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The sagebrush (Artemisia spp.)�landscape�has been referred to as one of the most imperiled ecosystems on Earth.�Concomitantly, the�greater sage-grouse (Centrocercus urophasianus) has become the keystone species at the center of�efforts to conserve the sagebrush ecosystem.�The conservation of the sage-grouse in�becoming a rallying cry for sagebrush conservation has also exacerbated concerns of the local communities that there are�those who are trying to create a new vision of the west � a vision that has no place for�them.�This controversy�has been referred to by the mass media as the "new war for the west."�War is inherently violent.� It is�typically characterized by direct and calculated actions which are designed to�destroy the enemy and their capability to make war.�However, as the war�for the west has escalated,�the knowledge and values of local communities are being increasingly sought and acknowledged by federal and state agencies and non-governmental organizations.�New relationships have merged out of the rhetoric of this war. The success of these relationships has been linked to reciprocity and transparency in information exchange, common goals, enhanced understanding of rules of law and social processes, and shared scientific discovery which collectively created a foundation for mutual trust. This social engagement processes, often referred to a local working groups, are enhancing the connectedness of communities to government and shaping individual and group action leading to increased ownership and positive outcomes. Through these processes innovation, new ideas, and risk taking are encouraged. However, even given innovative successes, there remain practical and policy challenges and unresolved questions regarding how governments view and responds to communities empowered to make their own decisions.