Introducing Conservation Montgomery
What is Conservation Montgomery? Conservation Montgomery is a new umbrella non-profit non-governmental coalition in Montgomery County, Maryland set up to represent a broad spectrum of resident interests on environmental and civic challenges facing the county. It is being established as a 501(c) 3 coalition funded by donations from member organizations and individuals within and adjacent to Montgomery County. Conservation Montgomery is a forum for residents of the county to analyze positions and records of elected officials on environmental and quality of life issues and a tool for informing stakeholders of their role in preserving a higher quality of life and cleaner environment in Montgomery County.
What is the organization’s mission and vision? Our mission is to sustain Montgomery County’s quality of life and natural resources for current and future generations. Conservation Montgomery’s vision is an environmentally literate citizenry and elected officials who consider environmental impacts in decision -making.
What issues will the organization focus on? Conservation Montgomery will focus on the following areas of environmental and civic interest for county residents: stormwater management, increasing tree and forest canopy, climate change impacts and mitigation, energy conservation, sustainable transportation, smart growth and citizen involvement in land use, parks and green space preservation, and walkable and bike-friendly communities
Who formed Conservation Montgomery? The coalition was set up by a steering committee composed of many of the community members who were recently honored as “40 Environmentalists Who Made a Difference” in the county on the 40th anniversary of Earth Day 2010. It is co chaired by Diane Cameron and Caren Madsen.
Why is a new coalition needed to represent environmental and civic interests? When it comes to quality of life issues and advocacy, two of the most vocal and dedicated sectors of stakeholders are civic organizations and environmental NGOs. During the last election cycle in the county, environmental issues took a back seat to other issues. Candidates made promises, yet less than a handful of elected officials have delivered on promises to introduce and champion legislation that will preserve our natural resources and our quality of life. In recent months, the county parks budget has been slashed along with the budget for maintaining and replanting street trees. The time has come for residents to hold elected official accountable for promises made and for residents to have a forum for addressing these issues broadly and under a coalition of active civic associations and others interested in a sustainable Montgomery County. Under one large coalition, we can combine resources and will underscore how environmental issues intersect and enhance the vitality, livability, health and growth of our community.
What will Conservation Montgomery do? Conservation Montgomery will work to better inform residents about their role in environmental stewardship and will actively seek commitments from elected officials in order to meet the goals of the organization. The nonprofit will maintain a community bulletin board or blog, a resources database, operate a website for residents and coalition members and, when appropriate, will testify at County Council or Montgomery Planning Commission hearings. Coalition members will take part in community events to promote environmental literacy and quality of life in the county and will serve as a resource for county residents when they witness violations of environmental laws or when stronger public participation is called for.
How can I help? Make a donation to Conservation Montgomery at www.ConservationMontgomery.org and visit the website. You can also sign on as a member and offer your own information resources or web links to Conservation Montgomery’s webmaster. Most important: Stay involved and watch for our scorecard on the 2010 County candidates’ positions on environmental and quality of life issues.
Website: www.ConservationMontgomery.org
