The Urban Conservancy

The Urban Conservancy (UC) is a New Orleans-based nonprofit organization leading and collaborating to strengthen our urban environment and local economy through equitable practices, policies and programs. We serve as a catalyst for residents of all ages who want to take an active role in helping the city address climate vulnerability by providing them with the resources to affect meaningful change.

Since 2001, the Urban Conservancy has promoted sustainable solutions to New Orleans' distinct land use needs through K-12 and neighborhood-level engagement. We create, educate, and advocate in partnership with the community so that together we can take informed action that moves us closer to sustainability.

Since 2003, StayLocal, an independent business alliance, has supported our local entrepreneurs in their efforts to foster a sustainable and inclusive circular economy; Building Active Stewardship in New Orleans (BASIN), an experiential learning curriculum, has involved children as young as eight in the conversation about New Orleans' environmental future since 2013, and the Front Yard Initiative (FYI), an incentive and technical assistance program, enables homeowners to replace paving with greater permeability and biodiversity.

Testimonials

"Throughout the process I've been advocating for the Front Yard Initiative with friends and neighbors - and shall continue to do so. Indeed, folks are intrigued and interested - they stop and want to talk about it. I hope that some of that turns into action. As for my enthusiasm, it's off the charts. Over the years, I've continuously made efforts to harmonize with the environment. I've planted many species of water retaining trees, and made and installed dozens of native bee habitats."