Sierra Institute

The mission of the Sierra Institute is to promote healthy and sustainable forests and watersheds by investing in the well-being of diverse rural communities and strengthening their participation in natural resource decision-making and programs. As the sustainability of natural ecosystems and rural communities are inextricably linked, they strive to develop innovative projects that tackle the challenges of ecological restoration that benefit rural communities. Sierra Institute works at the local, regional, and national level to build capacity of rural communities through a variety of programs that aim to monitor and address socioeconomic well-being. They take a three-pronged approach to developing a stewardship ethic among rural and urban youth alike. This strategy involves place-based recreation, environmental education, and career development across natural and working landscapes.