II. Building Relationships
Resources and Tools
Many resources are available to help partners build and nurture positive relationships. All of the resources below may be accessed through the Partnership Resource Center website, a joint website of the Forest Service and the National Forest Foundation. The online Center provides information and resources to help employees and partners work together in partnership and collaboration.
• The Community Tool Box, developed by the National Park Service's Rivers, Trails, and Conservation Assistance Program, offers practical guidance for facilitating positive group interactions through techniques such as consensus-building, goal- and vision-setting, active listening, and dialogue.
• Learning from Experience, developed by the University of Michigan 's Ecosystem Management Initiative, offers informative case studies on natural resource collaboration and partnerships. The “Lessons Learned” section provides guidance on issues such as organizing the process, managing scientific complexity, accommodating diverse capabilities of participants, and evaluating progress.
• The Partnership Resource Center Forum provides an online discussion center to help people engaged in partnership work connect with others to ask questions, share information, and network.
• The U.S. Institute for Environmental Conflict Resolution assists parties in resolving environmental conflicts around the country that involve federal agencies or interests.
• The Red Lodge Clearinghouse provides extensive information and guidance for collaborative groups seeking to resolve resource conflicts throughout the western United States . The website also tells the stories of many collaborative efforts.
