Connectivity and Conservation in Gateway Communities

Collaboration is an essential element throughout all levels of the ACGI program. At the April 2024 workshop in Decatur, Alabama, the seven teams brought together almost 40 public land representatives, elected officials, business and tourism representatives, civic leaders, arts representatives, and recreation and natural resource interests. Joining the teams through webinars and at the workshop were national and regional experts on asset-based economic development, destination stewardship, trail development, arts and culture, natural and recreation resources and community branding. One team member said that the highlights of the workshop were “collaboration, idea sharing and the ability to travel away from our communities for time together to dream and plan.”

Another participant shared that ACGI workshop allowed their team to “truly build an idea from the ground up, and look toward the coach for guidance on more high-level questions and potential challenges that we predict we may face.” And others remarked that the activities “really dialed us in on projects and ideas, and kept everyone engaged and realistic on goals.”

Arts and tourism play a special role in AGCI, with its focus on how to foster engagement and create experiences between people and place.

The workshop included a walking tour of Decatur’s main street and a farm to fork dinner in nearby Athens that highlighted the strength to be found when arts, agriculture, history, and entrepreneurs intersect. Participants also had the opportunity to visit the Jesse Owens Memorial Park while immersed in the extensive history, natural wonders, arts, and music that North Alabama offers. One participant shared that they “left inspired by the work they are doing in both downtowns.”

Just as each gateway community’s geography is unique, so are their individual assets and challenges. While some teams had been working together for years with specific projects already in mind, others may be gathering for the first time. The action-planning process threading through the course is designed to work with teams regardless of the specific starting point and advance their ability to successfully collaborate and implement action around the challenges and opportunities facing gateway communities.

It was wonderful to engage with the teams at this year’s ACGI workshop. They brought energy and great questions, and the program provided a structure-to-action plan along with creative ideas and examples to inspire them. We look forward to seeing each of them advance solutions to economically lift their regions while caring for their land, residents, visitors and natural resources.

Keep an eye out for project implementation news from these communities and find out more about implementation by past participants through ARC. You can also hear directly from participants and experience our recent workshop by watching this video: