Mission & Purpose

Why a National Network?

First, because no one has the corner on good ideas! Community leaders need as many effective and innovative approaches as possible as they struggle to balance economic growth with natural resource protection and preservation of community character. Natural resource based planning is one of the best approaches to making that balance.

Second, because the few groups working in the arena of land use education need the assistance and support of their colleagues. Land use is largely a local issue, so federal and state agencies have few programs that directly address, let alone fund, land use or the education of local officials. In order to create effective educational programs, NEMO educators need access to the resources and expertise of their colleagues around the country.

In short, the National NEMO Network allows for the transfer of innovation and information so that it can benefit the people who will actually make the difference—land use decision makers.

Mission Statement

The mission of the National NEMO Network is to help communities better protect natural resources while accommodating growth. This assistance will be rendered through non-regulatory, research-based educational outreach programs that emphasize natural resource-based land use planning and better site design. Network members believe that outreach education is an appropriate, flexible, effective and cost-effective method for catalyzing change to local land use policies and practices. In fulfilling this mission, the Network will also further the missions of a great many agencies and organizations charged with protecting natural resources, preserving community character, promoting sustainable economic growth, reducing sprawl or making remote sensing technology useable by common citizens.

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The National NEMO Network is a program of the Center for Land Use Education and Research (CLEAR).
Land, Sea and Space Grant collaborating.