We Defend the West

We use the power of the law to foster thriving, resilient western U.S. lands, waters, wildlife, and communities in the face of a changing climate.

About Us

The Western Environmental Law Center uses the power of the law to foster thriving, resilient western U.S. lands, waters, wildlife, and communities in the face of a changing climate. We envision a thriving, resilient western U.S., abundant with protected public lands and wildlife, powered by clean energy, and defended by communities rooted in an ethic of conservation. WELC works close to the ground, with offices in Oregon, Washington, Montana, Colorado, and New Mexico. As a public interest law firm, WELC does not charge clients and partners for services, but relies instead on charitable gifts from individuals, families, and foundations to accomplish our mission. WELC integrates national policies and regional perspective with the local knowledge of our 185+ partner groups to implement smart and appropriate place-based solutions.

View a booklet about WELC.

View our brochure.

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Our Mission

We use the power of the law to safeguard the public lands, wildlife, and communities of the western U.S. in the face of a changing climate.

Board

WELC is governed by a Board of Directors comprised of renowned attorneys, academics, and conservationists from across the country.

Meet the board »

Staff

WELC has offices throughout the western U.S. Meet the people who, with the support of donors, do the day-to-day work of protecting the western U.S.

Meet our staff »

20 Years Defending the West

Banner photo by BLM.
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