LAFCO
Resource Conservation District
Read the report at Local Agency Formation Commissions ↗
Resource Conservation District
of Santa Cruz County
Service and Sphere of Influence Review
Adopted Version (September 3, 2025)
Local Agency Formation Commission of Santa Cruz County
701 Ocean Street, Room 318-D Santa Cruz, CA 95060
Website: www.santacruzlafco.org
Phone: (831) 454-2055
TABLE OF CONTENT
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY ........................................................................................................... 2
Introduction ............................................................................................................................ 2
District Overview .................................................................................................................... 2
Key Findings........................................................................................................................... 3
Recommended Actions .......................................................................................................... 4
DISTRICT OVERVIEW .............................................................................................................. 6
History .................................................................................................................................... 6
Services and Operations ........................................................................................................ 6
Population and Growth ..........................................................................................................10
FINANCES ...............................................................................................................................12
Revenues ..............................................................................................................................13
Expenditures .........................................................................................................................13
Assets & Liabilities.................................................................................................................14
Fund Balance / Net Position ..................................................................................................15
GOVERNANCE ........................................................................................................................18
Legal Authority ......................................................................................................................18
Local Accountability & Structure ............................................................................................19
Management Efficiencies.......................................................................................................19
Opportunities and Challenges ...............................................................................................20
SPHERE OF INFLUENCE ........................................................................................................23
Cortese-Knox-Hertzberg Act ..................................................................................................23
Current Sphere Boundary ......................................................................................................23
DISTRICT SUMMARY ..............................................................................................................25
SERVICE AND SPHERE REVIEW DETERMINATIONS ..........................................................26
Service Provision Determinations ..........................................................................................26
Sphere of Influence Determinations .......................................................................................27
APPENDICES...........................................................................................................................28
Appendix A: Strategic Plan (2020-2024) ................................................................................28
Appendix B: Strategic Partnerships (List) ..............................................................................28
Appendix C: Coastal Region RCDs (Map) .............................................................................28
Resource Conservation District Service & Sphere Review Page 1 of 28
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Introduction
This Service and Sphere of Influence Review provides information about the services and
boundaries of the Resource Conservation District of Santa Cruz County. The report will
be used by the Local Agency Formation Commission to conduct a statutorily required
review and update process. The Cortese-Knox-Hertzberg Act requires that the
Commission conduct periodic reviews and updates of Spheres of Influence for all cities
and districts in Santa Cruz County (Government Code section 56425). It also requires
LAFCO to conduct a review of municipal services before adopting Sphere updates
(Government Code section 56430). The District’s last service review was adopted on
October 7, 2020.
The service review process does not require LAFCO to initiate changes of organization
based on service review conclusions or findings; it only requires that LAFCO make
determinations regarding the delivery of public services in accordance with Government
Code Section 56430. However, LAFCO, local agencies, and the public may subsequently
use the determinations and related analysis to consider whether to pursue changes in
service delivery, government organization, or spheres of influence.
Service and sphere reviews are informational documents and are generally exempt from
environmental review. LAFCO staff has conducted an environmental review of the
District’s existing sphere of influence pursuant to the California Environmental Quality Act
(CEQA) and determined that this report is exempt from CEQA. Such an exemption is due
to the fact that it can be seen with certainty that there is no possibility that the activity in
question may have a significant effect on the environment (Section 15061[b][3]).
District Overview
The Resource Conservation District of Santa Cruz County (“RCD” or “District”) was
formed as an independent special district in December 1977 to help people protect,
conserve, and restore natural resources through information, education, and technical
assistance programs. The RCD has ongoing projects that promote natural resource
conservation in relation to farming and ranching operations and watershed-based habitat
restoration. The District’s services and programs focus on reducing soil erosion, off-farm
sediment transport, non-point source pollution, salmonid and wildlife recovery, and
improving ecosystem health. The District encompasses the unincorporated county lands
as well as the City of Capitola. The Cities of Santa Cruz, Scotts Valley, and Watsonville
are excluded from RCD’s jurisdictional boundary. An overview map is shown as
Figure 1 on page 5.
Sphere of Influence
Santa Cruz LAFCO adopted the first sphere of influence for RCD on December 19, 1983.
The District’s sphere is the entire County of Santa Cruz, including all four cities. The last
sphere update occurred in August 2015. Figure 8 on page 24 shows the current sphere
of influence boundary. LAFCO staff is recommending that the sphere boundary be
reaffirmed as part of this service and sphere review.
Resource Conservation District Service & Sphere Review Page 2 of 28
Key Findings
The following are key findings of the 2025 Service and Sphere of Influence Review for
the Resource Conservation District of Santa Cruz County:
1. The District provides services countywide.
The RCD was formed in 1977 following the consolidation of two existing conservation
districts: Pajaro Soil and Redwood Soil Conservation Districts. In 1983, the City of
Capitola was annexed into the District. While the remaining three cities are not within
the District’s jurisdiction, RCD has developed strategic partnerships with those cities
and other local governments to help protect, conserve, and restore natural resources
through various services and programs. At present, RCD has over 60 strategic
partnerships at the local, state and federal level.
2. The District offers timely resources involving wildfire prevention, resiliency, and
recovery.
The RCD has a long history of collaborating with local community and agency
stakeholders to provide residents with educational and cost share assistance to
reduce wildfire threat. The District also collaborates with CAL FIRE, Fire Districts, Fire
Safe Councils, and others to identify high priority areas for fire breaks and other fuel
management projects as outlined in the Community Wildfire Protection Plan, and the
newly developed Regional Priority Plan of the Santa Cruz Mountains. The Forest
Health and Wildfire Resiliency Program also provides a number of services to
residents, including chipping, fuel load reduction around homes and structures, fire
breaks in wildlands, ecosystem restoration to reduce risk of catastrophic wildfire,
wildfire awareness and resilience education, and post-fire recovery of the land.
3. The District is financially sound.
The RCD’s primary source of revenue is from Grants. In FY 2023-24, Grant funds
represented approximately 70% of the District’s entire revenue source. Based on
LAFCO’s analysis, RCD has experienced a surplus in four consecutive years (2020
to 2024). LAFCO staff believes the positive trend may continue as the District focuses
on obtaining substantial grant funding while keeping costs down on an annual basis.
4. The District is complying with website requirements under State law.
Senate Bill 929 was signed into law in September 2018 and requires all independent
special districts to have and maintain a website by January 1, 2020. It outlines
minimum website data requirements agencies must provide including contact
information, financial reports, and meeting agendas/minutes. While RCD maintains a
website, it does not meet all of the requirements outlined in SB 929. At present, the
website is missing five of the 20 statutory benchmarks. LAFCO recommends that the
District update their website for more transparency and awareness for its constituents
by no later than August 31, 2026.
5. The District’s sphere of influence is countywide.
Santa Cruz LAFCO designated the first sphere of influence for RCD in December
1983. The District’s sphere is the entire County of Santa Cruz, including
unincorporated and incorporated areas. The last sphere review occurred in October
2020. The sphere boundary has remained unchanged since its original adoption. Staff
is recommending that the sphere for RCD be reaffirmed as part of this service review.
Resource Conservation District Service & Sphere Review Page 3 of 28
Recommended Actions
Based on the analysis and findings in the 2025 Service and Sphere of Influence Review
for the Resource Conservation District of Santa Cruz County, the Executive Officer
recommends that the Commission:
1. Find that pursuant to Section 15061(b)(3) of the State CEQA Guidelines, LAFCO
determined that the sphere of influence review is not subject to the environmental
impact evaluation process because it can be seen with certainty that there is no
possibility that the activity in question may have a significant effect on the environment
and the activity is not subject to CEQA;
2. Determine, pursuant to Government Code Section 56425, the Local Agency
Formation Commission of Santa Cruz County is required to develop and determine a
sphere of influence for the Resource Conservation District of Santa Cruz County, and
review and update, as necessary;
3. Determine, pursuant to Government Code Section 56430, the Local Agency
Formation Commission of Santa Cruz County is required to conduct a service review
before, or in conjunction with an action to establish or update a sphere of influence;
and
4. Adopt a Resolution (LAFCO No. 2025-09) approving the 2025 Service and Sphere of
Influence Review for Resource Conservation District of Santa Cruz County with the
following conditions:
a. Reaffirm the District’s current sphere of influence;
b. Update the District’s website to fulfill the statutory requirements under Senate Bill
929 no later than August 31, 2026 and provide a status update to the Commission
on the District’s website no later than September 2, 2026; and
c. Direct the Executive Officer to distribute a copy of the adopted service and sphere
review to the Resource Conservation District for their records and to include on
their website.
Resource Conservation District Service & Sphere Review Page 4 of 28
Figure 1: Vicinity Map
Resource Conservation District Service & Sphere Review Page 5 of 28
DISTRICT OVERVIEW
History
The Resource Conservation District of Santa Cruz County is an independent special
district that operates pursuant to the Resource Conservation District Act (California
Resources Code Section 9151 et seq.). The formation of this public agency was a result
of a consolidation between two conservation districts: Pajaro Soil and Redwood Soil
Resource Conservations Districts. The Pajaro Soil RCD was originally formed in 1941
and served the southern portion of the County. The Redwood Soil RCD was originally
formed in 1949 and served the central portion of the County. In 1977, the Directors of the
two Districts petitioned the Board of Supervisors and LAFCO to consolidate the two
agencies and extend the boundaries countywide. The Commission approved the
consolidation on December 29, 1977. The City of Capitola was later annexed into the
District in 1983. The District’s service area (encompassing about 419 square miles) has
remained the same since 1983, as shown in Figure 1 on page 5.
