Idaho Conservationist, July 2013 Vol. XVI, Number 2 | Page 9

SUSTAINABILITY Keep Boise Great But how can a community preserve its heart well into the future? How can we best promote a healthy environment, economy and community moving forward? This is the true definition of “sustainability”: preserving the things we need for a happy and healthy life for our children’s children. Boise Greenbelt / Sara Arkle But it’s time to turn from “good” to “great.” Over the past few years, the Idaho Conservation League has urged city leaders to adopt a comprehensive and visionary approach to sustainability. In April, the Mayor and City Council began a conversation that we hope results in creation of an office of sustainability for Boise. Now, with the support of the full City Council and Mayor, we can work to keep Boise great. In April, the Mayor and City Council began a Sara Arkle Community Conservation Associate [email protected] The city of Boise has been poised to address the issue of sustainability head on since Mayor Dave Bieter signed the Mayor’s Climate Protection Agreement in 2007. Since that time, many city projects have incorporated energy efficiency measures. conversation that we hope results in creation of an office of sustainability for Boise. Wild Idaho! 2013 / Dani Mazzotta If you live in Boise, I don’t have to convince you that it’s a great place. From the Foothills to the Boise River, there’s plenty of opportunity for you to get outside and enjoy life. We live here because we love Boise. So thinking about the future of our community just makes good sense. Wild Idaho! Awards Each year at Wild Idaho! the Idaho Conservation League recognizes individuals for their contribution to conservation work. This year, the Keith and Pat Axline Award for Environmental Activism went to Jerry Pavia and Will Venard for their longstanding work to protect Long Canyon in North Idaho. The J. Robb Brady Award for Environmental Journalism went to Cynthia Sewell of the Idaho Statesman for coverage of the Dynamis project. ICL also recognized outgoing board chair Pat Haas for his exemplary service. Mary Beth Whitaker Designer & Editor [email protected] This year’s annual Wild Idaho! conference focused on conservation and politics (see page 10). 9