I'll be frank. Polarization in rural communities is a major obstacle to implementing Wildlands Network Visions. Implementing our vision in rural North America depends on our capacity to create real partnerships with those who mistrust us.

Many rural conservatives believe that we are wacko environmentalists, effete tree huggers, green carpet baggers, liberal atheists, etc. We sometimes refer to them in equally unkind terms: rednecks, motor-heads, and bible thumpers. Unless we do something about this polarization, our struggle to achieve rewilding will be Sisyphean (that is, like rolling a huge bolder uphill, only to have it roll back down again). We must overcome prejudices and shed the image of isolated extremists.

There is more common ground than we might believe. A lot of us conservationists have guns, like country music, secretly sneak into Wal-Mart to get cheap underwear, and enjoy fast food. And a lot of rural conservatives are well-educated, caring people. Maybe the deteriorating state of the world presents a window of opportunity for rural reconciliation.

How do we go about building bridges of trust in rural communities, and how do we reach out with genuine concern to address people's heartfelt aspirations and genuine needs? We have to take the first steps. I can hear your the groans, but I'm serious. Otherwise, how can we achieve ecologically sustainable activities in connectivity zones and in all those "compatible use" yellow-green blotches on the maps in our vision plans? How can we make these semi-wild, mixed-use areas safe for wolves and bears when we have so little credibility with local folks, politicians, and leaders?

One approach is to initiate a Sustainable Economies Campaign that encourages rural entrepreneurs to develop green enterprises that create jobs in Compatible Use Areas. The idea is to help communities incubate green enterprises that benefit both the human and the natural communities, increasing human/social capital as well as the natural capitals of biodiversity and wildness. Intellectually, we are already committed to extractive enterprises in compatible use zones. So why not participate whole-heartedly rather than reluctantly? Let's be smart about the kinds of economic activities that develop. The good news is that there are a lot of potential partners and funders who have already embraced the ideas of sustainable growth in rural areas.

Michael Soulé, Member of the Board
Hotchkiss, Colorado