Services and Operations
While RCD has no regulatory or enforcement functions, its mission focuses on helping
residents protect, conserve, and restore natural resources through information,
education, and technical assistance programs. The RCD has ongoing projects that
promote natural resource conservation in relation to farming and ranching operations and
watershed-based habitat restoration. These projects fall within three main program areas:
Watershed Restoration, Stewardship in Agriculture, and Forest Health & Wildfire
Resiliency. Projects focus on reducing soil erosion, water conservation on farms, off-farm
sediment transport, non-point source pollution, salmonid and wildlife recovery, and
improving ecosystem health and resilience to climate change. The District carries out
various core programs and services focused on conservation, restoration, and technical
support across the unincorporated areas of Santa Cruz County. RCD’s primary business
and governmental emphasis are summarized below. These services and programs are
listed in Figures 2 and 3 on pages 8 and 9. These efforts are also emphasized in the
District’s adopted strategic plan, shown in Appendix A.
Technical and Educational Assistance
RCD provides non-regulatory, voluntary guidance and planning for private landowners,
farmers, and rural communities on natural resource issues such as erosion control, soil
conservation, water quality, water conservation, habitat management, and watershed
health. RCD also offers conservation education for landowners, agricultural producers,
and the community addressing topics like fire fuels management, stormwater, and
irrigation efficiency, among others.
Grant Writing, Project Design & Funding Coordination
RCD develops resource conservation plans, feasibility studies, and grant proposals to
secure funding from local, state and federal agencies and private sources on behalf of
landowners, agencies, and municipalities. In many cases, RCD acts as a grant manager
and coordinates multi-million-dollar grant funds to support local implementations across
multiple properties, while receiving a fraction of that amount from property taxes
Resource Conservation District Service & Sphere Review Page 6 of 28
(approximately $42,000/year). While it varies from year to year, the RCD leverages each
tax dollar, on average, to bring over $33 of state, federal and other funds to Santa Cruz
County. For example, in June 2025, the RCD secured a $7 million grant from CAL FIRE
to implement forest health interventions across 830 acres of public and private lands in
the Santa Cruz Mountains.
Regulatory & Permit Coordination
RCD created a “one-stop-shop” Permit Coordination Program (Partners in Restoration)
to streamline CEQA compliance and expedite approvals from multiple agencies such as
the State Regional Water Boards, Coastal Commission, and county authorities. The RCD
also developed a Forest Health and Fire Resiliency Public Works Plan which provides
cost-effective, programmatic permitting for forest health and fuels management projects
to reduce the threat of catastrophic wildfire and improve ecological conditions for forests,
woodlands, and grasslands specifically within the coastal zone.
Habitat Enhancement & Watershed Restoration
RCD leads watershed and habitat restoration efforts, such as streambank stabilization,
wetland enhancement, tributary restoration, forest health and rare habitat management.
The District supports endangered species recovery including but not limited to salmonids
and the Santa Cruz long-toed salamander. RCD also champions the Integrated
Watershed Restoration Program (IWRP), which includes county-wide assessment,
design, outreach, monitoring, and coordinated implementation of watershed restoration
projects. In July 2025, RCD, in partnership with the San Lorenzo Valley Water District,
held a public tour of the Habitat and Wildfire Resilience Project they completed in
partnership near Felton. This project removed invasive vegetation to reduce wildfire risk
and protect endangered Sandhills habitat while ensuring water supply protection.
Erosion Control, Rural Roads & Fire Fuels Management
RCD provides technical assistance for rural road design, drainage improvements,
sediment basin installation, and erosion control to reduce runoff and protect water quality.
The District also implements wildfire prevention and fuel load reduction programs,
including funds from CAL FIRE for forest health treatments, prescribed burning, thinning,
invasive species removal, and post-fire restoration across forested areas.
Aquifer Recharge & Stormwater Management
RCD advises on stormwater management practices and managed aquifer recharge as
part of improving groundwater resilience and water quality within agricultural and rural
lands.
Community Outreach & Engagement
RCD offers educational resources, newsletters, workshops, public outreach forums, and
volunteer opportunities including but not limited to habitat planting events or invasive
species removal on local lands. Additionally, RCD offers free or reimbursed
wood‑chipping services for homeowners living in wildfire‑prone areas for defensible
space creation. The RCD served over 400 households with the chipping program in 2024.
Resource Conservation District Service & Sphere Review Page 7 of 28
Figure 2: RCD Services1
• RCD provides assistance with securing permits and established the Permit
Coordination program which streamlines the permitting process for 15 different
types of conservation projects.
Permitting
• RCD provides technical assistance to landowners, farmers, ranchers, and other
land managers regarding various conservation practices including erosion control,
Technical hydrologic analysis, and GIS mapping.
Assistance
• RCD offers forums for understanding and learning about conservation of natural
resources for landowners, land managers, K-12 and college students, and the
general public. This forums include workshops, tours, internships, and volunteer
Education opportunities.
• RCD helps with applying for grant programs and access to other cost-sharing
assistance opportunities.
Financial
Support
• RCD offers services that help address water conservation, erosion control, nutrient
management, and attracting pollinators.
Helping
Farmers
• RCD has services for financial or technical assistance with grazing and range
management as well as mud and manure management.
Supporting
Ranchers
• RCD offers natural resource conservation assistance to all property owners and
land managers within its district. Most common requested services include fire
Assisting prevention, rural roads, and erosion control.
Landowners
1 RCD Webpages: https://www.rcdsantacruz.org/request-services
Resource Conservation District Service & Sphere Review Page 8 of 28
Figure 3: RCD Programs2
• RCD provides services and publications for landowners, growers, and producers
interested in practices that support maintaining agricultural viability, while protecting
natural resources.
Agriculture
• RCD offers the Forest Health and Fire Resiliency Program which provides a number
of services including chipping, fire breaks in wildlands, promoting wildlfire
Fire awareness and prevention, post-fire watershed recorvery, and funding.
Resiliency
• RCD offers the Livestock and Land Program which teaches best practices to
livestock owners, provides educational publications, and hosts workshops and other
hands-on training.
Livestock
•RCD started the Recharge Net Metering Program with the help of UCSC and the Pajaro
Valley Water Management Agency. This 5-year pilot program provides a financial
incentive to landowners in the form of a rebate for building a managed aquifer recharge
Aquifer
system on their property.
Recharge
• RCD helps identify erosion and drainage problems, develops erosion control plans,
and provides cost-sharing assistance to help construct road improvement projects
Rural on both private and public roads.
Roads
• RCD offers other unique programs including early mitigation planning for
transportation projects, community water dialogues, and the integrated watershed
Special restoration program.
Programs
•RCD has become a leader and innovator in habitat restoration projects by implementing
several practices, including wetland restoration, invasive species removal, removal of
fish passage barriers, fish stream improvement, upland wildlife habitat, and sediment
Species
management.
Recovery
2 RCD Webpages: https://www.rcdsantacruz.org/programs-and-projects
Resource Conservation District Service & Sphere Review Page 9 of 28
Program Highlight: Forest Health and Wildfire Resiliency
Santa Cruz County is continually threatened by catastrophic wildfire, particularly in the
wildland-urban interface. Local topography and fuels make the County subject to periodic
wildfires. Combined with 100 years of effective fire suppression, these conditions have
led to uncharacteristically high fuel loads. This threat has been felt countywide due to the
recent fires. The RCD has a long history of collaborating with local community and agency
stakeholders to provide County residents with educational, technical and financial
assistance to reduce wildfire threat and to collaborate with Cal Fire and other local experts
and stakeholders to identify high priority areas for fire breaks as outlined in the Community
Wildfire Protection Plan and the newly developed Regional Priority Plan of the Santa Cruz
Mountains. The Forest Health and Wildfire Resiliency Program provides a number of
services to Santa Cruz residents, including:
• Chipping: Once vegetation is cleared around homes and neighbors for compliance
with defensible space guidelines, the material can be chipped and spread on-site to
reduce the risks of wildfire to homes in fire prone areas.
• Fuel Load Reduction around homes and structures: State Law requires that any
person that owns, leases, controls, operates, or maintains a building or structure in,
upon or adjoining any land covered with flammable material shall at all times maintain
100 feet of defensible space. The RCD can provide assistance to landowners that
require clearing of flammable materials or creating defensible space on their property,
while ensuring that sensitive habitats are considered.
• Fuel Load Reduction/Fire Breaks in Wildlands: The RCD employs fuels
management to reduce the threat of wildfire on private and public forestland.
Hazardous fuels are reduced through a variety of treatments which remove or modify
wildland fuels, thereby reducing the potential for severe wildland fire behavior,
lessening post-fire damage, minimizing soil erosion and the impacts to water quality,
enhancing wildlife habitat, and limiting the spread of invasive species and diseases.
• Promoting wildfire awareness and prevention: The RCD promotes wildfire
awareness and prevention by creating and distributing educational outreach materials
to County residents and partner agencies. These resources, including the Living with
Fire in Santa Cruz County Guide, RCD Chipper Program Flyer, Defensible Space
Trifold and Firescaping with Appropriate Plant Lists, are available on the District
website. The RCD also works with partner organizations to sponsor workshops to
provide information and cost share assistance for wildfire prevention and recovery
strategies.
