This episode explores how large-scale ecological restoration can drive resilience and economic opportunity, using California’s Redwoods Rising project as a case study. Learn how environmental conservation can simultaneously heal landscapes and create jobs in rural communities.  

Hosted by Emily Hobbs of the BMO Climate Institute, the conversation features Shelana deSilva (California State Parks), Sally Bolger (Ecological Workforce Initiative), and Alma Cortes Selva (BMO Climate Institute). They focus on the Redwoods Rising initiative, including its forest and watershed restoration work, cross-sector partnerships, and new research showing how investment in nature-based solutions can strengthen local economies, support workforce development, and deliver lasting environmental and social benefits. 

The full research report referenced in this episode and additional resources are available at parkscalifornia.org, a partner in this work connecting communities and cultivating new career pathways across California's public lands:

Visit Redwoods Rising to learn more about the initiative discussed in this podcast:   

https://www.savetheredwoods.org/project/redwoods-rising/

Visit BMO for more thought leadership from Emily Hobbs:

https://capitalmarkets.bmo.com/en/our-bankers/emily-hobbs/