RESOURCE MANAGEMENT: A Stronger Argument for Nature Itself

In this workshop, we will explore the mental health benefits of nature contact, barriers that are preventing those who would benefit the most from accessing our natural spaces, and the ways resource managers can make users feel safe and welcome.

Schedule: 

9-9:50 am: Panel Discussion

9:50-10:00: Break

10-10:28: Breakout/World Cafe Round 1

10:30-11:00: Breakout/World Cafe Round 2

11:00-11:05: Transition Time

11:05-11:55: Roundup / Next Steps (plenary)

11:55 am – 12 pm: Thank You / Adjourn

To begin the workshop, a panel discussion will explore the importance of safety in the planning and management of natural spaces.

Moderator: Matthew Hughes, PhD,  Engagement Manager, Texas Conservation Federation (2020 Emerging Leader)

Panelists:

• Chantel Jimenez, Project Coordinator, The SoCal Urban Wildlife Refuge Project (2020 SHIFT Award winner)
• Michelle Kondo, PhD, Scientist, USDA-Forest Service, Philadelphia Field Station
• Allen Gallant, Chief of Community Development, Metroparks Toledo (2020 SHIFT Award winner)
• David Buggs, Chief Diversity and Inclusion Officer, Texas Parks and Wildlife

Following the panel discussion, participants and panelists will be placed in breakout rooms in smaller groups to continue discussing the topic using a World Cafe format.

Two 30-minute rounds of world cafe-style breakouts will be followed by a thirty-minute “roundup” that reports out on the findings of each breakout room.

The final thirty minutes of the workshop will synthesize the proceedings into next steps.

NOTE TO ALL PARTICIPANTS: Both the Panel Discussion and the Roundup / Next Steps will be recorded for later distribution. If you do not wish to be recorded, you are kindly asked not to participate in these elements of the workshop.