• Post-Fire Recovery: Working closely with their federal partner, the UDSA Natural
Resources Conservation Service, the RCD offers post-fire recovery to the community
in times of need. These services include on-site technical and planning services to
assess post-fire land conditions and recommend appropriate actions, concerning
potential harmful debris runoff, erosion and drainage issues, stream impacts, tree
health, winter preparedness, private road and culvert damage, and hillslope stability.
The RCD can also provide permit assistance for post-recovery actions and help
agricultural and forest landowners find and navigate potential funding resources to
reduce the cost burden of restoring and protecting the land.
Resource Conservation District Service & Sphere Review Page 10 of 28
Population and Growth
Based on staff’s analysis, the population of the RCD service area in 2025 is estimated to
be 148,000. The Association of Bay Area Governments (ABAG) and the Association of
Monterey Bay Area Governments (AMBAG) provide population projections for cities and
counties in the Coastal Region. Official growth projections are not available for special
districts. In general, the Coastal Region is anticipated to have a slow growth over the next
twenty years. Table A shows the anticipated population for each local agency within RCD.
The average rate of change is 1.18%.
Population Projection
Based on the projections for Santa Cruz County and the City of Capitola within the
District’s service area, LAFCO staff was able to develop a population forecast for RCD.
Staff increased the District’s 2025 population amount by 1.18% each year. Under this
assumption, LAFCO staff projects that the entire population of the RCD service area will
be approximately 152,000 by 2040.
Table A: Projected Population
Average Rate
2025 2030 2035 2040
of Change
Santa Cruz County
137,896 139,105 140,356 141,645 0.96%
(unincorporated area)
City of Capitola 10,312 10,451 10,622 10,809 1.39%
Resource
148,208 149,556 150,978 152,454 1.18%
Conservation District
Source: AMBAG 2018 Regional Growth Forecast
Disadvantaged Unincorporated Communities
State law requires LAFCO to identify and describe all “disadvantaged unincorporated
communities” (DUCs) located within or contiguous to the existing spheres of influence of
cities and special districts that provide fire protection, sewer, and/or water services. DUCs
are defined as inhabited unincorporated areas within an annual median household
income that is 80% or less than the statewide annual median household income.
In 2025, the California statewide annual median household income was $109,266, and
80% of that is $87,413. LAFCO staff utilized the ArcGIS mapping program to locate
potential DUCs in Santa Cruz County. It is important to note that the RCD is not subject
to SB 244 because it does not provide water, sewer, or fire service, and therefore, no
further analysis is required. While the District does not fall under the purview of SB 244,
RCD has implemented several projects and programs that benefit disadvantaged
communities, such as Davenport, areas surrounding Boulder Creek, and the City of
Watsonville. Many of these projects were implemented in partnership with several non-
governmental organizations, including the Watsonville Wetlands Watch and the Land
Trust of Santa Cruz County. Projects have included technical studies, wetlands and
stream restoration. Many of these projects have multiple benefits that not only address
resource concerns, but also provide recreational opportunities and open space for the
City’s residents. The District has also worked extensively with the agricultural community
surrounding the City of Watsonville to address serious water supply concerns that could
affect sustainability of the agricultural industry that supports many of the jobs in the
community. Much of this work has targeted Spanish speaking growers.
Resource Conservation District Service & Sphere Review Page 11 of 28
FINANCES
This section will highlight the District’s financial performance during the most recent fiscal
years. Fiscal Year 2023-24 is the latest audited financial statement available. LAFCO
evaluated RCD’s financial health from 2018 to 2024. A comprehensive analysis of the
District’s financial performance during the past six years is shown in Tables C-D on pages
16 and 17. The sources used by LAFCO are available on RCD’s website:
https://www.rcdsantacruz.org/annual-reports-and-financials.
At the end of Fiscal Year 2023-24, total revenue collected was approximately $5.9 million,
representing a 15% increase from the previous year ($5.1 million in FY 22-23). Total
expenses for FY 2023-24 were approximately $5.0 million, which increased from the
previous year by 5% ($4.8 million in FY 22-23). While the District ended in a deficit during
FY 2018-19 and FY 2019-20, the last four fiscal years have ended in a surplus, as shown
in Figure 4. c
Figure 4: Statement of Revenues & Expenditures
$7,000,000
$6,000,000 $5,904,313
$5,149,735
$5,030,936
$5,000,000
$4,810,180
$3,954,335
$4,000,000
$3,746,545
$3,640,325
$3,480,243 $3,514,036
$3,130,556
$3,000,000
$1,929,796
$2,000,000 $1,896,833
$1,000,000
$-
FY 2018-19 FY 2019-20 FY 2020-21 FY 2021-22 FY 2022-23 FY 2023-24
(Audited) (Audited) (Audited) (Audited) (Audited) (Audited)
TOTAL REVENUE TOTAL EXPENDITURE
Resource Conservation District Service & Sphere Review Page 12 of 28
Revenues
RCD’s primary source of revenue is from Grants. In FY 2023-24, Grants totaled
approximately $4 million which represents 69% of the District’s entire revenue stream.
Other revenue sources include property taxes, interest, and other revenue. Figure 5
provides a breakdown each revenue stream.
Figure 5: Total Revenue (FY 2023-24)
Other Revenue
$1,703,892 (28.86%)
Property Taxes
$45,381 (0.77%)
Interest
$68,890 (1.17%)
Grants
$4,086,150 (69.21%)
Footnote: Other revenue includes Special District Augmentation Fund, Contributions & Donations, and RDA
Pass-Throughs.
Expenditures
RCD’s total expenditures can be categorized into two budgetary groups: Salaries and
Benefits and Services and Supplies. Figure 6 shows that Services and Supplies
represented approximately 68% of the District’s entire operational expenses in FY 2023-
24. The remaining expenditures are based on Salaries and Employee Benefits (32%).
Figure 6: Total Expenditure (FY 2023-24)
Salaries & Benefits
$1,602,780 (32%)
Services & Supplies
$3,428,156 (68%)
Resource Conservation District Service & Sphere Review Page 13 of 28
Assets & Liabilities
District Assets
As of June 30, 2024, the District had approximately $3.7 million in total assets. This
represents a decrease of approximately $359,000 or 9% from FY 2022-23’s total assets
of $4.0 million. Total assets can be categorized into three types: Cash, Account
Receivable, and Prepaid Items. As shown in Figure 7, cash represented 51% of total
assets.
Figure 7: Total Assets (FY 2023-24)
Prepaid Items
$13,747 (0.37%)
Cash
Account Receivable $1,881,638 (51.24%)
$1,776,566 (48.38%)
District Liabilities
As of June 30, 2024, the District had approximately $1.2 million in total liabilities. This
represents a decrease of approximately $983,000 or 45% from FY 2022-23’s total
liabilities of $2.2 million. Total liabilities can be categorized into three types: Accounts
Payable (Claims), Accounts Payable (Payroll), and Grant Funds Received in Advance.
As shown in Figure 8, Claims represented 76% of total liabilities.
Figure 8: Total Liabilities (FY 2023-24)
Grant Funds Received in Advance
$233,238 (20%)
Accounts Payable -Payroll
$52,033 (4%)
Accounts Payable -Claims
$913,446 (76%)
Resource Conservation District Service & Sphere Review Page 14 of 28
Fund Balance / Net Position
As of June 30, 2024, the total net position balance ended with approximately $2.4 million.
The following table highlights the net position balance from 2018 to 2024. As shown in
Table B, the District’s fund balance has experienced a steady increase since 2018.
