The Nature Record was designed as a first-of-its-kind assessment of the state of nature across the United States. Although the federal effort was halted, the authors continued the work independently to understand how nature is changing, why it matters, and what it means for decisions ahead.

Join this ELPC Thinks webinar with The Nature Record Director Phillip Levin, Ph.D., for a conversation that explores what the assessment reveals about rivers, wetlands, wildlife, and ecosystems nationwide, while highlighting examples from the Midwest. We’ll discuss key findings on ecosystem change and water-related challenges, alongside real “bright spots” where restoration, stewardship, and policy are making a difference.

We’ll also talk about why independent, evidence-based assessments like The Nature Record matter for decision-making, how this effort came together, and how people across the country can engage during the open public comment period ahead of the final publication in fall 2026.