97th ESA Annual Meeting (August 5 -- 10, 2012)

WK 5 - Collaboration for Ecosystem Preservation: Ecologists and Faith Communities Discovering Common Ground for Sustaining Life On Earth

Saturday, August 4, 2012: 12:00 PM-5:00 PM
M.L. King Jr. Lobby, Oregon Convention Center
Organizer:
Leanne Jablonski
Co-organizers:
Jenny Holmes and Gregory E. Hitzhusen
Scientists and faith communities are increasingly collaborating to ensure the care and preservation of ecosystems, thus empowering a more sustainable culture of ecological care, as ecologists increase our understanding of natural systems, and faith communities deepen commitments to addressing ecological concerns. Dialogue, conversation, and mutual exchange remain important tasks to establish fruitful partnerships between ecologists and faith communities. Perhaps no region in America better exemplifies the creative possibilities for new synergy among communities than the Portland area, and this workshop brings together faith and ecology leaders to share some of the most innovative project successes in North America. This workshop/fieldtrip features the environmental work and insights of Ecumenical Ministries of Oregon (emo), highlighting ecosystem projects transferable elsewhere. Panelists of faith leaders and ecologists engaged with religious organizations will share best practises, resources and opportunities. Participants will discover principles that can help people’s faith be more effective in addressing ecological concerns, how to deepen rapport between religious members and ecological scientists for mutual enrichment and how ecologists can assist congregation environmental care. Hosted by EMO in partnership with ESA Environmental Justice section members, this workshop builds on ESA 2011 meeting dialogue with religious organizations. We’ll experience the beautiful Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area at the urban growth boundary 30 mins from citycenter (www.menucha.org), and enjoy a sumptuous locally grown meal with a blessing by Portland Tuv Ha’Aretz, a group that connects Jewish teachings and traditions with sustainable food and agricultural practices. http://portlandtuv.org/index.php/about/

Registration Fee: $40

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