Alliance for the Shenandoah Valley works to ensure the Valley’s rural character, scenic beauty, clean water and vibrant communities are protected by providing accurate and timely information to community members and decision makers. We believe that, together, we can preserve what is important to community members and grow in ways that are sensitive to the extraordinary natural and cultural resources that distinguish our region.
Our Mission and Vision
*Revised December 8, 2022
VISION
A Shenandoah Valley sustained by farms and forests, clean streams and rivers, and thriving communities.
MISSION
Alliance for the Shenandoah Valley informs and engages people to protect the natural resources, cultural heritages, and rural character of our region.
Our Values
*Adopted December 8, 2022
ROOTS
The Shenandoah Valley is our home. We live in its diverse and vibrant communities, and we are unwavering in our protection of its healthy farms and forests, clean water, and beautiful landscapes.
LISTEN
We create and nurture lasting relationships in communities affected by our work. We listen intently and respectfully so that our efforts are grounded and deeply informed.
COLLABORATE
We can’t do this work alone nor would we want to. We bring together expected and unexpected partners to further our work and theirs.
IMPACT
When faced with opportunities or threats, we are inquisitive, nimble and resourceful, and we take action equipped with facts and local knowledge so that our effect is true and lasting.
GRATITUDE
We love what we do and are grateful we can do this work alongside our neighbors, inclusive of backgrounds, experiences, beliefs and cultures.
Strategic Goals 2027
Revised December 8, 2022
Inspire active and informed communities
- Promote appreciation for the Valley’s extraordinary natural and cultural resources.
- Provide resources and leadership to mobilize community members on key issues of importance.
- Develop and maintain productive relationships across the Valley’s diverse communities.
Promote conservation-oriented land use and transportation policies
- Encourage policies and practices that protect farm and forest lands, water resources, historic sites, and neighboring communities.
- Work collaboratively with governments and communities to guide growth in and around towns and cities.
- Serve as a technical resource on complex land use policies such as renewable energy.
- Advocate for transportation plans that address safety, respect surrounding natural and cultural resources, and improve accessibility for all modes of transportation.
Foster land and water conservation
- Build partnerships that protect land and restore clean water.
- Maximize use of public and private funding to maintain and restore soil and water quality.
- Advocate for sufficient and stable public funding for conservation programs.
Support compatible economic development
- Advance tourism initiatives that capitalize on the Valley’s natural and cultural resources including outdoor recreation, agritourism, and historic tourism.
- Support both new and established Valley farming operations, including historically underserved and small-scale producers.
- Explore innovative approaches to encourage agricultural vitality.