Mountain Studies Institute Strategic Plan 2021-2023

Strategic Plan 2021-2023 4
OUR CORE VALUES & RELATIONSHIPS
A set of interconnected values and principles guide our work. These values are demonstrated through a variety
of research and educational approaches. MSI focuses on both the ecological concerns and community needs of
the San Juan Mountains region during a time of significant social, economic and environmental transition.
1) Is Place-Based in the San Juan Mountains
MSI is an active part of the social, physical, and ecological landscape of the San Juan Mountains region. We
are consistently informed and driven by our sense of place. We seek to learn alongside our communities
and serve as a connector to help disseminate information and knowledge to our partners and stakeholders
here in the San Juans—and beyond to other communities around the world.
2) Enhances Interactions between Natural Resources and Communities
MSI builds capacity by emphasizing the interaction among natural resources, social and economic change,
and needs for community understanding and/or adaptation.
3) Seeks Useful and Meaningful Outcomes
MSI stresses applied science and meaningful research that results in useful outcomes, pursuing
opportunities that link science, community understanding, and knowledge.
4) Leads by Example
MSI leads by example, engaging in hands-on forest, watershed and river restoration work on the ground
when it can be structured as a participatory action research, pilot testing, and/or education activities.
5) Cultivates Collaborative Partnerships
MSI works through collaborative partnerships in all phases of its research and education processes. We
seek to enhance the strengths of our partners by building productive relationships and connections.
6) Encourages Active Community Involvement
MSI is committed to empowering communities through consistent inclusion and active involvement of
community leaders in science-based initiatives, citizen science, and stewardship.
7) Sponsors Community Dialog in Public Forums
MSI fosters collaborative dialogue to enable people with the skills, information and opportunity to
participate in and inform community decision making. We use innovative applications to connect people to
address ecological and community concerns in the San Juan Mountains.
8) Seeks Resilient, Adaptive Solutions
MSI tests new solutions to vexing problems, emphasizing resilient, adaptive solutions.