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Recent Press Releases
February 11, 2010
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Media Contact: Program Manager, Betony Jones, betony.jones@gmail.com, 530-563-8384 and Communications Director, Nikki Streegan, nstreegan@sbcouncil.org, 530-582-4800
$4.8 Million Dollar Energy Efficiency Program comes to the Sierra Nevada
Local governments and businesses in 14 Sierra Nevada counties will have new access to cutting edge energy efficient technology through a new collaboration between Sierra Business Council and Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E). From 2010 to 2012, Sierra Business Council, a non-profit organization based in Truckee, CA will be offering free energy audits and low-cost retrofits to commercial PG&E customers in the Sierra Nevada through a new program called the Sierra Nevada Energy Watch.
“During this tough economic downturn, we are excited to be able to support our local businesses and governments by offering cost-cutting energy efficiency services,” said Steve Frisch, President of the Sierra Business Council. “This project embodies our long-standing mission of demonstrating that environmental quality and economic prosperity are compatible goals.”
In addition to offering energy efficiency services and products, the program will help local governments conduct greenhouse gas inventories and develop climate action plans to help the state meet its AB32 emission reduction goals. The program takes a comprehensive approach to the region’s energy needs. “We aren’t just dropping in light bulbs,” explained Program Manager, Betony Jones, “We are looking for deep, long-term savings, and we are developing the local workforce capacity to provide clean energy services far into the future.”
The Sierra Nevada Energy Watch program is funded by California utility ratepayers under the auspices of the California Public Utilities Commission. It offers services for municipal, special district, and non-profit facilities as well as small and medium businesses throughout the PG&E service area from Lassen to Mariposa Counties. Those interested in participating in the program or learning more should contact Sierra Business Council at 530-582-4800.
For more information about the Sierra Nevada Energy Watch Program, and to see tips on saving energy at home and the workplace, please visit www.sbcouncil.org/energywatch.
###
Feb. 10, 2010
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Nikki Streegan, 530-582-4800 New AmeriCorps Members Begin Service in Truckee
The Sierra Business Council Welcomes Shane Lopez and Martini Morris to a Year of National Service in 2010
Feb. 10, 2010, Truckee, Calif. - The Sierra Business Council welcomed Shane Lopez and Martini Morris as their AmeriCorps members in January 2010. Mr. Lopez and Ms. Morris are beginning their year of national service as Sierra Nevada AmeriCorps Partnership (SNAP) members based in Truckee. They are two of twenty-seven members, out of over 270 applicants, selected to serve to conduct watershed restoration, monitoring, and education and volunteer recruitment in the Sierra Nevada.
This is the fourth year of the AmeriCorps program in the Sierra Nevada region. Since 1994, AmeriCorps has been a network of local, state, and national service programs that connect more than 70,000 Americans each year in intensive service to meet our country’s critical needs in education, public safety, health, and the environment. The Sierra Nevada AmeriCorps Partnership (SNAP) mission is to assess and restore impaired watershed habitats and to increase community stewardship of the Sierra Nevada watersheds through education and volunteerism. Members serve with community non-profit groups and natural resource agencies. For more information on SNAP, call (530) 542-4546 or visit: www.sierranevadaalliance.org/programs/program.shtml?type=pgm08
“I am thrilled to be a SNAP member serving in Truckee,” said Martini Morris, Sierra Nevada AmeriCorps Partnership member. “The Sierra Business Council is exceptional in that they involve community, environment and economy in their projects. This is a fantastic opportunity to serve the community while learning about and exploring the Sierra Nevada.”
Members started their service with a week of training outside Yosemite National Park. Together these twenty-seven members will serve in the Sierra Nevada to: - Implement watershed restoration projects on 1000 acres of high priority lands and rivers;
- Educate over 10,000 individuals to broaden public awareness of watershed issues and restoration and to provide an avenue for people to get involved; and
- Engage over 1800 volunteers contributing over 13,000 hours towards projects which protect and restore watershed resources.
