Public invited to weekend of conservation, advocacy, exploration
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DAVIS -- The West Virginia Highlands Conservancy will host its annual Fall Review Oct. 23-24 at Canaan Valley Resort State Park, inviting the public to join guided hikes, learn about conservation efforts across the Highlands and take part in an advocacy training with nationally recognized author and activist Eileen Flanagan. General admission is free, and registration is now open.
This year's theme, "Finding Our Place in the Work Ahead," reflects the Conservancy's goal of helping people find ways to contribute to protecting West Virginia's mountains, waters and communities. As the region faces proposals for data centers and transmission lines, along with efforts to roll back environmental protections, the gathering will offer opportunities to learn, connect and get involved.
"There are a lot of people who care deeply about our natural heritage in West Virginia and want to help protect it, but aren't sure where to start," said Olivia Miller, interim executive director of the West Virginia Highlands Conservancy. "We want this weekend to be a welcoming place to ask questions, meet people and find ways to get involved, and spend some time enjoying the places we're working to protect."
Flanagan, a Quaker author and climate activist, brings decades of organizing experience to her interactive training, "The Four Roles of Social Change." Participants will explore how their strengths can contribute to a movement and how people with different approaches can work together effectively.
She will also deliver Saturday evening's keynote address. Her latest book, “Common Ground: How the Crisis of the Earth is Saving Us from Our Illusion of Separation,” explores the connections between people, communities and the living world.
The weekend will also feature a screening of “Dolly Sods and the Legacy of Helen McGinnis,” a documentary highlighting the conservation legacy of McGinnis, whose leadership helped secure lasting protection for Dolly Sods Wilderness Area and contributed to a broader shift in how damaged landscapes were viewed as candidates for wilderness protection.
Guided outings will give participants a chance to explore the landscapes at the heart of the Conservancy's work. Options include a Friday afternoon hike in Dolly Sods with the Dolly Sods Wilderness Stewards, a guided tour of the Abe's Run wetland, and a hike through Canaan Valley State Park.
Saturday evening will feature a reception, silent auction, fundraising dinner, Flanagan's keynote address, and celebration of the Conservancy's work. Funds raised through the event will help WVHC continue its work protecting West Virginia's mountains, waters and communities.
General admission to the Fall Review is free, and registration is now open. Sponsorships and donations are also being accepted to help cover event costs and provide scholarships for students and community members with limited funds to attend.
For questions about the Fall Review, contact Christa Clasgens at christa.clasgens@wvhighlands.org.