Diversity is a key component of resilience and reduces community dependence upon any one business, agency, or element of the natural environment. There is sufficient diversity in the local economy to help it weather downturns in individual businesses or economic sectors. Organizations within the community have the capacity to help the community define and advance its economic, social, and environmental goals. Capacity includes effective leadership, broadened community involvement, and access to information and financial resources. Stewardship means managing natural resources and ecosystems to maintain their long term productivity and conserve the biological diversity they support.
Stewardship also means using natural resources efficiently.
There are opportunities for dialogue between citizens and owners or managers of natural resource lands whose management has significant ecological, economic, and social consequences for the community. Communities that work together are often able to share resources, allowing them to be more effective in advancing toward social, economic, and ecological sustainability. The community has built positive working relationships with outside agencies and organizations that allow it to gain access to assistance, including information, technology, and financial help. Local businesses are aware and take advantage of markets beyond the community for marketing, technical assistance, and financing. Social, economic, and political burdens and benefits are equitably distributed among all members of the community.