"We are excited for Shane and Martini to join SBC as AmeriCorps members," says Lisa Biddle, Project Assistant at Sierra Business Council. "They are passionate and articulate about environmental issues, and will bring those qualities to their service tasks of education, outreach and restoration. The things they will accomplish this year are truly invaluable to our organization and to our region. Martini is serving as a Watershed Education Assistant and Shane is serving as a Watershed Restoration Assistant." ###
Jan. 21, 2010
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Vickie Taton, vtaton@sbcouncil.org
USDA, SIERRA BUSINESS COUNCIL & CERRO COSO COMMUNITY COLLEGE TO HOST FORUM ON JOBS, ECONOMIC GROWTH Business Owners, Residents, Community Leaders Invited to Share Ideas on Creating Jobs DAVIS, January 19, 2010 – USDA Rural Development State Director Dr. Glenda Humiston announced today that the state office in partnership with the Sierra Business Council (SBC) and Cerro Coso Community College will hold a county-wide roundtable on job creation and economic growth on Tuesday, January 26 at 6:00 pm in Room 215-6 of Eastern Sierra College Center Mammoth Campus located at 101 College Parkway, Mammoth Lakes. “This forum will provide an opportunity for residents, business owners and community leaders across the state to share ideas on creating jobs and economic opportunities,” Humiston said. “Government can help lay the groundwork for economic growth, but the best ideas for continued growth and job creation often come from local and community leaders. I look forward to hearing these ideas and sharing them with the Administration.” The roundtable will include business owners, residents, state and local officials, union members, non-profit organizations, community leaders, economists and other interested parties. Participants will discuss steps that can to be taken to grow the economy and put Americans back to work. The primary focus will be on ideas to accelerate job growth in rural America. Some of the topics to be discussed are: - Exploring ways to rejuvenate and promote local businesses;
- Creating jobs by rebuilding America’s infrastructure;
- Creating new opportunities from existing ones, such as with value-added agricultural products;
- Supporting job growth among small businesses; and
- Preparing workers for 21st century jobs.
To reserve a space at this free roundtable, please contact SBC at (760) 258-1363 or vtaton@sbcouncil.org. In addition to today’s announcement, forums are being led and organized by USDA Rural Development throughout the state. Co-hosting this effort is USDA Farm Service Agency, Natural Resources Conservation Service and a wide variety of local organizers: Economic Development Corporations, U.C. Cooperative Extension, Resource Conservation and Development Councils, California State Universities, Farm Bureaus, Tribal Governments, and many more. To find a location near you, visit www.rurdev.usda.gov/ca. USDA Rural Development administers and manages more than 40 housing, business, and community infrastructure and facility programs as laid out by Congress through a network of 6,100 employees located in 500 national, state and local offices. These programs are designed to improve the economic stability of rural communities, businesses, residents, farmers and ranchers and improve the quality of life in rural America. Rural Development has an existing portfolio of more than $125 billion in loans and loan guarantees. ### USDA is an equal opportunity provider, employer and lender. To file a complaint of discrimination, write: USDA, Director, Office of Civil Rights, 1400 Independence Avenue, SW, Washington, DC 20250-9410 or call (800) 795-3272 (voice), or (202) 720-6382 (TDD). Dec. 4, 2009
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE For more information, contact Vickie Taton, vtaton@sbcouncil.org; or Lynne Almeida, spellbinderbooks@verizon.net. Think Local First Eastern Sierra launches holiday shopping "Scavenger Hunt" On December 1st, local shoppers can look for new information – and a fun holiday shopping game – at their favorite Think Local First businesses and organizations. The group has produced a new counter card that lists all of their 50+ members, as of press time. Additionally, they’re inviting all their customers to play a ‘holiday shopping scavenger hunt’ game, where contestants save any and all receipts from purchases they make from Think Local First members. At the end of the month, contestants will mail in their receipts, and two generous prize gift baskets will be awarded in January: one for the highest number of receipts overall, and one for receipts from the most TLF locations. There is no minimum dollar amount per purchase for a receipt to qualify.
“Our TLF members have donated some really generous prizes for this contest”, said Vickie Taton, regional rep for the Sierra Business Council. She is heading up the TLF program locally. Lynne Almeida of Spellbinder Books added, “Over the last couple of years, we’ve had more and more people coming in and saying, ‘I’m shopping locally this holiday season’. We thought this game would be a fun and different way to say thank you to all our loyal customers. That’s one reason why any receipt, regardless how small, is eligible for entry … this contest is about having fun shopping locally, rather than who has the most money. So save your receipts from those bookmarks you buy from us, your cup of coffee from Black Sheep, and your shoelaces from Sage to Summit!”
