Collaborative Conservation: Building Habits of Democracy by Lynn Scarlett, Global Chief External Affairs Officer , The Nature Conservancy (Retired ), July 2025 Originally Published: https://salazarcenter.colostate.edu/building-habits-of-democracy/ One Fall some years ago, I hiked a stretch of trail in Glacier National Park. I then hiked another stretch in Waterton National Park in Canada. I savored the magnificence of these two places-the vistas of craggy peaks, the aquamarine glacial lakes, the wetlands rich in wildlife, the meadows golden and shimmering in the wind. I saw golden grizzlies-far off across the hillside. Later, after my hikes, I visited ranchers, firefighters, bear biologists, community leaders, and First Nation peoples whose lives and livelihoods are linked to lands and waters along this Crown of the Continent. All these people were engaged in distinct, yet increasingly linked social, environmental, and economic endeavors to enhance-not merely sustain-lands, waters, wildlife, communities, and economies. These efforts are not easy, but…
During this year’s 2026 Annual Forest Collaborative Workshop, the Idaho Forest Restoration Partnership recognized individuals and partners whose leadership, collaboration, and dedication continue to strengthen forest restoration efforts across Idaho and the Inland Northwest. These awards celebrate the people and organizations helping bring stakeholders together, build lasting partnerships, and advance collaborative solutions for healthier forests and resilient communities. Volunteer of the Year Award The Volunteer of the Year Award recognizes an individual who has demonstrated outstanding dedication to bringing stakeholders together to seek collaborative solutions. This year’s recipient is Liz Bridges for her leadership and involvement with the Boise Forest Coalition, Highway 21 Corridor Group, and Greater Boise Recreationists. Through her collaborative approach and commitment to public engagement, Liz has helped strengthen partnerships and encourage meaningful dialogue around forest management and recreation issues. Group of the Year Award The Group of the Year Award recognizes a collaborative participant or group…