Table B: Net Position (2018 to 2024)
FY 18-19 FY 19-20 FY 20-21 FY 21-22 FY 22-23 FY 23-24
Beginning
$371,867 $354,700 $458,621 $817,545 $1,123,644 $1,800,288
Balance
Ending
$354,700 $458,621 $817,545 $1,123,644 $1,800,288 $2,417,354
Balance
Difference +$103,921 +$358,924 +$306,099 +$676,644 +$676,644
Resource Conservation District Service & Sphere Review Page 15 of 28
Table C: Total Revenues & Expenditures
FY 2018-19 FY 2019-20 FY 2020-21 FY 2021-22 FY 2022-23 FY 2023-24
(Audited) (Audited) (Audited) (Audited) (Audited) (Audited)
REVENUE
Property Taxes
Current Secured $ 3 1,516 $ 3 3,151 $ 3 4,844 $ 3 6,170 $ 3 8,763 $ 4 0,845
Current Unsecured $ 6 33 $ 6 48 $ 5 90 $ 6 68 $ 7 18 $ 8 08
Current Secured - Supplemental $ 9 56 $ 6 20 $ 4 01 $ 1,190 $ 1,140 $ 4 93
Current Unsecured - Supplemental $ 42 $ 8 $ 18 $ 15 $ 49 $ 36
Residual Distribution $ 3,416 $ 3,633 $ 2,425 $ 2,272 $ 3,125 $ 2,978
Prior Years $ 82 $ 1 28 $ 1 78 $ 1 04 $ 1 49 $ 1 97
In-Lieu Taxes Other $ 10 $ 5 $ 23 $ 14 $ 13 $ 24
Total Property Taxes $ 3 6,655 $ 3 8,193 $ 3 8,479 $ 4 0,433 $ 4 3,957 $ 4 5,381
Use of Money and Property
Interest $ 9,003 $ 1 2,091 $ 3,428 $ 5,637 $ 2 5,674 $ 6 8,890
Total Use of Money and Property $ 9,003 $ 1 2,091 $ 3,428 $ 5,637 $ 2 5,674 $ 6 8,890
Aid from Other Govt Agencies
Homeowners' Property Tax Relief $ 1 86 $ 1 87 $ 1 85 $ 1 82 $ 1 58 $ 1 94
Contribution from Other Govt Agenices$ - $ - $ - $ - $ - $ -
Total Aid from Other Govt Agencies $ 1 86 $ 1 87 $ 1 85 $ 1 82 $ 1 58 $ 1 94
Grants
State Department of Parks & Rec $ - $ - $ - $ - $ - $ 7 2,213
State Water Resources Control Board $ 1 17,404 $ 8 12,804 $ 2 43,669 $ 1 14,082 $ 4 5,769 $ 2 77,213
State - Other $ 8 69,663 $2 ,000,800 $2 ,080,452 $1 ,633,919 $3 ,509,923 $ 3 ,622,789
Federal - Other $ 1 60,423 $ 1 32,358 $ 1 53,758 $ 1 91,083 $ 2 54,571 $ 1 13,935
Total Grants $1 ,147,490 $2 ,945,962 $2 ,477,879 $1 ,939,084 $3 ,810,263 $ 4 ,086,150
Other Revenues
Other Taxes - Special Dist Augmentatio$n F u 4 n1d,289 $ 4 1,289 $ 4 1,289 $ 4 1,289 $ 4 1,289 $ 4 1,289
Contributions and Donations $ 2,517 $ 1,831 $ 2,073 $ 1 2,298 $ 2 1,594 $ 1,250
RDA Pass-Throughs $ 97 $ 4 36 $ 56 $ 1 00 $ 1 06 $ 51
Other Revenue $ 6 59,596 $ 6 00,336 $ 9 16,854 $1 ,707,522 $1 ,206,694 $ 1 ,661,108
Total Other Revenues $ 7 03,499 $ 6 43,892 $ 9 60,272 $1 ,761,209 $1 ,269,683 $ 1 ,703,698
TOTAL REVENUE $1 ,896,833 $3 ,640,325 $3 ,480,243 $3 ,746,545 $5 ,149,735 $ 5 ,904,313
EXPENDITURE
Salaries and Employee Benefits
Regular Pay $ 6 21,827 $ 7 62,484 $ 8 35,639 $ 9 15,302 $1 ,098,996 $ 1 ,291,444
Social Security $ 4 6,250 $ 5 7,262 $ 6 2,445 $ 6 9,472 $ 8 2,462 $ 9 7,225
Employee Insurance and Benefits $ 8 1,784 $ 8 9,995 $ 9 0,891 $ 1 13,779 $ 1 37,541 $ 1 87,120
Unemployment Insurance $ 4,359 $ 4,476 $ 3,968 $ 4,852 $ 5,644 $ 5,761
Workers' Compensation $ 3,239 $ 4,828 $ 1 0,269 $ 9,755 $ 2 9,721 $ 8,820
Other Benefits Misc $ - $ - $ - $ - $ - $ 1 2,410
Total Salaries and Employee Benefits $ 7 57,459 $ 9 19,045 $1 ,003,212 $1 ,113,160 $1 ,354,364 $ 1 ,602,780
Services and Supplies
Telephone $ 5,526 $ 7,106 $ 8,064 $ 9,086 $ 9,561 $ 2,206
Insurance $ 9,616 $ 9,740 $ 1 4,646 $ 1 4,106 $ 1 4,579 $ 1 7,287
Memberships $ 1,195 $ 2,427 $ 2,949 $ 5,456 $ 5,573 $ 4,358
Postage $ 5 29 $ - $ 7 $ 2 49 $ 20 $ -
Supplies $ 1,082 $ 1 27 $ 1 70 $ 4 78 $ 4 25 $ -
Accounting and Auditing $ 2 7,296 $ 2 4,163 $ 3 2,333 $ 3 2,240 $ 3 0,420 $ 3 6,299
Legal Services $ 1 0,450 $ 1 0,619 $ 1 2,997 $ 1 6,002 $ 7,425 $ 2 9,614
Professional Services $ 9 80,945 $2 ,724,332 $1 ,877,140 $2 ,149,822 $3 ,173,610 $ 3 ,050,725
Publication Printing Costs $ - $ - $ - $ - $ 3 83 $ -
Legal Notices $ - $ - $ - $ - $ - $ -
Rents and Leases - Structures $ 4 6,833 $ 4 5,118 $ 4 0,825 $ 3 7,869 $ 4 3,771 $ 4 4,326
Special District Expense - Services $ 8 0,977 $ 2 03,512 $ 1 31,333 $ 1 25,152 $ 1 51,989 $ 2 25,130
Mileage $ 4,725 $ 4,155 $ 4,106 $ 7,078 $ 1 4,097 $ 1 4,464
Utilities $ 3,139 $ 2,613 $ 2,545 $ 2,887 $ 3,173 $ 3,404
Credit Card Fees $ 24 $ 5 $ 229 $ 451 $ 7 90 $ 3 43
COVID 19 Expenses $ - $ 1,373 $ - $ - $ - $ -
Total Services and Supplies $ 1,172,337 $ 3,035,290 $ 2,127,344 $ 2,400,876 $ 3,455,816 $ 3,428,156
Retirement of Other L/T Debt
Principal on Long-Term Deb $ - $ - $ - $ - $ - $ -
Total Fixed Assets $ - $ - $ - $ - $ - $ -
Fixed Assets
Equipment $ - $ - $ - $ - $ - $ -
Total Fixed Assets $ - $ - $ - $ - $ - $ -
Appropriations for Contingencies
Contingencies $ - $ - $ - $ - $ - $ -
Total Appropriations for Contingencies$ - $ - $ - $ - $ - $ -
TOTAL EXPENDITURE $1 ,929,796 $3 ,954,335 $3 ,130,556 $3 ,514,036 $4 ,810,180 $ 5 ,030,936
Surplus/(Deficit) $ (32,963) $ (314,010) $ 3 49,687 $ 2 32,509 $ 3 39,555 $ 8 73,377
NET POSITION
Beginning of Year $ 3 71,867 $ 3 54,700 $ 4 58,621 $ 8 17,545 $ 1,123,644 $ 1,800,288
End of Year $ 354,700 $ 4 58,621 $ 8 17,545 $ 1,123,644 $ 1,800,288 $ 2,417,354
Resource Conservation District Service & Sphere Review Page 16 of 28
Table D: Total Assets & Liabilities
FY 2017-18 FY 2018-19 FY 2019-20 FY 2020-21 FY 2021-22 FY 2022-23 FY 2023-24
(Audited) (Audited) (Audited) (Audited) (Audited) (Audited) (Audited)
ASSETS
Cash $ 3 05,850 $ 5 56,260 $ 6 18,100 $ 5 50,439 $ 9 66,783 $ 2,250,502 $ 1,881,638
Account Receivable $ 6 09,262 $ 7 04,789 $ 1,175,480 $ 1,528,521 $ 1,474,973 $ 1,770,031 $ 1,776,566
Prepaid Items $ 21,003 $ 1 ,100 $ 1 ,100 $ 1 ,100 $ 7 ,367 $ 9 ,920 $ 13,747
TOTAL ASSETS $ 936,115 $ 1,262,149 $ 1,794,680 $ 2,080,060 $ 2,449,123 $ 4,030,453 $ 3,671,951
LIABILITIES
Accounts Payable - Claims $ 4 16,967 $ 3 77,111 $ 8 12,012 $ 6 55,959 $ 8 19,202 $ 1,850,005 $ 9 13,446
Accounts Payable - Payroll $ 26,910 $ 31,703 $ 48,461 $ 29,903 $ 16,050 $ 33,782 $ 52,033
Grant Funds Received in Advance $ 95,016 $ 4 63,758 $ 4 29,452 $ 5 35,807 $ 4 48,245 $ 2 97,577 $ 2 33,238
TOTAL LIABILITIES $ 5 38,893 $ 8 72,572 $ 1,289,925 $ 1,221,669 $ 1,283,497 $ 2,181,364 $ 1,198,717
Deferred Inflows of Resources:
Unavailable Revenue $ 5 03,719 $ 5 29,037 $ 9 58,225 $ 9 62,174 $ 1,036,900 $ 1,380,808 $ 1,131,576
Total Deferred Inflows of Resources $ 5 03,719 $ 5 29,037 $ 9 58,225 $ 9 62,174 $ 1,036,900 $ 1,380,808 $ 1,131,576
Fund Balances:
Prepaid Items $ 21,003 $ 1 ,100 $ 1 ,100 $ 1 ,100 $ 7 ,367 $ 9 ,920 $ 13,747
Unassigned $ (127,500) $ (140,560) $ (454,570) $ (104,883) $ 1 21,359 $ 4 58,361 $ 1,327,911
Total Fund Balances $ (106,497) $ (139,460) $ (453,470) $ (103,783) $ 1 28,726 $ 4 68,281 $ 1,341,658
TOTAL LIABILITIES, DEFERRED
$ 936,115 $ 1,262,149 $ 1,794,680 $ 2,080,060 $ 2,449,123 $ 4,030,453 $ 3,671,951
INFLOWS, AND FUND BALANCES
Resource Conservation District Service & Sphere Review Page 17 of 28
GOVERNANCE
Legal Authority
The Resource Conservation District of Santa Cruz County operates according to Public
Resources Code Sections 9000 et seq. and is authorized to: conduct surveys and
research relating to conservation of resources, prevention and control measures and
improvements needed; development and distribution of water; make improvements or
conduct operations on public or private lands in furtherance of erosion control, water
conservation and distribution, agricultural and wildlife enhancement, erosion stabilization,
including but not limited to terraces, ditches, levees, and dams or other structures and the
planting of trees, shrubs, grasses or other vegetation; and provide public education and
technical assistance. As a public resource agency, the District does not have regulatory
power but is designated by
the Board of Supervisors to
review applications for
grading permit exemptions
related to development in
unincorporated areas.
