In the Summer of 2010 Nick Deyo worked for Rural Initiatives, a department of the Missoula County government which is located in Western Montana.  Like other fast growing western counties, Missoula Countyí¢â‚¬â„¢s rural landscapes are being altered by continued pressure to convert natural resource rich lands to residential development.  Rural Initiatives mission is to maintain rural landscapes and lifestyles by providing planning and growth management assistance, encouraging public participation in local government, and developing conservation programs specific to rural areas.  Specifically, Nick helped to create an atlas of conservation resources within the county, the maps within this atlas will be used to make the subdivision review process more consistent and accountable and also to help guide the Countyí¢â‚¬â„¢s purchase of development rights on private lands.  In addition to designing materials for the Countyí¢â‚¬â„¢s conservation resource atlas, Nick helped solicit and respond to public feedback concerning Missoula Countyí¢â‚¬â„¢s conservation mapping initiative.  He helped coordinate and run a series of public meetings held throughout Missoula County, compiled public feedback, and wrote responses.  Nick also initiated the creation of an online mapping application that will allow residents to view conservation resources in the County and conducted research concerning voluntary mechanisms for the protection of riparian habitat on private lands.  This summer experience deepened his understanding of local governments and the role they play in conservation, particularly in the Intermountain West. 

Internship Details