Accomplishments

2005 Wildflower Walk, Lotus, CA Strengthening the Work of Place-Based Conservation Groups Throughout the Sierra Nevada The Alliance understands that long-term environmental improvements and protection in the Sierra depend on the creation of an environmental ethic in each community. The Alliance strengthens the work of Sierra groups. Accomplishments include: Founded and administered the Sierra Nevada AmeriCorps Partnership. The Alliance has recruited, trained and placed 27 AmeriCorps members a year since 2005 with over 20 conservation organizations and agencies. Members have restored thousands of acres, educated tens of thousands of individuals about Sierra conservation issues, monitored hundreds of miles of rivers, and recruited and managed thousands of volunteers for conservation projects. Awarded mini-grants supporting the work of over 22 groups throughout the Sierra. Grants funded educational outreach, strategic planning, pilot restoration projects and much much more. Organized 17 annual conferences and more than 10 regional meetings providing training, cutting-edge information, inspiration and networking. Conducted special projects to implement community solutions. For example, co-sponsorship of the West Point Economic Renewal Project produced a community plan that rejuvenates the local economy while protecting the environment. Promoted community-based, collaborative approaches as a problem-solving tool for Sierra organizations and communities. Trained numerous Sierra groups in the collaborative process. Provided updates on grant opportunities, resources, new reports, expert sources, and other Sierra conservation news to our member groups through Sierra News and the electronic Sierra Nevada Alliance Weekly.