Partners for change: protecting our natural environment from the grassroots to the courtroom.

CLF has a history of partnering with community groups and environmental organizations to tackle the complex environmental challenges facing New England, Our partnerships with those directly affected by environmental threats make CLF's cases stronger and more effective as we work together to achieve our joint vision of vibrant communities supported by a thriving, healthy environment; In this issue we take a moment to recognize some of our valued partners.

MAINE AREA MANAGEMENT COALITION

For more than 30 years, CLF's victories in court and on Capitol Hill have helped restore and protect the region's critical groundfish populations, including the signature species to the region--the Atlantic cod. Now, as our advocates seek to overhaul New England's failed fisheries management system with an approach that will ensure sustainable fish populations, successful fishing communities, and supplies of healthy fish for consumers, CLF has formed an important partnership with the local fishermen that share our vision for the future.

The Area Management Coalition is a group of fishermen, CLF, other conservation organizations, and scientists who seek more rigorous management of the struggling and depleted Gulf of Maine fisheries. Restoring these fish populations is critical to conserving and protecting New England's ocean legacy. If successful, this new approach will bring area-specific management tools that will protect local fish stocks and increase accountability for species protection. It will also increase economic opportunities and stewardship by fishermen through encouraging their greater participation in setting area-specific fishing rules.

FAIRMONT/INDIGO LINE COALITION

The Fairmount/Indigo Line Coalition, an alliance of community development corporations, environmental organizations and community groups, has long called for transformation of the under-utilized Fairmount commuter rail line to provide better service for inner-city Boston residents. The coalition has advocated for a series of convenient stations with frequent and affordable service providing a direct trip to downtown Boston from the neighborhoods of Roxbury, Dorchester, Mattapan and Hyde Park.

In January 2007, the Coalition celebrated its first victory with the opening of the Uphams Corner station in Dorchester. Previously, commuters had to flag down the oncoming train in order to get a ride downtown from this station. Now, with a refurbished platform, residents of these...