Equitable Outreach and Engagement

The Department of Conservation highly values the involvement and engagement of all Californians.

We recognize how programs can create and/or perpetuate existing environmental injustices and inequities. In this environment, DOC supports an educated, aware and engaged public, and promotes understanding of its work in the fields of watershed, carbon, and hazard management. We continually strive to improve public participation practices that align with our engagement principles.

One key aspect of our work is focused on external-facing efforts relating to the engagement of Californians through the lens of racial equity. That's why the Department has a Racial Equity Community Engagement Plan (RECEP). RECEP is an action plan developed in coordination with, and complementary to, DOC's internal Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Action (DEI-A) Plan led by the Department's Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) office. In 2018, the Department deepened its commitment to outreach and engagement with the creation of an outreach and engagement position in its executive office.

PUBLIC ENGAGEMENT PRINCIPLES

Planning and Preparation

Effective meetings result from clear goals, thoughtful design, and organization.

Inclusion and Diversity

All voices, ideas, and information, regardless of background, will be considered when designing paths to desired outcomes.

Openness and Learning

We encourage individuals to listen to one another when exploring new ideas and topics.

Engagement and Participation

We aim to promote a culture of transparency, participation, and support.

(Adapted from principles supported or seen from: National Coalition for Dialogue and Deliberation [NCDD], International Association for Public Participation [IAP2], and the Institute for Local Government [ILG].)

RACIAL EQUITY COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT PLAN (RECEP)

RESOURCES

Check out the RUBIN Race and Equity Engagement model here.

Explore public engagement best practices further with the following resources.

If you are interested in learning more about public engagement, considering connecting with a local IAP2 Chapter

International Association of Public Participation (IAP2) Resource page

For more information

Please contact DOC's Outreach and Engagement Advisor, Sarah Rubin.

Equitable Outreach and Engagement

Planning and Preparation

Inclusion and Diversity

Openness and Learning

Engagement and Participation

The Department finalized its RECEP in Spring 2022. The effort has six goals and 16 objectives.

DOC Racial Equity Community Engagement Plan Goals and Objectives 2025 (PDF)

For more information

Equitable Outreach and Engagement

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For more information