What we stand for

Curiosity helps us learn, think creatively, and be receptive to new ideas. We communicate with candor and approach science, nature, and each other with open minds. 

We live with the knowledge that humans are a part of nature, in constant exchange and reciprocity with it; we work to sustain the natural world that also sustains us.

We never stop learning from the place and from each other. We think and work as a team, knowing that everyone’s ideas matter and that we are more creative and productive together.

A relationship with the East River watershed has motivated our work for decades and taught us that big ideas about the world can come from a deep understanding of one place.

We hold each other accountable to a work ethic founded on excellence, persistence, and commitment – an approach that has ensured success over decades.

Our approach to the future interweaves optimism, inclusivity, and innovation; we believe these values are essential to redress harms of the past while growing toward a better future.