It is Friday and I am finally on the plane returning home from an incredible week in our nation’s Capitol. And, I have one more meeting: Shayna Cherry with USDA Rural Development is sitting across aisle 14 from me and of course, we are reviewing all the opportunities that were created this past week.

What a week we had. I think we surpassed 100 meetings, and certainly met with at least 200 people. I am so proud of the work we all did to raise the visibility and understanding rural western communities. We told our stories from the Crown of the Continent to the Ranches of Range Renewal and the Forests of Future Fortune; collectively we proposed the most extensive, integrated approach to restoring the vitality of the land and communities that are the American West. We are not only ‘the radical middle’ but ‘proponents of radical solutions’ who are willing to advance, and implement, approaches that will achieve some of the most meaningful conservation achievements of our time.

For all of the people that were able to come to DC - I hope that each of you are able to internalize and sit comfortably with the truth that you are the future, the innovators, the people who will lead our country into the next chapter of American conservation. It is an honor to learn from you, to follow your visions, to assist in helping to make them real. Thank you for sharing your aspirations, knowledge, and hearts with us. You are why Sustainable Northwest exists. We are very grateful to have the opportunity to be associated with all of you. 

And congratulations on a week well done!  You worked hard and most definitely made an impact on the minds and hearts of our nation’s decision-makers. I hope you have the opportunity to share the experience with your community, peers, and networks.  As we move forward together we will have the chance to meet even more of the people that make what you are doing at home possible and viable. 

For the people rooting for us back home - Know that what we did in DC was a reflection of the broader movement tirelessly doing this work.  We couldn't have done it without you, and look forward to working with you to continue advancing RVCC's priorities in the coming year.

THANK YOU.

In admiration,

Maia