Best Nature-Friendly Places to Live in the U.S. Announced June 24

New Book Offers Long-Awaited Resource for Local Governments, Planners, Nature Enthusiasts

On Friday, June 24, the nation's top nature-friendly communities will be revealed in a new book being released by Island Press. Entitled Nature-Friendly Communities, the book highlights nineteen communities that have done the most to safeguard natural landscapes and protect wildlife in the United States. 

The top nature-friendly communities are located in: Arizona, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, Montana, New York, Ohio, Oregon, Texas, Washington, Wisconsin, and Wyoming.

>> View the list of Top Communities

According to the new book, local governments are benefiting from their nature-minded actions and programs. Not only is the quality of life improving for residents but local economies are profiting as infrastructure costs go down and property values go up.  The book provides information and tools for public officials, planners, conservationists and community leaders to transform their communities into nature-friendly areas.

>> Learn more about Nature-Friendly Communities

Nature-Friendly Toolkit

Organizations Provide Resources for Conservation Planning

Defenders of Wildlife, Environmental Law Institute, Island Press, and NatureServe have developed a set of practical tools designed to incorporate conservation strategies into local planning efforts. These resources will help to inform and advance local efforts to create nature-friendly communities.

>> Learn more about the resources