The RCD collaborates with
landowners and managers,
technical advisors, local
jurisdictions, government
agencies, and others to
protect, conserve and
restore natural resources in
Santa Cruz County. The
District includes several
acres of mostly rural,
agricultural and open space lands, and includes all watersheds in Santa Cruz County.
RCDs have a close working relationship with the USDA Natural Resource Conservation
Service (NRCS) and through the local RCD, an NRCS conservationist and other
specialists provide local landowners technical assistance. The RCD acts as a liaison
between local property owners and land management organizations and the NRCS
federal program administration. The California Association of Resource Conservation
Districts describes the relationships of local conservation districts and the NRCS as: a
unique partnership to work with private landowners and operators to deliver the technical
and financial assistance needed to help them apply complex conservation treatments to
control erosion and improve the quality of our soil resources; protect and improve water
and air quality; enhance fish and wildlife habitat; and manage woodlands, pasturelands
and rangelands.
Resource Conservation District Service & Sphere Review Page 18 of 28
Local Accountability & Structure
RCD is governed by a seven-member Board of Directors, which is appointed by the Santa
Cruz County Board of Supervisors. In 1996, the Board of Supervisors accepted
responsibility for appointing Directors to the Resource Conservation District. The current
Board is as follows:
Table E: Board of Directors
Board Member Term of Office
First Appointed: 1986
Jim McKenna, President
Term Limit Ends: General 2026
First Appointed: 2000
Michael Manfre, Vice-President
Term Limit Ends: General 2028
First Appointed: 1996
Howard Liebenberg
Term Limit Ends: General 2028
First Appointed: 2000
John Ricker
Term Limit Ends: General 2028
First Appointed: 2018
Kelley K. Bell
Term Limit Ends: General 2026
First Appointed: 2014
Robert Ketley
Term Limit Ends: General 2026
First Appointed: 2020
Michael Eaton
Term Limit Ends: General 2028
The Board holds regularly-scheduled meetings on the second Wednesday of each month
at 6:30 PM in the RCD’s office in Capitola or other publicly-noticed local location. Board
meetings are hybrid in-person and online to allow broader public access and participation.
Public notice is provided through posting, and website. The District’s Long Range
Conservation Program states that all meetings are to be conducted in accordance with
“Roberts Rules of Order” and all meetings shall follow the guidelines set forth in the Brown
Act. Meeting agendas are emailed out to a listserv, posted on the window of the District’s
office and posted on the District’s website at least three days (72 hours) in advance of
any meeting. RCD traditionally adopts an annual report including comprehensive
overviews, permit coordination programs, and financials (budget and audits). These
reports are also available on the District’s website: https://www.rcdsantacruz.org/annual-
reports-and-financials.
Management Efficiencies
The Santa Cruz County Resource Conservation District officially began operations
January 1, 1978, in conformity with Santa Cruz County Board of Supervisors Resolution
744-77. This resolution authorized the consolidation of the Pajaro Resource Conservation
District and the Redwood Conservation District to form the Santa Cruz County Resource
Conservation District. The District is comprised of the land areas of the former Pajaro and
Redwood Resource Conservation Districts. In September 2007, the Santa Cruz County
Resource Conservation District was renamed Resource Conservation District of Santa
Cruz County. The mission of the District is to help people protect, conserve, and restore
natural resources though information, education, and technical assistance programs. At
present, staffing includes 13 full-time staff (defined as 30+ hours a week) with an
additional 2 part-time staff with occasional interns. The following link provides an overview
of all the key staff members for the District: https://www.rcdsantacruz.org/staff.
Resource Conservation District Service & Sphere Review Page 19 of 28
Opportunities and Challenges
RCD is authorized to provide a broad range of conservation-related services that provide
benefit throughout the District’s service area. The District’s boundaries currently exclude
the incorporated cities of Santa Cruz, Scotts Valley, and Watsonville. However, RCD has
developed a network of strategic partnerships beyond its boundaries. This has led to
recent achievements, best practices, and other success stories. The following section
discusses how the District can continue exploring opportunities to improve efficiencies
while addressing current and future challenges.
Local and Regional Collaborations
Strategic partnerships are a critical component to RCD. The District specializes in
bridging gaps between private landowners and public agencies, and solving problems
through the creation of partnerships, traditional and non-traditional. Appendix B depicts
the various partnerships. At present, RCD has over 60 strategic partnerships at the local,
state and federal level. Such collaboration is a great example of collaborative efforts
among local agencies in pursuit of economies of scale, service efficiency, and overall
“good government.” These partnerships are based on separate contracts or agreements
and based in informal, trust-based relationships.
For example, the District has formed a “Durable Collaboration” with San Mateo, Monterey
County, and Upper Salinas-Las Tablas RCD to strengthen their ability to share staff, skills,
and resources. This partnership also improves their ability to address regional priorities
like forest health, watershed management, and species recovery through collaborative
programs and grant proposals. LAFCO staff believes that it may be beneficial to explore
additional opportunities to combine or establish a regional agreement through various
methods.
• Memorandum of Understanding - A Memorandum of Understanding describes an
agreement between two or more parties: in this case, the local agencies’ overarching
conservation goals. The purpose of a MOU is to formally agree on the objectives, roles
and ground rules of the partnership between the local governments that holds the
mandate for service provision and the implementing organization. Establishing a clear
agreement can help prevent conflict and reputational harm because expectations
discussed, agreed and documented at an early stage leaves less room for
misinterpretation. It also increases transparency in the relationship with the public
authority and allows holding either party accountable to their commitments.
• Joint Powers Authority – A JPA is defined by the California State Legislature Senate
Local Government Committee as a formal, legal agreement between two or more
public agencies that share a common power and want to jointly implement programs,
build facilities, or deliver services. Officials from those public agencies formally
approve a cooperative arrangement. JPAs offer another way for governments to
deliver services. With a joint powers agreement, a member agency agrees to be
responsible for delivering a service on behalf of the other member agencies.
Resource Conservation District Service & Sphere Review Page 20 of 28
• Potential LAFCO Partnership - Alameda LAFCO has collaborated with the Alameda
County Resource Conservation District (ACRCD) to protect and promote the
conservation of agricultural and natural-resource lands in the county through the
Alameda County Agricultural Resiliency Project (ACARP). This effort is funded by the
California Climate Investments program via the Department of Conservation and its
goals include forming a countywide stakeholder coalition to review local agricultural
policies and map out priority areas at risk of being converted to more intensive
greenhouse gas-emitting land uses. This collaborative partnership could be replicated
in Santa Cruz County, if warranted.
LAFCO Staff Recommendation: The District should continue collaborating with other
local agencies to maximize efficiencies and/or explore other cost-saving opportunities.
Governance Options
The original purpose of resource conservation districts was to manage soil and water
resources for conservation, these powers were expanded in the early 1970s to include
related resources, including fish and wildlife habitat. This expansion of powers was
reflected in the change of name from Soil Conservation Districts to Resource
Conservation Districts in 1971. As the understanding of resource challenges has
expanded over the years, the scope of services has also shifted to addressing impacts of
urbanized areas, as well as the governance structure of these agencies. The RCD of
Santa Cruz County was a direct result of a consolidation. This governance restructuring
allowed for further utilization of existing facilities, maximization of economies of scale, and
cost-savings towards internal and external operations. Since RCD offers programs and
services that benefit landowners in the incorporated cities of Santa Cruz, Scotts Valley,
and Watsonville, and the RCD has developed strategic partnerships and working
relationships with these municipalities, agencies, and community-based organizations
within them, it may be beneficial to explore annexation. The following summarizes the
benefits of regional annexation.
• Annexation – Pursuant to state law, RCD may consider annexing the incorporated
cities of Santa Cruz, Scotts Valley, and Watsonville. Annexation may increase levels
of service and programs within incorporated areas. The District provides a broad
range of conservation services and could provide services that improve
environmental quality and address resource concerns in the incorporated cities.
Additionally, grant awards to the RCD for this work could result in lower costs for
water quality, species recovery or flood management that are ultimately borne by
taxpayers. It may also provide a greater opportunity for implementing watershed
plans and programs on a watershed-based approach that is not constrained by
political boundaries.
LAFCO Staff Recommendation: The District should continue exploring governance
options, including annexation, which may help reduce costs, improve service provisions,
and expand its conservation efforts throughout the coastal region.
Resource Conservation District Service & Sphere Review Page 21 of 28
Website Requirements
Senate Bill 929 was signed into law in September 2018 and requires all independent
special districts to have and maintain a website by January 1, 2020. SB 929 identifies
several components that must be found within an agency’s website. Additionally, the
Special District Leadership Foundation (SDLF), an independent, non-profit organization
formed to promote good governance and best practices among California’s special
districts, has also outlined recommended website elements as part of its District
Transparency Certificate of Excellence. This program was created as an effort to promote
transparency in the operations and governance of special districts to the public.