Study after study shows that independent, locally-owned businesses have a special role to play in the vitality of our local economies and communities. If you are interested in having your business or organization participate in Think Local First—Eastern Sierra, or just want more information, please contact Vickie Taton at (760) 258-1363 or vtaton@sbcouncil,org , or visit one of these web sites: www.livingeconomies.org, or www.sbcouncil.org. More information on the contest can be found on the “Local Shoppers Holiday Scavenger Hunt” cards available at Think Local First member locations. ### December 1, 2009
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Tim Ahern 415-710-9095 or Kristen Batten 415-281-0411 John Bernstein Joins the Northern Sierra Partnership as President The Northern Sierra Partnership is pleased to announce the selection of Dr. John Bernstein as President of the Partnership. John will spearhead the campaign to protect over 100,000 acres of priority land in the Northern Sierra, known for the stunning beauty of its windswept peaks, the productivity of its expansive forests, the ecological richness of its meadows and ranch lands, and its unique importance as the source of more than half of California's water.
Educated as a physician, John has been active in land conservation for over twenty years, leading conservation organizations on both the West and East coasts. Most recently, he served as Vice President for Conservation at the Pacific Forest Trust where he worked with private forest owners, including major timber companies, to ensure sustainable management of timberlands. He also served as Director of Conservation Programs at the Land Trust Alliance, the national association of land trusts and conservation organizations.
“I am delighted that John Bernstein has agreed to serve as President of the Partnership,” said Lucy Blake, Chair of the Partnership's Governing Council. “The time to protect this extraordinary region is now, and John is just the person to lead our campaign forward.”
The Northern Sierra Partnership is a pioneering alliance of five leading conservation organizations—The Nature Conservancy, The Trust for Public Land, the Feather River Land Trust, the Truckee Donner Land Trust, and the Sierra Business Council—working together to conserve the lands and waters of the Northern Sierra Nevada for future generations. The Partnership works to protect high-quality water supplies, world-class outdoor recreation, healthy forests that sequester carbon, natural habitat for native fish and wildlife, and working ranches and forests for the citizens of California.
Jim and Becky Morgan, co-founders of the Northern Sierra Partnership, expressed their enthusiasm for Bernstein’s appointment. “Most people don’t know that much of the Sierra Nevada, California’s greatest mountain range, is at risk from ill-conceived development, wildfire, and other threats to its ecological well-being,” said Jim Morgan. “Healthy ecosystems are the foundation of healthy economies. Becky and I are looking forward to working with John, our five Partners, and the people of the Northern Sierra to address the challenges facing this critically important region.”
For more information, please visit www.northernsierrapartnership.org. ### October 19, 2009
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Nicole DeJonghe, Project Manager, Sierra Business Council, 530-582-4800 ext. 25, ndejonghe@sbcouncil.org
Nikki Streegan, Communications Director, Sierra Business Council, 530.582.4800, nstreegan@sbcouncil.org
Sierra Nevada’s Geotourism MapGuide awarded $205,000 from Federal Highway Administration Awards for Scenic Byways, nomination period closing for Central Sierra
Communities in 43 states will receive $40.7 million for 160 projects to improve and promote highways designated as scenic byways, Federal Highway Administrator Victor Mendez announced Friday, October 9, 2009. The recently launched Sierra Nevada Geotourism Project was awarded $205,000 for its efforts in the Central Sierra Nevada. The Sierra Nevada Geotourism project seeks to promote tourism for the 21st century; tourism that can conserve the region’s historic towns and heritage sites, restore and protect the landscape, and sustain local businesses and communities.
“This grant is going to allow the partnership in the Central Sierra to do very robust outreach and identification of assets for the Geotourism Website,” said Sierra Business Council’s President, Steven Frisch. “It will demonstrate to the rest of the Sierra Nevada how valuable this sort of project could be for building a long term constituency for land stewardship and community building.”
The grants are part of the Federal Highway Administration’s National Scenic Byways Program, which recognizes and provides funding for roads designated either locally or nationally as having outstanding scenic, historic, cultural, natural, recreational and archaeological qualities.
With the arrival of this great news (and some beautiful fall colors) also comes the closing deadline for the Central Sierra nomination period. The site has only received one nomination related to the harvest season – the Chappell Winery grape stomp that takes place during the Mariposa Agri-Nature Trail weekend every September.
