Fort Ord has a rich and long history as a U.S. Army installation, with more than 1.5 million solders having served at Fort Ord from World War I to Desert Storm. The base closed its gates and became part of U.S. military history in 1994 opening up some of the last remaining open space in the Monterey Bay area.

The Fort Ord Public Lands, managed by BLM, support a beautiful and diverse group of plants and animals, including several plant and wildlife species that depend largely on Fort Ord for their survival. The area offers 86 miles of trail that are open for bicyclists (mountain and road), hikers, trail runners, horseback riders, wildlife/wildflower photographers, nature enthusiasts and search and rescue training.

At Friday’s meeting the community spoke with one voice in support of permanently protecting the public lands at Fort Ord as a national monument.

This historic action will protect critical wildlife habitats, keep drinking water for millions who live downstream clean and safe, and preserve the region’s awe-inspiring natural beauty, safeguarding tourism-related jobs.

Theodore Roosevelt designated the Grand Canyon as a national monument on January 11, 1908, declaring, “Let this great wonder of nature remain as it now is. You cannot improve on it. But what you can do is keep it for your children, your children’s children, and all who come after you, as the one great sight which every American should see.”

The reasons to protect this special place are as countless as the spectacular views. During the announcement, Secretary Salazar stated, “We have been entrusted to care for and protect our precious environmental and cultural resources, and we have chosen a responsible path that makes sense for this and future generations.”

What a year it’s been, for both the National Conservation Lands and the Conservation Lands Foundation.

We would like to express our sincere thanks to our supporters and partners for all your efforts during the past year. Together, we:

• Built new partnerships with local grassroots organizations and mobilized them to advocate for the betterment of the National Conservation Lands;
• Secured clear management direction for the National Conservation Lands from the Secretary of the Interior and the Bureau of Land Management which reflects our vision and recommendations for the places we love;
• Successfully fended off attempts to gut the Antiquities Act, one of our nation’s essential tools for protecting public lands;
• Demonstrated strong local support for National Monument designations, worked with coalition partners to encourage the President to use the Antiquities Act to protect our nation’s natural and cultural heritage, and laid the groundwork for additional land protections in the future. On Nov. 1, 2011 President Obama used the Antiquities Act to designate Fort Monroe National Monument in Virginia.
• Brought attention to the natural and cultural splendor of the National Conservation Lands through major media coverage including a cover story in Parade Magazine: Saving our National Treasures.

None of this would have been possible without your support. To help keep us in a strong financial position to do even more great work next year, your financial support remains essential. Please help us with an online donation to the Conservation Lands Foundation.

From all of us at the Conservation Lands Foundation, we wish you a joyful holiday season and look forward to all the opportunities the New Year promises.

Removing buffelgrass from the Ironwood Forest National Monument

On Saturday, December 10th, a small, but dedicated group of volunteers joined together to pull buffelgrass at El Cerrito Represso in the southern portion of Ironwood Forest National Monument. The project, sponsored by the Friends of Ironwood Forest and the Bureau of Land Management, continues the efforts to remove buffelgrass from the area.

Despite a cold start, the morning dawned clear and beautiful, as volunteers enjoyed the silence and several species of birds in the area where we were working. Hiking up the steep, rocky east side of the hill, we began the strenuous work of pulling out the invasive, non-native buffelgrass. As we enjoyed each other’s company, I happened to notice several groups of vehicles pull into the parking area at the base of the hill. Our BLM representative had stayed behind in this area in case recreational shooters attempted to use the area, in spite of the posted closing for the volunteer project. BLM law enforcement representatives were in the area to keep an eye out for illegal activity associated with illegal drug and human smuggling, often occurring on the Monument.

At about 11 am, we began to hear shots being fired. The sound appeared to be coming from the west side of the hill where we were working. However, over the last three hours of work, we had made our way from the east side to the south side of the hill. As I attempted to contact our BLM representative ¼ mile away at the parking area, I became increasingly concerned for the safety of our volunteers and myself. The shots were clearly coming from semi-automatic weapons. I was certain they were shooting at the very hill we were working on. After a few minutes, we headed down the hill to wrap up our work and enjoy some snack.