LAFCO conducted a thorough review of the District’s website based on SB 929’s criteria
and the recommendations set by the SDLF. Table F below summarizes staff’s findings
on whether their website meets the statutory requirements. At present, RCD does not
meet all the benchmarks. While the District has a website in place, it must consider adding
more useful information and resources that are easily accessible to the public.
Table F: Website Transparency
Website Components Status (Yes = √)
Required Items (SB 929 Criteria and SDLF Benchmarks)
1. Names and Contact Information of Board Members* √
2. Board Member Term Limits
3. Names of Key Staff, including General Manager √
4. Contact Information for Staff √
5. Election/Appointment Procedure & Deadlines
6. Board Meeting Schedule* √
7. Mission Statement √
8. Description of District's Services/Functions and Service Area √
9. Authorizing Statute/Enabling Act √
10. Adopted District Budgets* √
11. Financial Audits* √
12. Archive of Board Meeting Agendas & Minutes* √
13. Link to State Controller's Webpages for District's reported Board
√
Member and Staff Compensation
14. Link to State Controller's Webpages for District's reported Financial
√
Transaction Report
15. Reimbursement & Compensation Policy / Annual Policies
16. Home Page Link to Agendas/Board Packets √
17. SB 272 - Compliance-Enterprise Catalogs √
18. Machine Readable/Searchable Agendas
19. Recipients of Grant Funding or Assistance √
20. Link or Copies of LAFCO’s Service & Sphere Reviews
Total Score (out of a possible 20) 15 (75%)
LAFCO Staff Recommendation: The District must update its website to fulfill the legal
requirements under SB 929 by August 31, 2026.
Resource Conservation District Service & Sphere Review Page 22 of 28
SPHERE OF INFLUENCE
Cortese-Knox-Hertzberg Act
City and special district spheres of influence define the probable physical boundaries and
service area of a local agency, as determined by the Commission (Government Code
Section 56076). The law requires that spheres be updated at least once every five years
either concurrently or subsequently to the preparation of Municipal Service Reviews.
Spheres are determined and amended solely at the discretion of the Commission. In
determining the sphere of influence for each local agency, the Commission is required by
Government Code Section 56425(e) to consider certain factors, including:
➢ The present and planned uses in the area, including agricultural and open-space
lands;
➢ The present and probable need for public facilities and services in the area;
➢ The present capacity of public facilities and adequacy of public services that the
agency provides or is authorized to provide;
➢ The existence of any social or economic communities of interest in the area if the
commission determines that they are relevant to the agency; and
➢ For an update of a sphere of influence of a city or special district that provides
public facilities or services related to sewers, municipal and industrial water, or
structural fire protection, that occurs pursuant to subdivision (g) on or after July 1,
2012, the present and probable need for those public facilities and services of any
disadvantaged unincorporated communities within the existing sphere.
Current Sphere Boundary
Santa Cruz LAFCO adopted the first sphere of influence for RCD on December 19, 1983.
The adopted sphere of influence is watershed-based. It includes the entire watersheds of
the North Coast streams, the San Lorenzo River, Soquel Creek, Aptos Creek, and the
portion of the Pajaro River watershed located in Santa Cruz County. As a result, the
District’s sphere is the entire County of Santa Cruz, including all four cities. The last
sphere update occurred in October 2020, which resulted in the reaffirmation of the
existing sphere boundary. Figure 9 on page 24 shows the current sphere of influence.
LAFCO staff is recommending that the sphere boundary be reaffirmed once again as part
of this service and sphere review.
Resource Conservation District Service & Sphere Review Page 23 of 28
Figure 9: District Sphere Map
Resource Conservation District Service & Sphere Review Page 24 of 28
DISTRICT SUMMARY
Resource Conservation District of Santa Cruz County
California Public Resources Code §9000 et seq.
Formation
(Resource Conservation District Act)
Governed by a seven-member Board of Directors. Board
Board of
members are appointed to four-year terms by the Santa Cruz
Directors
County Board of Supervisors.
Contact Person Lisa Lurie, Executive Director
13 full-time employees (defined as 30+ hours per week) and 2
Employees
part-time staff members
Entire County, excluding the Cities of Santa Cruz, Scotts Valley
District Area
and Watsonville (Approximately 419 square miles)
Sphere of The sphere boundary is countywide and coterminous with the
Influence District’s jurisdictional limits.
Total Revenue = $5,904,313
FY 2023-24 Audit Total Expenditure = $5,030,936
Projected Net Position (Ending Balance) = $2,418,354
Mailing Address: 820 Bay Avenue, Suite 136,
Capitola, CA 95010
Contact Phone Number: 831-464-2950
Information
Email Address: info@rcdsantacruz.org
Website: http://www.rcdsantacruz.org/
Meetings are typically held on the second Wednesday of the
month, at 6:30 pm. These Board meetings are typically held at
Public Meetings
the RCD’s administrative office in Capitola or other publicly
noticed local location and are open to the public.
The mission of the Resource Conservation District of Santa Cruz
Mission County is to help people protect, conserve, and restore natural
Statement resources through information, education, and technical
assistance programs.
Resource Conservation District Service & Sphere Review Page 25 of 28
SERVICE AND SPHERE REVIEW DETERMINATIONS
The following service and sphere review determinations fulfill the requirements outlined
in the Cortese-Knox-Hertzberg Act.
Service Provision Determinations
Government Code Section 56430 requires LAFCO to conduct a municipal service review
before, or in conjunction with, an action to establish or update a sphere boundary. Written
statements of determination must be prepared with respect to each of the following:
1. Growth and population projections for the affected area.
RCD encompasses over 400 square miles. It is estimated that approximately 148,000
residents currently live within the District’s jurisdiction. LAFCO staff projects that the
District’s population may reach 152,000 by 2040.
2. The location and characteristics of any disadvantaged unincorporated
communities within or contiguous to the sphere of influence.
RCD is not subject to SB 244 because it does not provide water, sewer, or fire service.
3. Present and planned capacity of public facilities, adequacy of public services,
and infrastructure needs or deficiencies including needs or deficiencies related
to sewers, municipal and industrial water, and structural fire protection in any
disadvantaged, unincorporated communities within or contiguous to the sphere
of influence.
RCD provides non-discriminatory assistance and educational opportunities to
agricultural producers, land users, educators, and anyone with land-based resource
conservation needs. RCD’s services include conservation education, soil erosion
control, water quality enhancement, wildfire resilience, and watershed enhancement.
4. Financial ability of agencies to provide services.
RCD’s primary source of revenue is from Grants. The District has experienced an
annual surplus from FY202-21 to FY 2023-24. Net position ended with a balance of
$2.4 million during FY 2023-24.
5. Status of, and opportunities for, shared facilities.
At present, RCD has over 60 strategic partnerships at the local, state and federal level.
Such collaboration is a great example of collaborative efforts among local agencies in
pursuit of economies of scale, service efficiency, and overall “good government.”
6. Accountability for community service needs, including governmental structure
and operational efficiencies.
RCD is highly reliant on irregular grants. The District should continue sharing expertise
and explore sharing staffing with RCDs in the adjacent counties.
7. Any other matter related to effective or efficient service delivery, as required by
commission policy.
No additional local LAFCO policies are specifically relevant to this service review.
Resource Conservation District Service & Sphere Review Page 26 of 28
Sphere of Influence Determinations
Government Code Section 56425 requires LAFCO to periodically review and update
spheres of influence in concert with conducting municipal service reviews. Spheres are
used as regional planning tools to discourage urban sprawl and encourage orderly
growth. Written statements of determination must be prepared with respect to each of the
following:
1. The present and planned land uses in the area, including agricultural and open-
space lands.
The present and planned land uses are based on the general plans from the County
and the City of Capitola, which range from urban to rural uses. General plans
anticipate growth centered on existing urban areas and the maintenance of
agricultural production, rural residential uses, and environmental protection in rural
areas. The planned land uses within the five applicable general plans are a mix of
urban, rural and mountain residential, agricultural, timber, public recreation, and open-
space lands.
2. The present and probable need for public facilities and services in the area.
The area within the adopted sphere of influence needs, and will continue to need, the
soil management, wildland fuel load reduction, riparian restoration, and watershed
management services provided by the District.
3. The present capacity of public facilities and adequacy of public services that
the agency provides or is authorized to provide.
The services and programs of RCD substantially rely on grant funding, which may
vary on an annual basis. The District’s services may change based upon the types
and levels of grant funds received during any given year.
4. The existence of any social or economic communities of interest in the area if
the commission determines that they are relevant to the agency.
The adopted sphere of influence is watershed-based. It includes the entire watersheds
of the North Coast streams, the San Lorenzo River, Soquel Creek, Aptos Creek, and
the portion of the Pajaro River watershed located in Santa Cruz County.
5. For an update of a sphere of influence of a city or special district that provides
public facilities or services related to sewers, municipal and industrial water, or
structural fire protection, that occurs pursuant to subdivision (g) on or after July
1, 2012, the present and probable need for those public facilities and services
of any disadvantaged unincorporated communities within the existing sphere
of influence.
The District does not provide services related to sewers, municipal and industrial
water, or structural fire protection. Therefore, this determination is not applicable.
