The Work of the Initiative

1. Formation of Initiative.

During this completed phase, the leadership group formed and educated themselves on current threats, and existing efforts. They decided to focus further work on two areas of the landscape: the terrestrial ‘upland’ landscape that supports natural and human needs, and the 414 miles of ‘nearshore’ marine areas where the edges of the islands meet the sea.

2. Ecosystem-based assessment.

The assessment, launching now, will be an objective scientific and policy evaluation of the current regulatory, educational and incentive-based programs. It will identify what has and has not worked to protect our ecosystem. This phase is scheduled for completion in Spring 2008.

3. Identify and pursue improvements.

Staff and the leadership group will work with decision-makers, affected parties and scientists to identify the best areas for improvements in current efforts. Then, working closely with the County and other responsible organizations, the San Juan Iniatiive will work to implement these solutions.