Over the next two years, Keystone Policy Center will lead a collaborative planning process that integrates scientific research, community engagement, and strategic visioning to shape a shared Regional Vision for People and Nature. Building on Metro DNA’s Regional Conservation Assessment and Regional Equity Assessment, this initiative will ensure that decision-making is guided by both ecological data and lived experiences. Through interviews, focus groups, surveys, and interactive workshops, diverse voices—including local land managers, Indigenous leaders, outdoor recreation groups, policymakers, and environmental justice advocates—will help shape a vision that is inclusive, actionable, and aligned with community needs.

As Metro Denver grows and changes, urbanization, climate shifts, and environmental disparities continue to impact both ecosystems and communities. Many neighborhoods lack accessible green spaces, while conservation efforts remain fragmented across jurisdictions. A unified Regional Vision will bridge these gaps, ensuring that nature remains protected, conservation and recreation planning reflect community priorities, and climate adaptation strategies incorporate natural solutions. By fostering collaboration and shared action, Metro DNA and its partners can create a more sustainable, resilient, and inclusive future where both people and nature thrive.