Assistance to Hurricane Relief Efforts through a Local RC&Ds Colorado Big Country created partnerships with two local RC&D’s to assist in renovation efforts in the aftermath of Hurricanes Katrina and Rita. One thousand dollars ($1,000) was provided to Acadiana RC&D in Louisiana to help restore both the physical structure and the exhibits of the Acadian Museum in the town of Erath, hit hard by Hurricane Rita. This museum promotes awareness and appreciation of the mixed Prairie/Bayou Acadian culture particular to Vermilion Parish. Colorado Big Country RC&D also partnered with Mississippi Coastal Plains RC&D to help with the restoration of the Poplarville Nature Center in Poplarville, Mississippi. This nature center, which was heavily damaged by Hurricane Katrina, serves as an environmental education center for the entire community by hosting events and activities for youth and adult audiences. The following message has been received from Patty Rogers, Mississippi Coastal Plains RC&D Coordinator: “I hope you'll again express appreciation to your council members for the assistance in getting this project done. Without the financial support, we'd not have been able to get the project completed in such a timely manner. I know it's hard for folks to realize, even right here, but we've still got so much work to do and having the opportunity to get this done while we had volunteers available, was terrific and much appreciated by the staff and students at Poplarville Elementary School."