The GNAR Initiative exists to help gateway communities, their regions, and the public lands around them, thrive and preserve the things that make them special – across Utah, and the Intermountain West. Our goal is to help community leaders and land managers prepare and respond to the numerous challenges facing them by leveraging our three pillars: research, education, and capacity building.
Program Information
- What is the GNAR Initiative (YouTube)
- Institute of Outdoor Recreation & Tourism (YouTube)
- How to Shred GNARly Problems (YouTube)
- Planning for a GNARly Future (YouTube)
- Red Emerald Resilience Training Series (YouTube)
- Statewide (online)
- Jake Powell, Extension Specialist
- Jordan Smith, IORT Director
- Elizabeth Sodja, Program Coordinator
Trophy icon Award icon AWARDS Trophy icon Award icon
2025
APA Utah Beehive Award of Excellence, Short-Term Rentals Course
from the Utah American Planning Association
National Innovation and Creativity Award, GNAR Initiative
from the National Association of Community Development Extension Professionals
If you have updates to this page, please contact Kristin Hoch at kristin.hoch@usu.edu.