The RC&D was authorized in 2000 under the United States Department of Agriculture. It includes the seven counties of Clay, Fillmore, Franklin, Harlan, Nuckolls, Thayer, and Webster. The RC&D is a unique program that is led by local volunteer councils that help care for and protect their natural resources in a way that improves the local economy, environment and living standards. RC&D is a way for people to work together to plan and carry out activities that will make their areas a better place to live. The purpose of RC&D is to promote conservation, development and utilization of natural resources; to improve the general level of economic activity; and enhance the environmental and standard of living in all communities.

Activities include: hazardous waste cleanup, tire recycling, rural water district, Republican River Restoration, Women's Wilderness Weekend, Career Day Expo, Community Tree Improvement, tourism promotion projects, Legacy Foundation, and many more.

The council meets on the fourth Monday of the month. Officers are President, LeRoy Schafer; Vice President, Garold Ohmstede; Secretary, Arlis Hohl; Treasurer, Jim Farmer; Coordinator, Steve Meyer; and Program Assistant, Jan Harvey.

Mission: The mission of Trailblazer RC&D is to utilize innovative, collaborative leadership to advance the potential of the region.