Kris Casto is looking forward to a spring hike on the Hite Cove trail when the Merced River is running fast and the hillsides are awash in wildflowers. Every summer, migrating birds descend on Mono Lake, and several partners from the eastern Sierra sponsor its Bird Chautaqua, a three day festival combining art and music, natural history and field trips.
Make a nomination for the Sierra Geotourism mapguide today, and consider not just place, but season.
The deadline for nominations in the Central Sierra is Saturday, October 31st. Hundreds of nominations at www.SierraNevadaGeotourism.org have been received over a three month nomination period including a swell of great restaurants and wineries, local volunteer opportunities, unique recreation opportunities, and niche stores and shops that help to maintain the character of rural towns throughout the Sierra Nevada.
One thing is for certain: people who live in the Sierra love it. They love it so much that balancing the protection of natural resources and economic viability is of utmost importance to them. And they’re convinced that if visitors can tap into the National Geographic mapguide their experience is sure to be one-of-a-kind.
What do you love about the Sierra Nevada? Help tell the story of this extraordinary mountain range by going to www.SierraNevadaGeotourism.org.
### August 12, 2009
Media Contacts:
Nicole DeJonghe, 530.582.4800, ndejonghe@sbcouncil.org
Shana Avalos, Outreach and Partnership Program Coordinator, Sierra Nevada Conservancy, savalos@sierranevada.ca.gov
New National Geographic MapGuide to Highlight Sierra Nevada Region
Web site to highlight authentic places in vast scenic area
WHAT: Press Conference to announce the Geotourism Web site
WHERE: Mariposa Museum and History Center, Mariposa, CA
WHEN: Wednesday, August 19, 2009, 10 to 11:30 am
The National Geographic Society has partnered with the Sierra Nevada Conservancy and Sierra Business Council to capture the history and heritage of the Sierra Nevada Region in order to create an interactive Web site and print map. The Sierra Nevada Geotourism Project seeks to celebrate the Sierra Nevada as a world-class destination, while contributing to the economic health of the region by promoting sustainable tourism. History buffs and adventurers, backpackers and foodies, birders and sightseers can discover unique destinations based on recommendations from those who know best — residents of the Sierra Nevada.
Sierra residents and visitors, community organizations, tourism stakeholders and local businesses will nominate sites for potential inclusion in a print MapGuide and interactive Web site. Unlike any other mapping project, a favorite local restaurant, farm, winery, hiking or biking trail, swimming hole, museum or artist gallery are samples of the type of nominations National Geographic and its project partners will be seeking. The Web site will target a variety of growing travel niches — adventure and nature tourism, cultural heritage travel and agritourism – and allow for residents to select the one-of-a-kind places integral to a distinctive character of place.
“The breadth of the beauty in the Sierra Nevada is tremendously unique. Lassen National Park, Lake Tahoe, Yosemite National Park, and Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks are incredible jewels in this 400-mile-long region,” said Steve Frisch, President, Sierra Business Council.
“The Sierra Nevada Geotourism Project is the perfect synthesis between economic outreach to culturally rich communities and respect for the planet,” he added.
Geotourism is defined as tourism that sustains or enhances the geographical character of a place — its environment, culture, aesthetics, heritage and the well-being of its residents. Geotourism helps travelers to tread lightly and enjoy a locale’s sense of place.
“An inherent benefit of geotourism is connecting diverse interests under a common goal,” said Jim Dion, Associate Director of National Geographic Society’s Center for Sustainable Destinations. “The design of the MapGuide process, specifically in forming a regional stewardship council, encourages and builds mutually beneficial partnerships.”
A Geotourism Council will oversee the Sierra Nevada Geotourism Project. Working with the National Geographic Society, the Geo Council will: - Encourage community participation in the collection of nominations for the geotourism Web site and MapGuide during the three-month nomination period.
- Review the nominations and identify themes for the project; work with National Geographic on the writing, editing, fact-checking and design of the Web site and print MapGuide.
- Develop a marketing plan for the site; oversee the MapGuide’s distribution and contribute fresh material to the Web site; and encourage long-term stewardship of the Sierra’s natural, historic and cultural assets.
Nominations begin in the Yosemite Gateway region at the August 19 press event, with the initial Web site slated to launch January 2010 and completion of the Web site covering the entire range slated for November 2010.
