The hallmark of our work is to delve into our partners’ needs, understand issues, and craft solutions that achieve outcomes that protect natural resources, while creating vibrant, sustainable economies. In sum we help ensure conservation that works for America.

We serve as a catalyst to action and impact. We work with community, government and corporate leaders to plan for the future, deepen regional connections, develop innovative conservation and economic strategies, and balance nature and commerce in ways that have a lasting impact.
 

Connect Regions

We connect regions by bringing together people who share common goals, despite professional or geographic distinctions. We’ve fostered partnerships and community economic development across the Canadian-Minnesota border branding the “Heart of the Continent”, along the Blue Ridge Parkway, and throughout the Appalachian Mountain area, for instance. In each case, community leaders developed new action plans to spur local economies and save favorite places.

 

Balance Energy and Environment

As America invests in energy infrastructure, we’re factoring in the environment. For example, energy provider NiSource Gas Transmission operates more than 15,500 miles of pipeline across 14 states. We worked with NiSource, the US Fish & Wildlife Service and state stakeholders to plan conservation across this entire region. Similarly, in the Midwest, we are convening wind energy companies, the US Fish & Wildlife Service, and state agencies to develop conservation plans for promoting renewable energy while protecting sensitive species.

Build Capacity and Develop Leaders

Collaborative learning is our niche and we are achieving results. Our community capacity workshops on green infrastructure planning are leading to the establishment of green infrastructure plans and our tourism assessments are changing communities. By providing an open, welcoming, and neutral environment for learning and dialogue, we inspire participants to test new ideas, exchange information, and form lasting partnerships.

Plan for the Future

West Virginia’s New River Gorge region is known as a recreation destination with wild scenery and small-town ambiance. That’s why, when New River Gorge was chosen as home to the annual Boy Scout Jamboree–and its 350,000 visitors–community leaders turned to us to plan its growing economy while keeping its character intact. We brought technical assistance to an audience made up of business leaders, elected officials, and public land managers to discover effective ways to balance nature and commerce.