BY HALEY POTTER
The success of an unlikely
partnership found in The Ruby
Valley Strategic Alliance
LES GILMAN
management style between ranchers
and conservationists.
The alliance consists of 14 seats at
a “table” of members who represent
different interests including ranchers,
grazing associations, land alliances,
and conservation groups. Each member
has relationships with
different agencies, thus
different concerns they
bring forward. Les Gilman,
fifth-generation rancher
alliance between the groups to work
together on issues facing the Ruby
Valley. He fondly remembers Gary telling
him “Give it a try, you can sell my
Ocean Front Property if this works!”
The Ruby Valley Strategic Alliance
was formed with Rick Sandru’s
vision. It started with discussions on
wilderness character, land management,
and endangered species. The
main issue they faced during the first
meetings was the vast difference in
and Executive Director of the Ruby
Habitat Foundation, described that
his personal stakes as a rancher can
mesh with the view of his group,
making him more engaged in conversations.
“There is a growing interest
in the outdoors and natural resource
issues, but not a full appreciation
of the complexities
of that. Ag needs allies in
promoting what we do,
what we provide, and the
Crossing a stream in the
Snowcrest Mountains.
Lined Out.
JUNE / JULY 2021 I WORKING RANCH I 87