I decided to descend the rocky slope ahead of the volunteers in order to reach our BLM representative as quickly as possible. I really wanted to know what was going on and why, with BLM law enforcement in the area, shooters were being allowed to actively discharge their firearms in the general area where we were working. As I reached the parking area, I explained the situation to the law enforcement agent who has recently arrived. It appears that despite the BLM representative clearly explaining to the shooters that they must go away from the hill and to not shoot in its direction because of volunteers working on it, that they did just the opposite.

I am still very upset at this series of events. This is not the first time that volunteers have been put at risk while working on the Monument. Despite the attempts of BLM personnel and law enforcement it seems the only way to ensure the safety of the people who volunteer their time is to simply not allow it in the first place. Our repeated attempts to ensure volunteer safety under all circumstances must take precedence over everything else that we do. I realize now that I was far too confident in BLM’s ability to closely monitor the shooting activities in the area where we were working. And I can assure you I will not make that mistake again.

There is only one solution to this problem, recreational shooting must be prohibited within the Monument. Extensive documentation has been compiled by the BLM itself, demonstrating the damage being done to the very resources the Monument is intended to protect. Ironwood Forest was designated a National Monument in 2000, but still does not have a completed management plan. That means that for the last 11 years, this destructive activity has been allowed to continue, despite the known damage that it is causing, and despite the risk volunteers and Monument visitors face from stray bullets.

The Friends of Ironwood Forest and several of our partner organizations filed a petition with the BLM on Friday, December 9, 2011. This petition is a formal request of the agency to take immediate action to close the Monument to recreational shooting. The safety of visitors and volunteers must be ensured. And, the Bureau must take action to prevent the extensively documented damage occurring to the sensitive plants, animals, and cultural sites, that are to be protected as part of the nationally significant resources that find refuge at Ironwood Forest National Monument.

Throughout the West, there are amazing people and organizations working to protect and support America’s National Conservation Lands. The folks doing this work aren’t looking for recognition, but boy do they deserve it! In September, the Conservation Lands Foundation said thanks to all our Friends groups and recognized three in particular for their tireless contributions in support of our public lands.

Conversation Leadership Award – The Fort Stanton Cave Study Project

For outstanding leadership to advance the protection of the National Conservation Lands through visionary, innovative and strategic projects

The members of the Fort Stanton Cave Study Project in New Mexico have explored the cave system alongside internationally recognized cave scientists in fields including biology, hydrology (water studies), geology and cartography. The work they have done has lead to fascinating discoveries about the historic usage of the cave. Their explorations also led to the discovery of a major extension to the cave in 2001. This new passage led to the designation of the Fort Stanton-Snowy River Cave National Conservation Area in 2009, adding more than 25,000 acres to the National Conservation Lands.

Friends Group of the Year – Colorado Canyons Association

For outstanding and comprehensive leadership as a Friends group to advance the protection, restoration and expansion of the National Conservation Lands

Take a look below at the reaction of local citizens, sportsmen and business owners praising the report. Read our press release.

Browns Canyon

Browns Canyon includes some of the most picturesque vistas in Colorado, with granite canyons stretching along the Arkansas River and merging into mixed forests and meadows.

Keith Baker, owner of The Trailhead (an outdoor clothing and equipment store) in Buena Vista, Colorado commented, “Like many businesses in our county, we depend on the thousands of tourists who visit this area to take advantage of local recreational opportunities. Protecting Browns Canyon would preserve opportunities for those who raft, fish, hike, etc. in this area and help preserve our local economy.”

“The effort to protect Brown’s Canyon has had such tremendous local support because it is such a special area.  It is rare to find a river canyon with such spectacular geology, fishing, and vistas that is accessible to so many visitors,” commented Michael Kunkel, owner of Lifestream Water Systems in Salida, Colorado. “As excited as I am that Brown’s Canyon has been recognized as a Crown Jewel, I’ll be even happier when Browns finally gets the protection it deserves.”

