The philosophies upon which ACES was founded continue to inspire our daily work. We aim:

• To
  acquire an intimate knowledge of the language of place — that is, to
  have ecological literacy so the surrounding landscape is perceived as a
  living, breathing, familiar presence. Knowledge is our goal, in part.
• To
  care by making emotional connections through a wealth of experience in
  nature and by rationally grasping the importance of diversity and
  stability of ecosystems to environmental and human health. Caring is an
  essential element of ACES work.
• To develop and share the
  skills needed to be actively involved in the careful stewardship of our
  local environment, accomplishing this through hands-on work to protect
  and restore the balance of ecosystems with which ACES is entrusted.
  Through knowledge and caring comes meaningful action.

ACES believes these three philosophies inspire a life-long commitment to sustaining a healthy environment.