CT AMC Conservation Committee

Conservation Workshop February 4 -- "Fighting for Connecticut's Environment"

Workshop Pictures!

Conservation Committee Stages Successful Workshop

By

Andrew May

In our collective experience, the Conservation Committee found that many people wanted to do more to protect the woods, streams, and lakes that they care passionately about but felt hindered by two basic concerns: I do not have enough expertise to be confident about expressing myself or I hate politics. In an attempt to address these ongoing concerns, the Conservation Committee, with money from AMC's Special Project Fund, held a workshop on February 4th entitled, "Fighting for Connecticut's Environment"

To address the first concern, the fourty-five attendees heard from both experts on environmental issues and seasoned political pros. After introductions, Kristen Sykes from the AMC gave an overview of AMC's work in protecting the Highlands Region of Connecticut. For those who were not aware, Ms. Sykes demonstrated the value of this region and the opportunity we have to preserve some of the treasures contained therein. Then Patty Pendergast, who is a lobbyist for the Connecticut Forest & Park Association outlined some of her hopes & fears for the upcoming Legislative session. She was especially poignant in expressing her fear that hikers would become complacent and allow ATV-users to win the right to ride in State Parks and State Forests.

In the afternoon, Representatives Jim O'Rourke (D-Cromwell) and Richard Roy (D-Milford) gave perspective on successful lobbying of office-holders. Representative O'Rourke co-chairs AMC's Conservation Committee in Connecticut and was lauded in his efforts, by Ms. Pendergast, for his previous efforts in preventing ATVs on Public Lands;while, Representative Roy who co-chairs the Legislature's Environmental Committee outlined his priorities for the next session. He said one of his main priorities is securing more money and personnel for the ongoing maintenance of our State Parks, including more enforcement personnel. Next, Lori Brown, Director of the Connecticut League of Conservation Voters, explained the role her organization plays in educating the public on how their Representatives vote on the environment and,thus, how to hold them accountable. Lastly, Faith Salter from AMC headquarters explained how, through the Conservation Action Network (CAN), AMC members can be a powerful an effective voice for the environment in Hartford. Those who have signed-up for CAN in Connecticut, for example, were recently alerted about a pro-ATV Rally in Hartford and advised how best to respond.

To try to address the general distrust of politics, there was ample time set aside for socializing and ample food, generously provided by Wild Oats Natural Food Market and Lyman Orchards. There was also a midday hike, giving everyone a chance to stretch, talk, and learn about "Leave No Trace" and vernal pools. Most importantly, all the presenters made themselves readily available throughout the day for informal conversation.

The ancient Greek Statesman Plutarch once opined that," Politics is a way of life".Joining the AMC and working with the Conservation Committee, in whatever capacity you can, are effective ways to make fighting for Connecticut's environment part of your life.