Gold Butte

Gold Butte, Nevada’s piece of the Grand Canyon, provides outstanding recreational opportunities for hunting and hiking and contains important Native American and Pioneer history.

“We made the deliberate choice to buy home in Mesquite in order to be close to natural resources for hiking, exploring, and photography.  Gold Butte wonderfully fulfills all of those requirements and so much more.  We are out exploring at least weekly and feel lucky to have access to this beautiful place,” said Terri Rylander who works as a technology industry consultant.

El Rio Grande del Norte

The El Rio Grande del Norte encompasses some of the most spectacular lands in all of New Mexico. The Rio Grande cuts into the Servilleta lava flows that make up the Taos Plateau just above the Colorado border.

“This is a place that hunters have cherished for centuries. Protecting it honors our heritage and also helps boost a sustainable local economy built on high-quality outdoor opportunity and traditions,” commented Taos, New Mexico resident and avid hunter, Garrett VeneKlasen.

San Juan Islands

The San Juan Islands in the San Juan Archipelago, Washington State, include nearly 1,000 acres of small islands and reefs that provide breeding grounds for birds and safe refuges for everything from harbor seal pups to rare plants. The islands also provide opportunities for hiking, wildlife viewing, boating, sea kayaking and camping for residents and visitors. Community leaders have been seeking protections for the San Juan Islands for years.

“We appreciate the Bureau of Land Management and Department of Interior’s recognition of the importance of protecting the proposed San Juan Islands National Conservation Area. We want to ensure that these lands receive the high degree of protection and stewardship they deserve. The National Conservation Area designation is a way to achieve this which honors the community’s desire to have direct input into the management of these lands. Our island environment is a unique complement to BLM’s special landscapes, said Lopez Island resident and member of Islanders for San Juan Islands NCA member, Sally Reeve.”

Read Secretary Salazar’s backcountry recommendations.

Fort Monroe is the site of an extraordinary—and overlooked—chapter in our country’s history. The site marks both the beginning of slavery and the beginning of the end of slavery in our country. National Monuments matter, they are a way to ensure that future generations will be able to experience history and connect with nature. It will also protect miles of beaches to provide much needed public access. It will be an economic engine and a legacy for our children and grandchildren.

As a result of local and bipartisan support, and President Obama’s decisive and significant action, Fort Monroe is now recognized and protected for its unique role in our history and will be enjoyed by all Americans.

Click here to thank President Obama and Virginia’s leaders.

Location: Durango, CO preferred; Other office locations include: Washington, D.C., San Francisco, CA, Bozeman, MT, Reno, NV and Phoenix, AZ

Position Reports to:  Development Director

Closing Date:  Nov. 25, 2011

 GENERAL DESCRIPTION:

The Conservation Lands Foundation is a national non-profit organization headquartered in Durango, Colorado with offices in California, Arizona, Nevada, Montana and Washington, DC. The Foundation was created in 2007 to ensure the Bureau of Land Management is able to provide long-term protection for the lands and waters within the National Conservation Lands (formally known as the National Landscape Conservation System). Our mission is to protect, restore and expand the National Conservation Lands through education, advocacy, and partnerships.

 The Foundation seeks an experienced and creative development professional to join its efforts in building a sound financial base to support its operational and programmatic initiatives. The Associate Director of Foundation and Corporate Giving is primarily responsible for: conducting foundation and corporate prospect research; inspiring philanthropy through written proposals to new and existing funders; building corporate partnerships; and pursuing workplace giving opportunities. The Associate Director of Foundation and Corporate Giving will work closely with the Foundation’s staff and Board of Directors to build and nurture relationships with current and prospective funders.

 This position requires: passion for writing; a knack for gathering, distilling and disseminating information in a creative and timely fashion; strong attention to detail; and, ability to manage multiple demands and meet deadlines. The successful candidate will possess a keen sense of humor and enjoy working on projects independently and in a team environment.   

