The Future of Wilderness in a Time of Change April 4, 2008

The Future of Wilderness in a Time of Change

April 4–5, 2008 (Friday and Saturday)

Conference program -- register online

April 3 (Thursday Evening)

FREE Pre-Conference Keynote Presentation
*** Public welcomed*** -- registration required

The 2008 Wilderness Conference will celebrate the 44th year of the National Wilderness Preservation System and the 24th year of the Washington and Oregon Wilderness Acts.
Purpose of the Conference

How do we preserve wilderness for future generations in a world where environmental and social change is occurring more rapidly than ever? The effects of climate change are already being felt in many ecosystems, with serious implications for the wilderness areas we are trying to protect. Social changes, including population growth, altering economic opportunities in rural communities, and increasing disputes between wilderness recreational users threatens current and future designated wilderness. Focusing on western North America, Wilderness Conference 2008 looks at the values of wilderness and the most effective tools for conservationists in a time of dramatic changes in our natural and social environments. Conservationists need to understand how to respond effectively to protect wilderness for the long term. The Wilderness Conference 2008 in Seattle builds public awareness and citizen support for significant advances in wilderness preservation.
Conference sessions include topics such as climate change, introducing youth to wilderness, working in coalitions and more. Influential and diverse community leaders will be lending their thoughts and ideas on a number of topics related to Wilderness throughout the Conference. The Conference will also provide opportunities for participants to share strategies and ideas, learn from experts in the field and each other, and network with those who walk the halls of Congress working for wilderness preservation.

Official Website: http://www.speakeasy.org/~nwwpc/