CincinnatiNature Center supports “conservation civic” as a form of social action where people with different interests and perspectives connect with each other to solve and prevent environmental problems. It’s a relationship-based approach that has the added benefit of creating a sense of belonging and purpose at a time when our society faces a loneliness epidemic. It’s a win for people, communities, and the environment.

“No one cares how much you know until they know how much you care.” - Theodore Roosevelt

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Why Does it Matter?

Nature improves the quality of life in our communities and country, and non-partisan support is needed to protect it. Our Nature Center believes that it’s possible to support a thriving economy and a healthy environment, but only if we all work together. Through “conservation civics,” all of us can work to understand and work within the social, political, and economic structures of our communities to protect local natural resources. We can all help build bridges in divided times, healing both our environment and our communities. To protect nature, we must connect better with one another!

“Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world.” - Margaret Mead

This webpage provides a compilation of resources to help you connect, not just with like-minded nature enthusiasts, but with local decision makers, neighbors, businesses, and community institutions. You’ll find resources to help strengthen and broaden your social networks, adopt an attitude of intellectual humility, and use your words carefully to build bridges for conservation.

Cincinnati Nature Center’s Conservation Civics efforts are here to guide and support our constituents to practice conscientious living, civil discourse, civic engagement, and collective action with a goal of turning nature enthusiasts into positive and connected problem solvers within their social circles and communities.

What role will YOU play?

Everyone can help protect our country’s water, air, soil, food, and natural areas. Through the ripple effect, we envision nature enthusiasts reaching out to form new relationships, engage in civil discourse and build social capital with others to help build bi-partisan support for a clean, safe, and beautiful future.

The Nature Center offers programs and services that train, connect, and support people in their efforts to have greater impact on conservation:

The Ripple Effect Course

In-Person Course • Wednesdays, April 22, April 29, May 6, May 13, May 20, 2026, 4–6 pm at Rowe Woods

‍A blended learning experience introducing a simple approach to addressing environmental issues through the lens of human behavior and emphasizing the power of relationships.

Click here to register!

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Greater Good Reunion and Salon

Tuesday, June 16, 2026, 6:30–8 pm at Rowe Woods

Tickets and details to be announced!

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Getting Things Done: Civics for Conservation

In-person and Online • Wednesdays September 23, 30, Oct 7, 14, and 21, 2026

Tickets and details to be announced!

‍The Ripple newsletter is a monthly electronic compilation of thought-provoking articles, podcasts, websites, videos, and invitations to inspire action and advocacy.

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