if a Council is operating effectively. Much of the data is used to provide us with a total look at what is going on in the field.

Question:            We are a small Council and do not complete many projects each year. Will this affect our chances?

Answer:  The number of projects is just one of many items that are considered in granting Circle of Diamonds status. What is more important is how you are operating as a Council with regards to assistance in improving the quality of life for the residents.

Question:            Once a member of the Circle of Diamonds, what happens next?

Answer:  Your Council name will be placed on the honor roll and will appear on our website as a Circle member. Hopefully you will then strive to step up the level of your work and apply for the Enhanced Level of membership and later the Premier Level.

Question:            Much emphasis is placed on outreach and publicity. Again, this takes time away from the job.

Answer:  RC&D often has been referred to as the best kept secret in Agriculture. In today’s tough times, it is more important than ever to get the word out that RC&Ds do great things and that funding should be increased. Spreading the word will help this cause greatly.