Resource conservation districts (RCDs) historically enabled landowners within their boundaries to receive technical assistance services from the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (previously Soil Conservation Service) related to land improvement techniques, conservation of resources, prevention and control of soil erosion. RCDs also provide public education about resource conservation issues.

The James Resource Conservation District covers about 26,263 acres (or 41 square miles) in west Fresno County. It is governed by a five-member Board of Directors who meet quarterly on the second Tuesday of January, April, July and October at 10:00 a.m.