What We Do
MCL brings environmental expertise to the decisions shaping Marin’s future.
Since 1934, MCL has served as an independent voice for Marin’s environment. We review government plans, development proposals, legislation, and public policies that could have countywide or long-term consequences. We study the evidence, identify environmental risks and opportunities, and advocate for practical, science-based solutions.
Marin Conservation League works to ensure that decisions about land, water, transportation, climate, wildlife, and public open space protect the natural systems and communities that make Marin unique.
How our advocacy works
Many decisions affecting Marin’s environment are made through complex public processes that can unfold over months or years. MCL brings sustained attention, local knowledge, and environmental expertise to those decisions.
Our staff, volunteers, and issue committees:
- Monitor emerging environmental issues and public proposals
- Research the potential effects on Marin’s lands, waters, wildlife, climate, and communities
- Consult scientific research, technical experts, public agencies, and community partners
- Develop policy recommendations and positions for consideration by MCL’s Board of Directors
- Communicate with elected officials, agency staff, organizations, and the public
- Participate in public meetings and advocate for better environmental outcomes
- Continue monitoring decisions to help ensure that commitments are carried out
This combination of research, public participation, and long-term follow-through allows MCL to act as both a watchdog and a constructive partner.
MCL’s areas of focus
- Protecting parks, open spaces, watersheds, habitats, and biodiversity
- Promoting responsible land-use and transportation decisions
- Protecting water resources and preparing for sea-level rise
- Advancing climate solutions and community resilience
- Reducing wildfire risk while protecting native habitats
- Supporting policies that connect healthy natural systems with equity and quality of life
Our Environmental Goals guide the positions we take. Our Issue Committees provide the research, discussion, and sustained attention behind much of this work.
Why MCL’s role matters
Marin’s environmental protections did not happen by accident. They are the result of generations of people who studied difficult issues, participated in public decisions, and spoke up for places and resources that might otherwise have been lost.
Today’s challenges are different, but that work remains essential. MCL helps make sure environmental consequences are understood before important decisions are made—and that the public has an informed, persistent voice in shaping Marin’s future.
Join Us
Protecting Marin requires an engaged community. You can attend an event, participate in an issue committee, volunteer your skills, become a member or donate.