This year, staff from Save Mount Diablo journeyed to Rhode Island to attend the Land Trust Alliance Rally, the national land conservation conference.
We were inspired by Indigenous perspectives, community conservation, and lessons in justice given by the plenary speakers, many of whom were from the Narragansett tribe, which inhabits Rhode Island.
The opening plenary. Photo by Mary Nagle
“This year’s groundbreaking Rally featured many Indigenous leaders describing their relationship with the land,” said Save Mount Diablo Senior Communications Manager Laura Kindsvater.
“I saw how much conservationists have in common with Indigenous peoples, the potential for collaboration and solving problems together. It was eye-opening and awe-inspiring!”
Save Mount Diablo staff at the Land Trust Alliance Rally. Photo by Sean Burke
Rally featured seminars and workshops that showcased new conservation practices from around the nation. Our staff came away with new knowledge and ideas on restoration, equity, partnerships, climate action, capacity building, and so much more.
In a world increasingly affected by the climate crisis, it’s vital that we take the time to learn and prepare for a changing future.
“The national land conservation conference, known as Rally, is the best land conservation conference on the planet,” noted Save Mount Diablo Executive Director Ted Clement.
“The challenges and complexities we face in protecting our natural world are significant. Therefore, we were so grateful to be able to have our Save Mount Diablo staff receive the excellent educational trainings and inspiration provided at this year’s Rally,” he said.
The Sakonnet Greenway Trail. Photo by Mary Nagle
While visiting Rhode Island, our staff connected with staff from the Aquidneck Land Trust, who gave us a tour of the Sakonnet Greenway Trail.
This trail connects protected lands on Aquidneck Island, many of which were preserved by the land trust, providing a publicly accessible connected greenway.
Save Mount Diablo staff learn about the Aquidneck Land Trust’s work. Photo by Mary Nagle
It was wonderful to learn about the Aquidneck Land Trust’s amazing work, and exchange conservation and land management ideas with their team.
Thank you to the Aquidneck Land Trust for teaching and inspiring us during our visit.
We look forward to incorporating the new knowledge and inspiration we gained from Rally into our work!
Photo by Mary Nagle