 QUALIFICATIONS:

Qualified applicants: are committed to the Conservation Lands Foundation’s mission and are knowledgeable of the issues and opportunities surrounding public land conservation; have five or more years of experience in Fund Development; are versed in foundation and corporate prospect research; possess technical writing expertise and critical thinking skills; have demonstrated success in securing grants from foundations and corporations and meeting revenue goals; are comfortable using digital media for research and other purposes; work well with all personality types; are able to adapt quickly to changing conditions; possess excellent communication skills and a strong work ethic; are highly motivated; are proficient with Microsoft Office computer applications and relationship management databases; have earned a Bachelor’s degree or higher; and are able to work flexible hours.

 PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES:

1. Adhere to strategic plan and annual budget; meet established revenue goals;
2. Work with Development Director to create and successfully implement the Fund Development annual plan;
3. Work with Foundation staff to identify funding needs and opportunities; Identify and research foundation and corporate prospects and match operational and programmatic needs with prospects’ interests;
4. Draft relevant and compelling letters of intent and proposals to current and prospective funders; Diversify the Foundation’s base of support by securing new sources of funding from foundations and corporations;    
5. Establish and maintain relationships with foundation trustees, program officers and corporate contacts through phone calls, site visits/face-to-face meetings and written communications;
6. Develop, implement and track guidelines for grant contracts to assure compliance with grant terms; Prepare reports for funders as required by grant contracts.
7. Manage contributing writers for proposals and reports;
8. Establish a Corporate Giving program;
9. Research and pursue workplace giving opportunities;
10. Input data in CiviCore database to track relationships with funders and prospects, funding interests, proposal notes, reporting requirements and deadlines;  
11. Track trends in philanthropy for foundation and corporate giving;
12. Support the Foundation’s digital media/communications efforts through blogging, social media updates, digital photography and video;
13. Work with colleagues to draft, edit and proof other written materials as appropriate;
14. Secure corporate sponsorships for the Foundation’s annual “Friends Rendezvous” and support colleagues in planning and executing the conference;
15. Support the team environment with creativity, knowledge and humor.

 Salary is competitive with an excellent benefits package that includes health and dental insurance. The Conservation Lands Foundation is an equal opportunity employer and actively works to ensure fair and equal treatment of its employees and partners regardless of differences based on culture, socioeconomic status, race, marital or family situation, gender, age, ethnicity, religious beliefs, physical ability or sexual orientation.

 This position will be based in Durango, CO, Washington, D.C., San Francisco, CA, Bozeman, MT, Reno, NV or Phoenix, AZ. 

 Interested applicants should send an essay (not to exceed 500 words) regarding a formative outdoor experience along with a cover letter and resume with the subject line “Associate Director of Foundation and Corporate Giving” to jen@conservationlands.org. No phone calls please.

The occasion was a stewardship project, organized by local hosts Friends of the Desert Mountains, in the Santa Rosa-San Jacinto Mountains National Monument. This 272,000-acre Monument is an impressive backdrop behind the city and hotel where the Rendezvous was held, so it was a great opportunity to see the area up close and dive into some physical labor.

About 50 Rendezvous people picked up trash, pulled weeds and fixed trails. Twenty Friends of the Desert Mountains staff and volunteers, organized by Arielle Maccio, Director of Volunteer Services, served as group leaders and organized lunch for the whole group. Several BLM staff members in the region devoted their Sunday to the project as well.

We hauled away bags of invasives, lined appropriate trails with rocks, obliterated old ones, swept up broken glass, dug holes and set new signs. One group mixed about a dozen bags of concrete and built a stone wall to shore up a fence. The fence is important because at certain times of the year, it closes off a portion of the area that is breeding habitat for the region’s endangered Peninsular Bighorn sheep population.

No strangers to on-the-ground restoration work, this group returned to the conference hotel predictably dirty, hot and a little tired. Another great day in the field.

It was tough taking notes during the one-minute presentations. The stories were flying, and laughter and applause sometimes drowned out the speakers. But here’s our best attempt at compiling some of these “one-minute” success stories.

