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What are some tips to get -- or keep
-- your locally-led conservation project moving?
1. Build a large tent. Recruit
a strong local advisory committee that represents a
cross section of community interests.
2. Play fair. Identify your
group decision-making process up-front.
3. Get on the same page. Establish
a group mission and community vision by consensus.
4. Create allies. Get out and
talk withthose who might, upon first glace, not be supportive.
They can become your strongest allies if you ask about
their concerns early on and address them sincerely.
5. Do a demo. A small-scale
but highly visible demonstration effort will help make
the larger project feel real and doable.
6. Achieve the possible. Set
achievable goals, record progress, and build momentum
by celebrating the small steps along the way.
7. Get on-site. See sidebar.
8. Be graphic. People respond
to images that help them visualize what you're proposing
-- use maps, drawings, photographs, websites, brochures,
slides, video and models.
9. Anticipate challenges. Consider
how the project might be impacted by the needs and concerns
of various landowners and by other community priorities.
Do your homework. Meet challenges with workable solutions.
10. Mobilize citizen power.
Area colleges, schools and community service groups
might have committed volunteers looking for projects
to tackle. Organize projects to use their time well.
Show your appreciation. Make it fun for them.
11. Evolve. Renew the group
with new participants and local expertise as the project
grows and changes.
12. Share success. Let everyone
claim ownership of your idea.
13. Be passionate. You are
improving the quality of life in your community and
conserving natural treasures for future generations!
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