Resource Conservation District Service & Sphere Review Page 27 of 28
APPENDICES
Appendix A: Strategic Plan (2020-2024)
Appendix B: Strategic Partnerships (List)
Appendix C: Coastal Region RCDs (Map)
Resource Conservation District Service & Sphere Review Page 28 of 28
APPENDIX A:
Strategic Plan
(2020-2024)
Resource Conservation District of Santa Cruz County
Strategic Direction
Adopted by the RCDSCC Board May 13, 2020
Page 1
RCD of Santa Cruz County
Strategic Direction May 13, 2020
Board of Directors
Steve Auten
Kelley Bell
Robert Ketley
Howard Liebenberg
Mike Manfre, Vice President
Jim McKenna, President
John Ricker
Staff
Kelli Camara, Technical Director (consultant)
Angie Carreras, Program Specialist
Tangi Chapman, Executive Assistant
Sharon Corkrean, Director of Finance
Karl Fieberling, Program Specialist
Angie Gruys, Program Specialist
Sacha Lozano, Program Manager
Lisa Lurie, Executive Director
Erin McCarthy, Program Specialist
Arianne Rettinger, Grants Manager
Gerry Spinelli, Program Specialist
Developed with support from Solid Ground Consulting and funding from the Community Foundation of Santa Cruz County
Page 2
RCD of Santa Cruz County
Strategic Direction May 13, 2020
Our Mission
The mission of the Resource Conservation District of Santa Cruz County is to inspire and assist the
people and communities of Santa Cruz County to protect, conserve, and restore our natural resources.
Our Vision
At the Resource Conservation District of Santa Cruz County, we envision our county
as a place where natural resources and the communities and economies that depend upon them are
thriving and resilient.
We believe protecting natural resources meets the needs of people, the community, and the
environment—for water, food, clean air, connection, and a diversity of landscapes that are necessary
for all life to thrive.
Ecosystem health and its connection to a thriving community is demonstrated by:
A community where all residents, landowners, land users and leaders understand and are
empowered to contribute to the stewardship of natural resources;
Healthy, productive watersheds and lands;
The recovery and flourishing of native wildlife and plants;
Plentiful clean water; and
Natural and human systems that are resilient to climate change.
The Resource Conservation District is a valuable and reliable partner
dedicated to helping our community realize this vision and achieve results. We strive to serve as:
A go-to resource for land stewardship and natural resource issues in Santa Cruz County. Our
skilled and passionate staff members and board of directors offer science-based assistance and
education to support our community in learning about and caring for our natural environment.
Our expertise centers on stewardship in agriculture and watershed restoration and management.
Our core program areas are water management, land & soil stewardship, habitat restoration &
species recovery, forest health & fire resiliency, multi-objective planning, and regulatory assistance.
A nimble, collaborative partner and a hub of creative problem solving. We strive to be known
and trusted by leaders, landowners, land users, farmers, residents, and cooperating organizations
throughout the county. We serve as a connector and a bridge, understanding diverse perspectives
and goals and bringing people together to collaborate, build trust, and develop solutions that
benefit all. We focus on action on-the-ground, helping to remove barriers to conservation and
staying ready to act to meet the changing needs of our community.
A stable, sustainably funded organization. We strive to secure stable and ongoing funding as a
result of being a valuable and reliable partner that gets results. Stable funding enables the RCD to
fulfill its vital role with consistency and quality. We will work with our allies, partners, and
supporters to secure the financial resources needed to achieve our goals.
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RCD of Santa Cruz County
Strategic Direction May 13, 2020
A place of fun and celebration. We are a dedicated team who are having fun changing the world!
We celebrate our successes, reflect on our experiences and support each other to learn, grow, and
live our mission.
Page 4
RCD of Santa Cruz County
Strategic Direction May 13, 2020
2020-2024 Goals and Strategies
Goal #1: The RCD implements effective watershed health programs to promote ecosystems that are
thriving and resilient to climate change.
Strategies Potential Outcomes
1. Work with partners to implement a watershed-based approach Watershed and regional
to water management. conservation plans are
updated/created and
1.1. Utilize the Integrated Watershed Restoration Program
include metrics to guide
(IWRP) to identify, prioritize, and implement watershed
actions.
restoration and protection actions on public and private
lands. Data for water quality,
water quantity, and
1.2. Review and update existing watershed plans.
habitat parameters show
1.3. Participate in regional urban stormwater management trends of improvement.
planning efforts to identify and advance projects.
Focal species are down
1.4. Participate in Integrated Regional Water Management listed.
Program to incorporate watershed restoration efforts in
A multi-objective
water management projects (supply, flood mitigation, etc.)
approach to forest health
1.5. Implement watershed-based planning and action strategies and fire resiliency is well
(including but not limited to the following activities: rural defined and guiding
road erosion control, stormwater management, home projects of the RCD and
drainage, water use efficiency, etc.) our partners.
1.6. Partner with Groundwater Sustainability Agencies and
Climate resiliency is
landowners to develop and implement local solutions for
integrated into RCD
sustaining groundwater supplies, including managed
programs and projects.
aquifer recharge, water use efficiency, etc.
1.7. Conduct watershed education and outreach to private
landowners and land users to encourage watershed
stewardship.
2. Work with partners to develop and implement a countywide
ecological restoration and stewardship program for species
recovery.
2.1. Utilize the Integrated Watershed Restoration Program
(IWRP) to identify, prioritize, and implement watershed
restoration and protection actions on public and private
lands.
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RCD of Santa Cruz County
Strategic Direction May 13, 2020
2.2. Review and update existing and/or develop local recovery
and watershed plans for habitat restoration, enhancement
and creation.
2.3. Conduct education and outreach to private landowners and
land users to encourage species recovery actions.
2.4. Coordinate with local, state and federal partners to modify
regulations and ordinances to encourage landowner actions
to support species on their property.
3. Work with partners to develop and implement a pro-active
forest health and fire resiliency program bringing a multi-
objective approach.
3.1. Participate in regional forest health planning and project
prioritization.
3.2. Support the countywide firesafe council in their mission to
educate and mobilize the people of Santa Cruz County to
protect their community, homes, and environment from
wildfire.
3.3. Implement small and large scale forest health and fire
resiliency projects.
4. Work with partners to identify and reduce barriers to
implementation of conservation projects on private lands.
4.1. Utilize and promote the Partners in Restoration permit
coordination program to improve the ease of permitting
conservation projects.
4.2. Understand and work to reduce where possible landowner
liability related to conservation project implementation.
5. Work with partners to develop new and updated conservation
approaches at a regional scale and within Santa Cruz County.
5.1. Build on existing processes to support and implement
advanced mitigation planning.
5.2. Identify additional mechanisms to facilitate large scale, high
impact projects.
6. Evaluate RCD programs to ensure climate resiliency is
addressed.
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RCD of Santa Cruz County
Strategic Direction May 13, 2020
Goal #2: Conservation actions on agricultural working lands support the environmental health and
economic drivers of Santa Cruz County to be viable and resilient to climate change.
Strategies Potential Outcomes
1. Partner with Groundwater Sustainability Agencies (GSAs) and MAR projects contribute
growers to develop and implement local solutions for sustaining an additional 700 acre-feet
groundwater supplies, including managed aquifer recharge, per year of aquifer
irrigation efficiency, covered fallow, and soil health. recharge.
1.1. Partner with the Pajaro Basin GSA to reduce groundwater Pajaro Valley basin-wide
overdraft with three additional Managed Aquifer Recharge data show a decreasing
(MAR) basins in the Pajaro Basin. trend in agricultural
water use.
1.2. Incorporate additional MAR into the Pajaro Valley Basin
Management Plan. 20 farms are actively
implementing soil
1.3. Coordinate partners to address water rights aspects of MAR.
management practices
1.4. Inform GSAs on diverse practices to improve water use on that augment soil carbon.
farms (such as covered fallow, soil health).
Water quality monitoring
1.5. Continue to engage with partners on desired incentives and data show improving
strategies to implement incentives. trends.
1.6. Share successes and lessons learned from the Pajaro Valley Participation in RCD ag
with other GSA’s within the District and across the state. technical assistance
programs is increasing.
2. Provide sustained on-farm technical assistance for improving
water quality, water supply, and soil health, including:
2.1. Irrigation and nutrient management,
2.2. Soil erosion control and winter cover crop, and
2.3. Carbon farm planning to implement on-farm practices that
reduce greenhouse gas emissions and maximize carbon
sequestration on farms.
3. Establish monitoring programs to evaluate progress.
4. Support grower compliance with environmental regulations
(including record keeping, conservation planning, best
management practice implementation, and third-party
collaborative alternative approaches).
4.1. Engage with partners to explore cooperative compliance
models.
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RCD of Santa Cruz County
Strategic Direction May 13, 2020
4.2. Work with regulatory and agencies and the community to
promote practices that are workable and effective.
5. Provide outreach to growers to connect with technical and
financial assistance.
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RCD of Santa Cruz County
Strategic Direction May 13, 2020
Goal #3: Community members understand and participate in RCD efforts in Santa Cruz County
Strategies Potential Outcomes
1. Understand community needs and priorities. ▪ Target audiences (as
defined in the RCD’s
1.1. Meet with partners to understand their needs and their
communications plan)
constituents’ needs and potential alignment with the RCD.
have high awareness of
1.2. Convene at least one community meeting each year. the RCD and our work.
2. Improve the ease of access and participation in RCD programs ▪ Participation in RCD
by the broader community. programs reflects the
diversity of our
2.1. Identify and reach out to new partners, community
community.
members, and agencies who have not worked with the RCD
in the past. ▪ We develop new partners
that view the RCD as a
2.2. Nurture priority partnerships including building
trusted, sought-after
relationships with equity and social justice organizations
partner.
and understanding where alignment exists.
