Environment – principally the non-living (geology, soil, water, air) and living components (plants and animals) of the landscape around the community. In rural areas it is this dimension, particularly when combined with the cultural heritage of people on the land, that gives each community its distinct character, challenges and opportunities. Increasingly the Institute is supporting collaborations that engage the many voices interested in the environment in establishing sustainable management of their landscape. In particular, the Institute supports watershed councils that gather a diverse group of citizens to address the mix of human, economic and environmental issues.
