Meaningful progress in land conservation relies on communities of people working together in sustained ways around a common purpose. Over the years, we’ve seen firsthand the impact of conservation efforts throughout the Northeast made greater because of the communities with which we collaborate and participate. We’re also inspired everyday knowing that the work we do helps to connect communities to one another and to the land that sustains us. Looking ahead, we strive to reach new communities through our work so that someday everyone in cities, suburbs, and rural areas across the region sees the power and importance of forestland, trees, parks, and farmland in their lives.
Collaborative conservation
We collaborate across communities of land trusts, landowners, conservation groups, policymakers, funders, scientists, and academics to help us advance conservation efforts at the local level and at a regional scale. Our role within each community varies based on need and resources—we serve as leaders, conveners, participants, and advisers. Most important is that we show up in these communities in ways that will help people accelerate their specific land conservation goals. We know that when we participate actively in these communities, we’re also helping to advance the bigger long-term goals.
Land for all
We see land as a great connector, reminding us of our inextricable connection to one another. When done well, land conservation reflects a community’s expressed needs and its interest in preserving its relationship with nature. Communities are defined in infinite ways by physical location, race, age, gender, interests, goals, political affiliation, shared experience, or any combination of these things. All communities, regardless of how they are defined, benefit from the land in countless ways—from providing us with clean air, safe drinking water, and healthy food to ensuring our environment is livable in the future. Through research, education, collaboration, and communication efforts, we aspire to bring all communities closer to one another and closer to the land.
Community is an essential ingredient in land conservation. At Highstead, we continue to deepen our existing relationships and seek new opportunities for working together. We hope you’ll join us.