3. Develop systems and tools for effectively communicating about
the RCD and its work.
3.1. Gather information about the RCD’s successes.
3.2. Develop and implement a communications plan for the
RCD, including key messages by audience.
3.3. Train all staff and board to use key messages.
3.4. Increase staff capacity in marketing and communications.
3.5. Develop printed and electronic promotional and education
materials and branded RCD gear to support consistent RCD
communications.
3.6. Use digital communications, video, and social media to
promote the RCD’s programs and messages.
3.7. Be present and visible at community events and activities
that align with our strategic goals
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RCD of Santa Cruz County
Strategic Direction May 13, 2020
Goal #4: Stable and sufficient revenue allows the RCD to advance its mission and vision.
Strategies Potential Outcomes
1. Recover full costs of program implementation. ▪ The RCD prioritizes
grants that fully cover
1.1. Develop an updated cost allocation plan for the RCD.
indirect operating costs.
1.2. Inform funders to improve funding programs to fully cover
▪ By 2024, 20% of the RCD’s
indirect costs, reduce administrative costs, create more
personnel budget is
sustained programmatic funding, and provide baseline
unrestricted and supports
funding.
external and internal
1.3. Continue to keep RCD indirect costs in line with OMB planning, professional
principles development, and
program evaluation.
2. Seek capacity building funds to develop a full business plan /
revenue plan for the RCD. ▪ The RCD’s core programs
are sustained over time.
3. Investigate and pursue new, diverse funding sources.
3.1. Research funding models of other RCDs.
▪ The RCD will implement
one visible, revenue
3.2. Research and analyze funder/partner needs and strategic
generating project.
alignment (local agencies, foundation and individual
funders, landowners and ag innovators).
▪ The fund source to staff
ratio will decrease (i.e. we
3.3. Research new fundraising mechanisms including the
will seek and secure
potential of developing a 501c3 support organization.
larger grants).
3.4. Research passive income opportunities.
▪ The RCD will have
3.5. Continue to explore opportunities for a local funding sufficient funds to
measure to support bundled services (water quality, fire maintain staff pay on par
resiliency, stormwater, etc.). with a competitive job
market.
3.6. Diversify funding to provide on-the-ground services
without creating excessive administrative burden.
3.7. Explore opportunities to bring cities and city funding into
the District.
3.8. Increase applications for private foundation grants.
3.9. Develop a plan to seek funding from major donors.
4. Develop stronger relationships with local agencies including
County Departments to advocate for increased support for work
that aligns with their priorities.
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RCD of Santa Cruz County
Strategic Direction May 13, 2020
5. Identify and pro-actively fund core emergency response services
(such as stormwater management, fire preparedness, post fire
recovery, and drought response) that the RCD needs to maintain
and offer to the community for immediate response to natural
disasters.
5.1. Develop a funding emergency plan – how to maintain core
functions in times of funding drought.
6. Investigate expanding fee-for-service programs.
6.1. Operationalize the In-Lieu Fee Mitigation program.
6.2. Research competitive pricing for potential fee for service
opportunities.
6.3. Develop business plans for services to ag innovators and
landowners.
7. Pursue funding opportunities based on a cost-benefit analysis
with an aim to achieve more efficient administration.
7.1. Pursue fewer, larger grants
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RCD of Santa Cruz County
Strategic Direction May 13, 2020
Goal #5: The RCD Board of Directors and staff have the capacity, tools, and culture needed to
implement the strategic plan goals.
Strategies Potential Outcomes
1. Enable a skilled and engaged Board of Directors. ▪ The Board is active and
engaged as ambassadors,
1.1. Use board meetings efficiently by engaging in strategic
advocates and strategic
discussion and going deep on topics that take advantage of
thought partners for the
the collective experience and diverse perspectives of the
RCD.
board to provide staff with thought-partnership that
enhances their work. ▪ RCD staff feel supported,
valued, and satisfied in
1.2. Regularly inform the board of the work of the RCD staff.
their work.
1.3. Engage the board in outreach as ambassadors to key
▪ The board and staff of the
stakeholders and potential funders.
RCD reflect the diversity
1.4. Identify and recruit Directors and Associate Directors with of our community.
key skills, connections, and demographics that align with
our strategic goals and reflect the various perspectives
within the community.
2. Continue to hire and retain a highly skilled professional staff.
2.1. Secure funding for professional development for staff.
2.2. Refine RCD staff structure to streamline operations.
2.3. Implement an effective performance review process that
evaluates and encourages staff progress relative to
individual and strategic plan goals.
2.4. Ensure competitive pay and recognition of staff
achievements.
3. Enable a cohesive and productive organizational culture.
3.1. Seek unrestricted funding to enable time for planning,
reflection, and evaluation.
3.2. Celebrate successes.
3.3. Continue to encourage innovation and creativity.
3.4. Encourage collaboration across RCD programs.
4. Create an RCD that is welcoming, inclusive, and diverse.
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RCD of Santa Cruz County
Strategic Direction May 13, 2020
4.1. Provide training to board and staff on becoming a more
diverse, equitable, and inclusive organization.
4.2. Update the RCD’s policies as needed.
4.3. Learn and follow best practices for recruitment of a diverse
staff and board.
4.4. Maintain an intentional culture that supports all members of
the team to achieve their best.
Page 13
APPENDIX B:
Strategic Partnerships
(List)
State and Federal Agencies
CA Department of Parks State Coastal US Department of
AmeriCorps
& Recreation Commission Agriculture
CA Department of State Coastal
CAL FIRE US Forest Service
Conservation Conservancy
CA Department of Water State Water Resources
CA Conservation Corps USFWS Coastal Program
Resources Control Board
CA Department of Fish & Natural Resources US Bureau of Land
-
Wildlife Conservation Service Management
National Oceanic and
CA Department of Food US Army Corps of
Atmospheric -
& Agriculture Engineers
Administration (NOAA)
Local and Regional Agencies
Loma Prieta Resource San Benito County Water Santa Clara Valley Water
City of Capitola
Conservation District District District
San Lorenzo Valley and
Pajaro Valley Water Santa Cruz County Fish &
City of Santa Cruz Soquel Creek Water
Management Agency Game Commission
Districts
Regional Water Quality San Mateo County Santa Cruz County
City of Watsonville Control Board Resource Conservation Regional Transportation
(Central Coast Region) District Commission
San Benito County Sonoma County
Santa Clara Open Space
Santa Cruz County Resource Conservation Agricultural Preservation
Authority
District and Open Space District
Schools and Educational Institutions
Live Oak Elementary and
Cal Poly San Luis Obispo, Pacific Elementary
Soquel Union School Santa Cruz City Schools
Swanton Pacific Ranch School
Districts
Cal State University, Monterey Institute of San Lorenzo Valley UC Cooperative
Monterey Bay International Studies Unified School District Extension and UCSC
Non-Profit Organizations, Local Businesses, and Community Groups
American Conservation David and Lucile Packard Santa Cruz County Farm
Friends of State Parks
Experience (ACE) Foundation Bureau
Bonny Doon Fire Safe Gordon and Betty Moore Santa Cruz County
Ecology Action
Council Foundation Horsemen’s Association
CA Association of
Resource Conservation Eco Farm James Irvine Foundation Save Our Shores
Districts (CARCD)
Land Trust of Santa Cruz
CA Native Plant Society El Mercado Popular Sempervirens Fund
County
Coastal Watershed Moore Family South Skyline Fire Safe
Farm Link
Council Foundation Council
Community Foundation San Lorenzo Valley Watsonville Wetlands
Friends of Soquel Creek
of Santa Cruz County Women’s Club Watch
APPENDIX C:
Coastal Region RCDs
(Map)
FIND YOUR RCD MEMBER DASHBOARD
RCDs About Us Our Work Events Partners Updates Support
Central Coast Region
RCDs in the Central Coast Region
7 CACHUMA RCD 65 RCD OF SANTA CRUZ 73 SAN MATEO COUNTY RCD
COUNTY
(805) 868-4013 (415) 317-7399
(831) 464-2950
12 COASTAL SAN LUIS RCD 91 UPPER SALINAS-LAS
66 RCD OF THE SANTA MONICA TABLAS RCD
(805) 704-9119
MOUNTAINS
(805) 536-3196
(323) 309-0842
44 LOMA PRIETA RCD
93 VENTURA COUNTY RCD
(831) 801-8776
69 SAN BENITO RCD
(805) 386-4489
(805) 772-4398
64 RCD OF MONTEREY
COUNTY
(831) 236-1740
Map of Central Coast Region RCDs
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RESOURCE CONSERVATION DISTRICTS
What are RCDs?
Find Your Local RCD
Impact Stories
Conservation Resources
MEMBER DASHBOARD
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FIND YOUR RCD
MEMBER DASHBOARD
801 K Street, MS 14-15 Phone: (916) 457-7904
Sacramento, CA 95814 Fax: (916) 457-7934
© California Association of Resource Conservation Districts. All Rights Reserved. Site by Mission Minded and FILA Design
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