Environmental Law
Where the Landscape and the Law Coexist
October 2024
By Miles Hogan
Chair, Environmental Law Section
Yosemite. It is a rare and special place. Granite mountains, wildflower-sprinkled meadows, stands of giant sequoias, and the world-famous Half Dome intertwine to create one of the most magnificent places on earth.
This September marked the 33rd Anniversary of CLA’s Annual Environmental Law Conference, and I am sincere when I say it is a privilege for the Environmental Law Section to host this event. More than 650 lawyers attended our conference, which like Yosemite, is nationally distinguished for its uniqueness. We were also excited to present the 2024 Lifetime Achievement Award to Antonette (Toni) Cordero and the inaugural Trailblazer Award to Leadership Counsel for Justice and Accountability recognizing their impactful legal work to improve the lives of Californians and the environment.
Our goal for this gathering each year is to be innovative in exploring the most recent evolutions in environmental law, understanding current and emerging initiatives and actions, and mindfully considering emerging trends. With more than five dozen speakers, authors, panelists, and guest presenters, our team works carefully to bring about meaningful dialogue. There is something special about sitting around a campfire making s’mores over an open flame alongside law school students and first-time meeting attendees. Or, taking an evening hike under the stars. Participants enjoy each other’s company and the chance to relax in an outdoor setting throughout the weekend, but we also listen attentively to each other and learn from each other by inviting open conversation about our profession, successes, and challenges.
The speakers were inspiring and an important reminder that just as the ecosystem is constantly evolving, so are we as attorneys. Leaders from such key organizations as the People’s Collective for Environmental Justice, the Natural Resources Defense Council, and the Sierra Nevada Conservancy share their perspectives, while attorneys, managers, and executives from the US Environmental Protection Agency, California State Water Resources Board, California State Lands Commission, California Public Utilities Commission, and others discuss regulations, technology, and governmental priorities.
I am grateful to the Environmental Law Section Executive Team and our members for your tireless efforts again this year. I also wish to thank our sponsors, CLA leadership, our presenters, and most importantly our attendees, for ensuring the Environmental Law Conference is a rewarding opportunity.