Rural Voices for Conservation Coalition
As part of our ongoing effort to extend our reach beyond our traditional base of support to increase our effectiveness, our Community Forestry Coordinator, Warren Alford, is actively involved with the Rural Voices for Conservation Coalition (RVCC).
The RVCC is comprised of western rural and local, regional, and national organizations that have joined together to promote balanced conservation-based approaches to the ecological and economic problems facing the West. Learn more about the RVCC by visiting their website
SFL staffer, Warren Alford (1st from left) discusses policy with The Forest Guild’s Mike Debonis between legislative meetings in the hall of the Rayburn House Office Building, in Washington, D.C.
Warren attended the group’s annual policy meeting in November, 2007 and was actively involved in helping to develop some of the group’s issue papers. He recently traveled to the nation’s capital as a delegate for the Western Week in Washington (WWiW) from April 14-18, 2008 to help promote proactive solutions to help rural communities in the west address forest restoration needs and to help build sustainable rural economies. Check out the WWiW blog for more details on this effort.
Alford with other members of the RVCC and the many flags adorning the capital's halls.
This year the RVCC was represented by 14 organizations from six western states and the District of Columbia. Throughout the week participants attended approximately 50 meetings. The RVCC met with the Undersecretary of Natural Resources Mark Rey, and representatives Mike Crapo, Peter Defazio, Bill Sali and Greg Walden. The group also met with legislative staff members and staff for related House and Senate Committees.
As part of our robust and proactive Community Forestry Program, Sierra Forest Legacy will continue to engage in inportant efforts such as the Rural Voices for Conservation Coalition. Stay tuned for more developments and updates.