The Conservation Fund Launches the National Summit On Infrastructure and the Environment

May 29, 2009

Contact:
Vanessa Vaughan, The Conservation Fund, 703.908.5809

Arlington, VA — The Conservation Fund is hosting an innovative event to help national leaders rebuild the American economy through infrastructure projects that also benefit our environment. The National Summit on Infrastructure and the Environment: Seeking Better Outcomes Through Better Process, to be held this fall, will bring together a powerful alliance of leaders in the energy, transportation and water sectors who seek to effectively move infrastructure projects forward while conserving our natural resources.

In a unique collaboration, the National Summit on Infrastructure and the Environment convenes the nation's top infrastructure associations around this timely issue. Key Summit supporters and participants include: the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials; the American Petroleum Institute; the Edison Electric Institute; the Interstate Natural Gas Association of America; and the National Association of Clean Water Agencies. Additional speakers and participants will include senior Obama Administration officials from the U.S. Department of the Interior, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Council on Environmental Quality and more.

With nearly 1 trillion government and private dollars pending for "shovel-ready" infrastructure projects, leaders from across America need ways to begin the rebuilding quickly. The Conservation Fund brings 24 years of leadership in public-private partnerships that conserve land, strategically plan growth and manage dedicated funds to balance economic needs and environmental goals.

To be held September 29-October 1, 2009, at the National Conservation Training Center in Shepherdstown, West Virginia, the Summit will foster a high-level dialogue for representatives across industry and government, allowing collaboration using the tools now at hand to advance vital infrastructure projects. Participants will learn, through case studies, how their peers have strategically and responsibly compressed reviews and approval processes to move forward projects with beneficial outcomes for both the economy and environment. This event offers new insights, catalyzing progress at a time that our nation stands poised to grow.

"We're honored to be working with an outstanding group of public and private partners to advance this bold new front for America’s infrastructure and environment," says Larry Selzer, president and CEO of The Conservation Fund. "The time is right, and we have the tools we need. Together, we’re making our nation stronger and healthier —for ourselves and our environment."

About The Conservation Fund

The Conservation Fund is dedicated to advancing America’s land and water legacy. With our partners, we conserve land, train leaders and invest in conservation at home. Since 1985, we have helped protect more than 6 million acres, sustaining wild havens, working lands and vibrant communities. We're a top-ranked conservation organization, effective and efficient.