• Donna Lamm, Amargosa Conservancy’s Executive Director, said her group held a long-awaited celebration party for the many people who contributed to the recent designation of the Amargosa as a Wild and Scenic River. They also launched a hydrogeologic study that is likely to shed new light on old assumptions about the river.
• A group of native frogs ready for reintroduction into Arizona’s Cienega Creek, as well as the successful reintroduction of five colonies of black prairie dogs, were among the accomplishments reported by Trevor Hare, of the Cienega Watershed Partnership.
• Sara Husby-Good, Tuleyome, announced that Angel Martinez joined their staff as a Wyss Fellow to work on the proposed Berryessa Snow Mountain National Conservation Area. Tuleyome was also awarded a $1.4 million grant to clean up three abandoned mercury/nickel mines in the upper Putah Creek watershed.
• Friends of Red Rock Canyon were excited about a new effort to stage much-needed volunteers around the 13-mile Red Rock driving “loop,” to help guide and talk with visitors who flock to this area. Board member Pat Williams also redesigned their flagship publication, The Rock. Later on during the Rendezvous, we all celebrated Pat as she was named Advocate of the Year by the Conservation Lands Foundation.
• Qualifying in the “raucous” category, David Eddleston with Friends of Oregon Badlands Wilderness told a story about leading VIPs and first-time visitors on hikes… to the sounds of live bagpipes and the promise of a delicious whiskey, cream and honey drink at the end of the journey.
• Friends of Nevada Wilderness, who were recently awarded the Department of Interior’s Partners in Conservation Award in Washington DC, gathered critical baseline data about natural springs located in the Black Rock Desert-High Rock Canyon Emigrant Trails National Conservation Area. And on the Sheldon National Wildlife Refuge, Friends’ crews removed 74 miles—miles—of barbed-wire fence, with the help of a field tool designed by Friends of Sloan Canyon’s Bill James.
• Friends of Black Rock/High Rock filled a 40-yard dumpster with old car bodies and other junk. They also became the first Network group—or any kind of conservation group that we know of—to launch their own FM radio station based in nearby Gerlach, NV. This will enable them to broadcast to the 50,000 or more people who gather every year for Burning Man, as well as to local residents.
• This one belongs in the “if you can’t beat’em, join’em” category. Friends of Sloan Canyon, frustrated when the Henderson, NV Chamber of Commerce left Sloan Canyon National Conservation Area out of its official chamber maps and publications, took the direct approach: they joined the Chamber of Commerce. A few months later, the Chamber revised its maps and has begun to promote the Sloan Canyon National Conservation Area in its outreach materials.
• Mark Maryboy, The Wilderness Society, announced the publication of Diné Bikéyah, a beautiful new book that conveys in their own words and through magnificent photographs, the Navajo people’s sentiments and convictions for public lands in Utah’s San Juan County. The book in part reads, “To honor the deep history and continuing interests of the Navajo Nation in this region, we will be proposing the Utah Navajo have a formal role in planning and managing the Diné Bikéyah National Conservation Area.”
• Friends of the Inyo celebrated the timely fact that the Bodie Hills region of California’s eastern Sierra, a place the group has been seeking long-term protection for, was featured on the front page of the L.A. Times that very day.
• Working with the Mesquite, NV Chamber of Commerce, Friends of Gold Butte helped design and build a Gold Butte “room” in the Chamber’s visitor center. Photos, artwork, and maps highlight Gold Butte and provide “leave no trace” and other guidance to visitors.
• Chris Meachum, President of Friends of Saddle Mountain, celebrated the leadership and vision of three of his board members who also came to the Rendezvous: Peggy Sites, Carol Millette, and Paul Roetto.
• In St. George, UT, Citizens for Dixie’s Future impressed county officials by organizing a meeting and workshop with Headwater Economics, designed to help local leaders understand the positive economic impact National Monuments have on neighboring communities.
• The Mattole Restoration Council conducted an impressive number of restoration projects, and were especially proud of being able to provide 40 paid, summer internships to high school students.
• Friends of the Cliffs board members celebrated the hiring of their new director, Maggie Sacher.

…And the list goes on. If we’ve missed reporting on your one-minute success story, or left out a key component, please leave us a comment and fill in the gap. Thank you.