In late June, I joined fellow law and graduate students from the Wyss Scholars Program for an inspiring retreat in Washington State. This event let us share our summer experiences and discuss our goals in environmental law and land conservation at a crucial time for our planet.
Thanks to the Wyss Scholars from Yale, we stayed in a beautiful house by a small lake near Seattle. I arrived after dark but woke up early the next day, eager to explore the nearby public lands. It was my first visit to the Pacific Northwest! I had mapped out a running trail, and stepping into the lush forests felt like entering another world. Massive slugs dotted the trails and birds filled the mossy branches overhead. The cool weather was a refreshing change from my usual summer adventures in Boulder.
Over the next two days, we enjoyed day trips to Seattle, swimming in the lake, and hiking together. On Saturday afternoon, the clouds cleared to reveal Mount Rainier in the distance—an unforgettable sight. We paused during our hikes to discuss pressing issues like recent congressional attacks on public lands and the impacts of climate change. It was eye-opening to hear everyone’s thoughts and experiences.
According to a recent report from the Pew Research Center, a growing number of Americans prioritize protecting public lands. In fact, 56% of those surveyed believe conserving nature should be a national priority. This growing awareness gives hope to those of us who care about land conservation.
I’m grateful to the Wyss Foundation and my Yale peers for organizing this retreat. The breathtaking scenery and shared enthusiasm for protecting the environment were invaluable. I left Washington feeling inspired by my fellow Scholars and optimistic about the future of land conservation in the U.S.
The work we do today is shaping the landscapes of tomorrow. As we face more challenges from climate change and political pressures, the passion and collaboration among young leaders will be crucial in making a lasting impact.
