Managing Conflict

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Conflict within and between organizations can lead to unhealthy relationships, counter- productive tactics and inefficient use of resources. Osprey's interventions assist in improving understanding, enhancing communications, forging alliances directed toward common goals, and establishing mechanisms to ensure that future conflict is minimized and handled appropriately when it arises. Interestingly, some of the most entrenched and visceral conflict is frequently among or between those who ostensibly have a great deal in common.

Wilderness and Mountain Biking:

Osprey mediated an ongoing dispute between the major nonprofit organizations involved in advocacy for wilderness expansion and mountain bike access. Despite a history of acrimony and hard feelings among the participants, this mediation, funded by REI and Patagonia, Inc., led to a concrete signed agreement on how the two communities plan to work more productively together in the future and ongoing conference call communications.

Sierra Club-International Mountain Bike Association Policy Mediation:

John Huyler was the sole mediator for national effort that resolved policy differences over mountain bike usage on public lands. Outcomes included formal revision of national Sierra Club policy and an ongoing conflict resolution process involving both organizations to resolve site specific conflicts wherever they may occur.

Mediation with County Commissioners:

Osprey worked with three County Commissioners, in one of the nation's fastest growing counties, to help them identify common interests and break down barriers that were impeding their effectiveness.

Internal organizational conflict:

Osprey mediated a value-laden dispute for a local governmental health organization and two of its partner organizations. Much of the dispute came from emerging policy priorities and their resultant impact on budgetary choices. These decisions led to misunderstanding and mistrust within a group of colleagues who had previously worked well together.

Catawba Land Claim Settlement:

As Public Participation and Negotiation Specialist, John Huyler devised and implemented the multi-party negotiation structure and provided ongoing advice regarding land settlement negotiations for the Catawba Nation in South Carolina. This land claim originated under King George III prior to the American Revolution. It was successfully settled and signed into law by President Clinton, Governor Campbell and the Tribe.