The Downstream Project has received a 2023 Land & Water Initiative grant from the Chesapeake Bay Funders Network and Land Trust Alliance. to coordinate the Blue Ridge Conservation Alliance, a network of partners working to protect the natural, scenic, and historic values of the Blue Ridge from Front Royal, Va., to Harpers Ferry, W.Va.
The focus of the coming years is strengthening relationships with local government.One featured project is an onboarding guide for local and state government officials from the conservation perspective, so newly elected or appointed officials know their BRCA partners and what they do. Downstream also will coordinate welcome committees to meet with new officials in 2024. These get-to-know-you appointments are critical to help new public officials understand the array of challenges and programs designed to conserve fields and forests, restore rivers and streams, and help meet the goals of the Chesapeake Bay Agreement.
For information about BRCA, visit blueridgeconservation.org.
