For over twenty years, Sierra Institute has developed innovative, place-based programs by engaging rural stakeholders through applied research, pilot studies, and collaborative problem solving. Recognizing the direct relationship rural communities have with forest landscapes, the Institute strives to promote social, environmental, and economic approaches that are sustainable from both human and ecological perspectives. Current Areas of Focus: Supporting Healthy Forests and Watersheds The Sierra Institute understands that the sustainability of natural ecosystems and rural communities are inextricably linked. We strive to develop innovative projects that tackle the challenges of ecological restoration and rural community development as one. Building Vibrant Communities The Sierra Institute works at the local, regional, and national level to advance woody renewables in impoverished communities facing high threat from catastrophic wildfire. Through the Rural Community Development Initiative, the Sierra Institute provides organizational and technical capacity building assistance to nine community organizations working on forest biomass utilization projects. In addition, the Sierra Fellows Program places advanced-degree Fellows into communities throughout the Sierra Nevada and Southern Cascades. These fellows work collaboratively with rural communities to address their most pressing local needs. Developing Young Stewards We take a three-pronged approach to developing a stewardship ethic among rural and urban youth alike. This strategy involves recreation, environmental education and career development. Our recreation-focused programs include Friday Night for Teens and Greenville Outdoor Adventure Learning (GOAL). Sierra Institute also works with Greenville High School Natural Resources Program and leads P-CREW (Plumas Conservation, Restoration, and Education in Watersheds) summer internships.