The National Geographic Society has worked with community-based alliances to develop similar Geotourism MapGuides in several other regions around the world. MapGuide projects have been completed in Greater Yellowstone, the Central Cascades (Oregon, Washington), the Crown of the Continent (Alberta, British Columbia, Montana), Guatemala, Montreal, Sonoran Desert (Arizona, Sonora), Romania, Norway, Honduras, Peru, Baja California, Rhode Island, Vermont and Appalachia.
The National Geographic Society is one of the world's largest nonprofit scientific and educational organizations. Founded in 1888 to “increase and diffuse geographic knowledge,” the Society works to inspire people to care about the planet. It reaches more than 370 million people worldwide each month through its official journal, National Geographic, and other magazines; National Geographic Channel; television documentaries; music; radio; films; books; DVDs; maps; exhibitions; live events; school publishing programs; interactive media; and merchandise. National Geographic has funded more than 9,000 scientific research, conservation and exploration projects and supports an education program promoting geographic literacy. For more information, visit nationalgeographic.com.
Members of the press from around the region are encouraged to join this launch in Mariposa, CA, on Wednesday, August 19, 2009, and visit the Sierra Nevada Geotourism Media Kit at www.sbcouncil.org/geotourismmediakit. Please note that the Mariposa Museum and History center will be offering complimentary admission to all visitors that day.
Speakers include:
James Dion, Associate Director of National Geographic’s Center for Sustainable Destinations, jdion@ngs.org
Ron Loya, President of the Mariposa Museum and History Center Board of Directors, 209-966-2924
Brad Aborn, Mariposa County Board of Supervisors Chair, baborn@mariposacounty.org
Nicole DeJonghe, Sierra Business Council, ndejonghe@sbcouncil.org
Bob Kingman, Sierra Nevada Conservancy, bkingman@sierranevada.ca.gov
The Sierra Nevada Geotourism project is being advanced with the support of the National Park Service, the United States Forest Service, the Bureau of Land Management and the California Department of Parks and Recreation.
###
September 1, 2009
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Steven Frisch, President, Sierra Business Council, 530.277.3763, sfrisch@sbcouncil.org
Sierra Business Council announces former TRPA Executive Director as new Chief Operating Officer
TRUCKEE, CA—Sierra Business Council (SBC), a non-profit association of more than 750 members committed to promoting the sustainability of the Sierra Nevada, is pleased to announce the addition of John Singlaub to their staff as the Executive Director/Chief Operating Officer. Mr. Singlaub will be responsible for overseeing the implementation of SBC’s portfolio of project work, as well as finance, human resources and legal affairs.
“We are very pleased to have John joining our team,” said Sierra Business Council President and Chief Executive Officer, Steve Frisch. “He brings a remarkable body of experience and knowledge of the region which will help us better serve our constituents and continue the success of our membership’s shared vision of the Sierra.”
John recently left the Tahoe Regional Planning Agency (TRPA), after serving five years as the Executive Director. TRPA is the bi-state planning and regulatory agency responsible for the protection and restoration of Lake Tahoe. Prior to that, John served more than 25 years as a planner and manager for the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), most recently as the District Manager for BLM in Carson City, Nevada. Other BLM assignments included Oregon, New Mexico, Colorado and Washington, DC.
“I’m extremely happy to be joining the Sierra Business Council,” said Singlaub. “This is an organization whose mission I am deeply passionate about. I am looking forward to using my experience to help the region meet its goals and create a brighter future.”
John is currently a member of the Board of Directors of the Sierra Business Council, but will be resigning from that post to accept this position. ##### August 12, 2009
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Media Contacts:
Bradley Cleveland, 510.967.1066, sierrageotourism@sbcouncil.org
Nicole DeJonghe, 530.582.4800, ndejonghe@sbcouncil.org
Shana Avalos, Outreach and Partnership Program Coordinator, Sierra Nevada Conservancy, savalos@sierranevada.ca.gov
New National Geographic MapGuide to Highlight Sierra Nevada Region
Web site to highlight authentic places in vast scenic area
The National Geographic Society has partnered with the Sierra Nevada Conservancy and Sierra Business Council to capture the history and heritage of the Sierra Nevada Region in order to create an interactive Web site and print map. The Sierra Nevada Geotourism Project seeks to celebrate the Sierra Nevada as a world-class destination, while contributing to the economic health of the region by promoting sustainable tourism. History buffs and adventurers, backpackers and foodies, birders and sightseers can discover unique destinations based on recommendations from those who know best — residents of the Sierra Nevada.
