In the summer of 2002, I went on an IJNR-sponsored trip to the California/Oregon border on a program to help environmental journalists get a better grasp of water issues in the area. It was a fantastic experience that lead to a multi-dimensional understanding of the forces at work in the area. We talked with farmers, native Americans, environmentalists, loggers and policy-makers. We met many passionate and committed people, who brought the region's issues to life. We covered a lot of ground. We learned a lot. And we had a blast. I came away extremely impressed with IJNR. This is a quality organization.