Building Bridges in Idaho: Strengthening Partnerships for Environmental Justice
By Ladan Ghahramani and Tyler Wagner
As part of our commitment to providing equitable technical assistance across Region 10 (Alaska, Oregon, Washington, and Idaho), Tyler Wagner and I recently spent a productive week in Idaho. Our mission was threefold: to gain a deeper understanding of the environmental challenges faced by Idaho communities, to strengthen our partnership with Boise State University's Hazard and Climate Resilience Institute (HCRI), and to spread the word about our services to communities in need. From the mountain towns of McCall and Cascade in Valley County to the state capital of Boise, our trip gave us a comprehensive look at Idaho’s unique environmental landscape and the strong connections between economic development and environmental justice.
As part of our time with the Hazard and Climate Resilience Institute, we had the pleasure of attending a dynamic networking event that brought students, partners, and experts together to explore environmental challenges and solutions. The theme of the event, Building Bridges, couldn't have been more fitting—both literally and figuratively.
The event included engaging in small-group discussions where participants shared the environmental challenges they felt were most pressing for communities across the state. From water conservation to wildfire management, the room buzzed with ideas and insights. But the real fun began when everyone was tasked with building actual bridges using popsicle sticks, super glue, toothpicks, and other supplies. As we worked together to create sturdy (or sometimes wobbly) structures, the conversations became even more animated, with everyone brainstorming creative solutions to local and regional environmental issues.
In the end, the bridges were tested by increasing amounts of weight—a perfect metaphor for how resilient connections and collaboration can withstand pressure. Just as we built physical bridges, our Idaho trip forged meaningful connections and strengthened ties between people passionate about tackling environmental challenges. Our time in Idaho truly embodied the spirit of building bridges, both in our work and our relationships.
This trip gave us a deeper understanding of the region’s strengths and challenges, and we’re eager to continue supporting these communities. Dr. Zachary Provant and Dr. Brittany Brand at HCRI are also gaining valuable insights through organizing a resilience summit in Valley County, which will help the Northwest Environmental Justice Center identify technical assistance needs across Idaho and collaborate to address them. NWEJC is committed to connecting these communities with resources and support to tackle their environmental challenges—whether it’s securing funding for monitoring water quality, assisting with grant applications, or simply lending a hand where needed.
In the coming months, we’ll be planning follow-up trips and checking in with our Idaho partners to support their ongoing projects. Our Co-Director, Serina, will also be reaching out to connect with Idaho’s Tribes to further expand our impact.