Sierra residents and visitors, community organizations, tourism stakeholders and local businesses will nominate sites for potential inclusion in a print MapGuide and interactive Web site. Unlike any other mapping project, a favorite local restaurant, farm, winery, hiking or biking trail, swimming hole, museum or artist gallery are samples of the type of nominations National Geographic and its project partners will be seeking. The Web site will target a variety of growing travel niches — adventure and nature tourism, cultural heritage travel and agritourism – and allow for residents to select the one-of-a-kind places integral to a distinctive character of place.
“The breadth of the beauty in the Sierra Nevada is tremendously unique. Lassen National Park, Lake Tahoe, Yosemite National Park, and Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks are incredible jewels in this 400-mile-long region,” said Steve Frisch, President, Sierra Business Council.
“The Sierra Nevada Geotourism Project is the perfect synthesis between economic outreach to culturally rich communities and respect for the planet,” he added.
Geotourism is defined as tourism that sustains or enhances the geographical character of a place — its environment, culture, aesthetics, heritage and the well-being of its residents. Geotourism helps travelers to tread lightly and enjoy a locale’s sense of place.
“An inherent benefit of geotourism is connecting diverse interests under a common goal,” said Jim Dion, Associate Director of National Geographic Society’s Center for Sustainable Destinations. “The design of the MapGuide process, specifically in forming a regional stewardship council, encourages and builds mutually beneficial partnerships.”
A Geotourism Council will oversee the Sierra Nevada Geotourism Project. Working with the National Geographic Society, the Geo Council will: - Encourage community participation in the collection of nominations for the geotourism Web site and MapGuide during the three-month nomination period.
- Review the nominations and identify themes for the project; work with National Geographic on the writing, editing, fact-checking and design of the Web site and print MapGuide.
- Develop a marketing plan for the site; oversee the MapGuide’s distribution and contribute fresh material to the Web site; and encourage long-term stewardship of the Sierra’s natural, historic and cultural assets.
Nominations begin in the Yosemite Gateway region at the August 19 press event, with the initial Web site slated to launch January 2010 and completion of the Web site covering the entire range slated for November 2010.
The National Geographic Society has worked with community-based alliances to develop similar Geotourism MapGuides in several other regions around the world. MapGuide projects have been completed in Greater Yellowstone, the Central Cascades (Oregon, Washington), the Crown of the Continent (Alberta, British Columbia, Montana), Guatemala, Montreal, Sonoran Desert (Arizona, Sonora), Romania, Norway, Honduras, Peru, Baja California, Rhode Island, Vermont and Appalachia.
The National Geographic Society is one of the world's largest nonprofit scientific and educational organizations. Founded in 1888 to “increase and diffuse geographic knowledge,” the Society works to inspire people to care about the planet. It reaches more than 370 million people worldwide each month through its official journal, National Geographic, and other magazines; National Geographic Channel; television documentaries; music; radio; films; books; DVDs; maps; exhibitions; live events; school publishing programs; interactive media; and merchandise. National Geographic has funded more than 9,000 scientific research, conservation and exploration projects and supports an education program promoting geographic literacy. For more information, visit nationalgeographic.com.
Members of the press from around the region are encouraged to join this launch in Mariposa, CA, on Wednesday, August 19, 2009, and visit the Sierra Nevada Geotourism Media Kit at www.sbcouncil.org/geotourismmediakit. Please note that the Mariposa Museum and History center will be offering complimentary admission to all visitors that day.
Speakers include: - James Dion, Associate Director of National Geographic’s Center for Sustainable Destinations, jdion@ngs.org
- Ron Loya, President of the Mariposa Museum and History Center Board of Directors, 209-966-2924
- Brad Aborn, Mariposa County Board of Supervisors Chair, baborn@mariposacounty.org
- Nicole DeJonghe, Sierra Business Council, ndejonghe@sbcouncil.org
- Bob Kingman, Sierra Nevada Conservancy, bkingman@sierranevada.ca.gov
The Sierra Nevada Geotourism project is being advanced with the support of the National Park Service, the United States Forest Service, the Bureau of Land Management and the California Department of Parks and Recreation. July 10, 2009
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Media Contact: Nikki Streegan, nstreegan@sbcouncil.org, 530-582-4800 ext. 12
Exploratory discussions of a state constitutional convention come to Truckee High School, August 21st, 9:30am-12:30pm
Truckee, Calif. – As California dives deeper and deeper into a $24 billion deficit discussions around the Sierra Nevada and the state about the potential to call a constitutional convention have become very real. It sounds radical, but the push for a constitutional convention has been buzzing for almost a year, and convening one could inevitably address California’s revenue and governance crises.
