Regional Conservation Priorities Program
Through this program the Washington Sustainable Growth Alliance formally recognizes the regional conservation priorities that hold the most promise for contributing to our future quality of life and need immediate action in order to succeed. The list is issued as a high-quality print publication, A Call to Action, that highlights the initiatives, projects or programs that will encourage better conservation in the region in the broadest sense. Recognized projects range from rural land preservation policies, on-the-ground conservation projects, to urban green restoration initiatives. The Alliance presents this concise, attractive publication at a press conference that usually receives significant attention in the press.
The philosophy behind the program.
The Alliance believes that land conservation is more than just an amenity. From the Chesapeake Bay to the Anacostia River to the Blue Ridge, thoughtfully conceived conservation initiatives can help shape growth patterns over time and enhance land stewardship, air and water quality, and quality of life.
Done well, these projects can also reduce opposition to smart growth development by increasing certainty that high-quality open space will be preserved in the region or that green components of urban environments will be restored.
As a unique partnership of environmental, civic, real estate and business organizations, the Alliance can promote public awareness and provide critical support of these projects.
What kinds of projects are eligible for nomination?
- Specific parcels or geographic areas in need of preservation as working open space, parkland or natural areas
- State, regional or local policies/programs to promote land conservation or preservation of green infrastructure
- Capital projects that will benefit the natural environment, such as stream restoration or storm water management projects
- Restoration initiatives focusing on contaminated and/or blighted parcels, places or resources
How are the selections made?
The process begins with a Conservation Summit, where conservation, 
government and business representatives come together to identify a wide range of potential candidates for listing from throughout the region. Our conservation jury reviews these candidates in addition to any other nominations received from interested parties. The jury's final selections are those programs or projects that hold the most promise for contributing to the region's future quality of life, as well as those that can benefit most from independent support as they seek to increase public awareness, obtain funding or legislative support, or gain local or regional consensus or approval. Meet the conservation jurors.
How can you participate?
Anyone can nominate a conservation initiative for recognition and listing by submitting some basic information about the project or program to the Alliance. Download the nomination form here.
What is the deadline for nominations?
The deadline for the 2011 program has passed. Check back here for information on the next Regional Conservation Priorities List.
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