After months of smoke and public land closures, fire’s power to affect recreation and local economics became obvious. While a natural and key part of our ecosystem, recent fires also illustrated their ability to reduce tourism, threaten homes, and limit recreation in prized public lands. Now is a critical time to nurture conversations about how we can build a future more resilient to fire.

“Recreation and Resilience” will highlight innovative options for supporting conservation through recreation, promote local engagement in forest and watershed health, and connect community members with diverse resources. For this evening event, a packed agenda will build upon the PBS series, “America’s Forests” to promote local dialogue about the critical role recreationists play in the health and resilience of local forests and watersheds.

Event Itinerary (TENTATIVE)
1:30 – 3:30: Building a Resilient Community, Fort Lewis College Vallecito Room (RSVP) This meeting will bring together local leaders across industries to discuss the impacts of recent fires and begin brainstorming how we can create systems more resilient to disturbance, including fire. Guests including Luis Benitez and Bruce Ward will speak briefly to options and frameworks for building that community resilience, specifically related to recreation.

5:00 – 5:30: Community Partner Showcase & Resource Fair, Powerhouse Science Center Patio
• Tables highlighting resources of local organizations, companies, and partnerships
• Silent auction to benefit the Community Emergency Relief Fund
• Food truck dinner by Bloom, free appetizers, and lawn games will be available

5:30 – 6:15: Film Screening and Keynote Speakers, Powerhouse Science Center Ballroom
• Welcome and Introductions, Bruce Ward, Choose Outdoors
• Screening of the PBS Series: America's Forests with Chuck Leavell, Colorado Episode
• Luis Benitez, CO Outdoor Recreation Industry Office
• Emily Olsen, National Forest Foundation

7:00 – 8:30 Fireside Chat and Community Questions, Powerhouse Science Center Ballroom
• The panelist will be encouraged to talk freely about the complex and interrelated issues presented in the film or in their career experiences.