With a background in conservation planning, land acquisition and stewardship, and building collaborative public-private partnerships, Brian Rushing focuses much of his work at The University of Alabama Center for Economic Development on facilitating outdoor recreation planning and development initiatives with local governments, state and federal agencies, and private organizations, providing both project leadership and technical assistance. Through these efforts, Brian is helping Alabama communities take better advantage of the growing recreation and nature-based tourism markets while improving quality of life for residents and enhancing protection of important natural resources.