Golden Triangle RC&D: Investing in People, Communities, and the Environment
Recently, Dorris, our Conservation Programs Director, and I took a scenic drive through rural Alabama and into rural Georgia to connect with one of our incredible RC&D councils, Golden Triangle RC&D. As Executive Director and CEO of the National Association, I have the privilege of visiting many communities, but there was something especially meaningful about this trip.
There are so many threads that connect rural Alabama—home to our national headquarters—and the communities served by Golden Triangle. The landscapes feel familiar, the people share the same deep-rooted values, and the challenges, and opportunities, are often very much the same.
From the moment we arrived, we were welcomed with genuine Southern hospitality by Executive Director Rhonda Gordon and her team. That kind of warmth sets the tone for everything they do. It didn’t take long to see that this is an organization grounded in relationships, trust, and a true understanding of the people they serve.
One project that immediately caught my attention was their Better Back Road project. As someone who grew up on a dirt road, raised my babies on one, and has spent countless hours working on RC&D projects down very rural back roads, this work is deeply personal to me. Standing in front of a large project board detailing miles of roads and the communities they connect, it was clear that Golden Triangle’s success comes from listening—really listening—to the needs of their communities.
As we spent more time learning about their work, another theme became just as clear: education is a top priority. I’ve said many times that the best way to build a brighter future is by investing in people, and that means everyone. Golden Triangle RC&D is living that belief out every day through programs that educate, train, and inspire individuals of all ages.
And of course, no visit would be complete without mentioning the passionate leaders behind the work. Board Chair Doug Wilson is, as I like to say, a bit of a handful (like all the best RC&D leaders are), but his commitment to and passion for RC&D is undeniable. His knowledge of water conservation is just one example of what makes RC&D so unique: bringing together people with different strengths, perspectives, and passions to work toward a shared goal of serving their communities.
Our visit ended the best way possible, around a table, enjoying a home-cooked meal prepared by Rhonda and her team, laughing with our friend Doug complete with a classic Southern dessert and a big glass of sweet tea. It was more than just a meal; it was a reflection of the care and heart they pour into everything they do.
This month, we are highlighting education-focused projects across the RC&D network, and Golden Triangle RC&D is a shining example of how investing in people creates lasting impact. Below are just a few of the many programs they are leading; each one different, but all rooted in passion, purpose, and love for their communities.
Inspiring Creativity Through River of Words
One of Golden Triangle RC&D’s standout initiatives is its participation in the River of Words Environmental Art & Poetry Contest. Now in its second year at the regional level, the program encourages young people to explore their relationship with the natural world through artistic and literary expression.
The response from students across the organization’s 19-county service area has been remarkable. In its inaugural year, the contest received 433 submissions from a diverse group of participants, including public school students, charter school programs, gifted classes, and homeschool communities. Each piece reflected not only creativity, but also a thoughtful awareness of environmental stewardship.
In 2024, the program continued to grow, receiving 127 entries and recognizing 55 regional winners across multiple age groups and categories. All submissions advanced to the state competition, where seven students earned state honors. Even more impressively, two students received national recognition, and one achieved international distinction, an extraordinary accomplishment that highlights the talent emerging from the region.
Golden Triangle RC&D takes great pride in every student who participates, recognizing that these young voices represent the future of environmental leadership.
Expanding Workforce Opportunities with Heavy Equipment Training
In addition to youth programming, Golden Triangle RC&D is addressing workforce needs through its Heavy Equipment Simulator program. With support from congressionally directed funding through Congressman Sanford Bishop’s office and the Department of Labor, the organization is developing a custom mobile classroom to expand access to training across rural communities.
This mobile unit allows Golden Triangle RC&D to bring hands-on instruction directly to counties throughout the region, ensuring equitable access to valuable workforce development opportunities. Through a partnership with Baker Technology Institute (BTI), participants can now earn entry-level Heavy Equipment Operator certifications.
The program is led by certified BTI trainer Kevin Blackburn, who brings over 25 years of industry and training experience. Training sessions are open not only to county road department employees, but also to members of the public interested in careers in construction, public works, and heavy machinery operation.
Complementing this effort are Unpaved Road Best Management Practice (BMP) classes and simulator-based training, which remain cornerstone programs for improving rural infrastructure. Together, these initiatives are helping to build a skilled workforce, enhance road safety, and support long-term economic growth in the region.
Growing Sustainable Communities Through Agriculture
Golden Triangle RC&D also plays a vital role in promoting community agriculture—an approach that delivers environmental, economic, and social benefits. These efforts help reduce transportation costs, improve air quality, minimize runoff, and create hands-on learning opportunities for individuals of all ages.
At the heart of this work is the Golden Triangle RC&D Community Agriculture Center, a dynamic space designed for education and engagement. The center features pollinator gardens, hydroponic systems, raised beds, muscadine trellises, beehives, aquaponics, a bat box habitat, and composting areas.
Through outreach and education programs, participants can learn valuable skills such as beekeeping, composting, and sustainable farming practices. These experiences not only foster environmental awareness but also empower individuals to contribute to healthier, more resilient communities.
Building Stronger Futures
Golden Triangle RC&D’s work is rooted in a simple but powerful mission: investing in people and delivering practical solutions that strengthen communities. By combining environmental stewardship, workforce development, and community engagement, the organization continues to create lasting impacts across Southwest Georgia.
Through partnerships, innovation, and a commitment to service, Golden Triangle RC&D is helping build a stronger foundation for the future—one program, one community, and one individual at a time.