The proposed convention, as described by the Bay Area Council, could include such issues as: budget reform to include performance based budgeting and multi-year budgeting; election reform to create a unicameral legislature and address term limits; tax reform to create a more stable source of funding for local government; and improved government oversight by creating a sunset commission to review and eliminate programs, commissions, boards, and agencies periodically.
Sierra Business Council is hosting a constitutional convention town hall meeting at Truckee High School, August 21st at 9:30am with co-host, Bay Area Council. The regional sustainability non-profit’s interest is in making sure a voice from the Sierra Nevada is heard throughout this emerging process.
“Our intent is to convene groups up and down the region and record interest and issues. This process has potential to deeply affect government, budget, and fiscal issues and must take account of rural parts of the state,” said Sierra Business Council’s President, Steven Frisch.
The non-profit organization’s only role has been to create a space and place for a dialogue to happen.
“As the problems of the State are addressed, it is critically important that rural and mountain communities have a voice in our governance. The needs of the Sierra Nevada must be included in the dialogue to ensure the protection of our natural, historic, social and economic interests,” said Maia Schneider, former Mayor of the Town of Truckee.
Convention organizers, who include non-profit organizations, business associations, political organizations, and individuals, face a significant hurdle: The California Constitution requires the Legislature to approve any convention by a two-thirds vote -- something many organizers believe would never happen. To work around that barrier, those pushing for a convention say they will put a measure on the same ballot eliminating the need for such approval.
Jim Wunderman, president and CEO of Bay Area Council, is a lead supporter of the Repair California movement. In a recent opinion piece for the Sacramento Bee he wrote, “We will give the people of California the right to call a constitutional convention (a right we are currently denied, unlike in other states), and we will call a limited convention of citizens. Those citizens will look at California's governance rules with the state's top experts and recommend changes. Then, we, the people, will vote on the changes they propose.”
May 11, 2009
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Media, Nikki Streegan, nstreegan@sbcouncil.org, 530.582.4800
Conversations about rewriting state constitution begin in the Sierra Nevada
Auburn, Calif. – On Monday, a group of 25 stakeholders, including Sierra Business Council and the Bay Area Council, convened to discuss the potential to call a new California constitution convention to address California’s revenue and governance crises. The meeting was hosted by Sierra Business Council President, Steve Frisch, and featured a presentation by Bay Area Council President and CEO, Jim Wunderman.
California has had two previous Constitutional Conventions: in 1849 and the 1878 Convention that produced our current system. California’s constitution has been amended more than 500 times since 1878.
Calling a constitutional convention would require placing measures on a state-wide ballot to give the voters the right to call a convention, and to define the terms and conditions for convening a convention.
According to a recent Public Policy Institute of California survey most Californians agree that California is headed in the wrong direction (68%), the state budget needs major changes (78%), and that state government is pretty much run by a few big interests rather than for the benefit of the people (68%). California faces crises in budgeting, health care, education, water supply, and prison services and California voters no longer trust our elected officials to solve the problem.
The proposed convention, as described by the Bay Area Council, could include such issues as: budget reform to include performance based budgeting and multi-year budgeting; election reform to create a unicameral legislature and lengthen term limits; tax reform to create a more stable source of funding for local government; or improved government oversight by creating a sunset commission to review and eliminate programs, commissions, boards, and agencies periodically.
Sierra Business Council’s interest is in making sure a voice from the Sierra Nevada is heard throughout this emerging process. Currently the non-profit organizations role has been to create a space and place for a dialogue to happen.
“Our intent is to convene groups up and down the region and record interest and issues. This process has potential to deeply affect government, budget, and fiscal issues and must take account of rural parts of the state,” said Sierra Business Council’s President, Steven Frisch. April 28, 2009
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Media, Nikki Streegan, nstreegan@sbcouncil.org, 530.582.4800
California communities bring green job ideas to capitol
Representatives from the Sierra Business Council take job creation ideas to the Washington D.C.
