§3451 Definitions

Summary

It gives simple definitions for a program that helps local groups plan and get federal help for conserving land, water, and improving rural communities. Area plan — a locally led plan that can include four kinds of work: land conservation (to control erosion), water management (to save and improve water for irrigation, flood control, reservoirs, farm water systems, and water quality), community development (to boost rural industries, water and waste systems, recreation, housing, health and education, transport, and food security/economic development), and land management (energy conservation, keeping farmland, and protecting habitats). Board — the Resource Conservation and Development Policy Advisory Board. Council — a nonprofit group of local volunteers or officials picked by a State to run an area plan and get help. Designated area — the place the Secretary chooses to receive help. Financial assistance — grants, loans, or cooperative agreements from the Secretary (or with other federal agencies) to help councils with planning, studies, training, and related activities. Indian tribe — has the meaning given in section 5304 of title 25. Local unit of government — counties, cities, towns, townships, parishes, villages, or local special districts like school, park, soil, water, or sanitary districts. Planning process — the locally led steps to make and carry out an area plan, including goals, actions, reviews, and public input. Nonprofit organization — an entity described in 26 U.S.C. 501(c) and exempt under 26 U.S.C. 501(a). Project — work a council does to meet an area plan. Secretary — the Secretary of Agriculture. State — any State, the District of Columbia, or any U.S. territory or possession. Technical assistance — services from the Secretary or an agent, such as inventories, planning, design, supervision, maps and reports, help with carrying out plans, and using USDA program resources locally.