TRUCKEE — Representatives of business and conservation groups from California and other western states arrive in Washington D.C., this week with economic stimulus policy recommendations that include ways to create green jobs for rural communities, which currently suffer the highest unemployment rates in the state — and the nation.
Counties like Trinity have unemployment rates higher than 20 percent. Working together as the Rural Voices for Conservation Coalition, the groups are meeting throughout the week with members of Congress and Obama administration officials to highlight “shovel-ready” green job opportunities in rural areas.
“Rural communities struggle with a lack of economic diversity, so when times get tough, the effects are immediate and recovery is slow. We want to make sure the new administration knows there opportunities for green job development in rural areas, and long-term health of rural communities and natural ecosystems depends on building strong, sustainable, place-based economies,” said Betony Jones, from the Sierra Business Council.
Jones mentioned several opportunities for rural green jobs include improving energy efficiency in buildings, increasing access to rural broadband to reduce commute traffic, redeveloping brownfield mill sites as manufacturing plants for renewable energy equipment, locating data centers near clean sources of power, and providing support for local family farmers. “In some areas, we need to invest in green job training, apprentice programs, and vocational schools. In other areas, there are skilled people, ready to work now.”
Rural Voices for Conservation Coalition policy recommendations include a $5 billion investment to improve the health and productivity of public forests, which provides multiple benefits such as employment for forest workers who have been displaced by the decline of logging and can also reduce the cost of fighting forest fires in the future and save taxpayer dollars.
Rural Voices for Conservation Coalition also recommends funding for land management activities including fire hazard reduction, restoration of watersheds and wetlands, wildlife habit improvements, control of noxious weeds and invasive species, range restoration, and recreation site maintenance, wildlife surveys, and the planting and maintaining of river and riparian areas.
“It’s just sound public policy to invest in our public lands while acknowledging the world class stewardship workforce that exists in our rural communities today. These pivotal investments can be transformative for rural communities who have the right and the responsibility to manage the land for all of society. There is no greener job than a natural resource job,” said Lynn Jungwirth, from the Watershed Center in Trinity County, California.
Jungwirth also identified “shovel ready” capital improvement opportunities that include road decommissioning and maintenance that will reduce the risk of catastrophic road failures during storms and reduce stream sedimentation and replacing decaying bridges with modern timber bridges. Facilities improvements could include improvements at recreation sites and campgrounds as well as energy efficiency retrofits to USFS buildings. “Public land communities are skilled and ready to go to work,” added Jungwirth. March 13, 2009
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Media, Nikki Streegan, nstreegan@sbcouncil.org, 530.582.4800
Bringing the Sierra to the State Capital: Sierra Nevada leaders honored with Vision 2020 Award in Sacramento
SACRAMENTO, Calif. – Some of the greatest things happen under conditions of adversity and at Sierra Business Council we’re committed to approaches that create opportunity from those exact circumstances. Community members, organizations, and businesses are still doing great work, doubling their efforts, and calling for change despite the economic downturn and the uncertainty we face.
Each year, the regional sustainability non-profit, Sierra Business Council, hosts an event to recognize and encourage leadership in the Sierra, honoring community members as their work continues to achieve excellence in projects and approaches that foster community vitality, environmental quality, economic prosperity, and social fairness.
"Throughout the Sierra, we recognize the growing need to bridge the divide between rural and urban communities in California. Bringing our Vision 2020 celebration to Sacramento does just that," said Sierra Business Council's President, Steven Frisch.
As a way to highlight the issue, this year’s theme for the Vision 2020 Awards is a Sierra Getaway Party. This free event is open to anyone who wants to “escape to the Sierra” for the evening.
Sierra Business Council’s 2008 Vision 2020 Awards Celebration features presentations from Vision 2020 Award winners and appetizers and dessert sourced from the Sierra with the help of the Placer Gold Slow Food chapter.
This year’s winners include the partnership between Executive Chef Mark Estee of Moody’s Bistro & Lounge, Baxter’s Bistro and Lounge, and Founder of Burger Me in Truckee, CA and Gary Romano from Sierra Valley Farms. This duo has demonstrated support for sustainable food in the Sierra Valley, Lake Tahoe and Placer County areas. Gary and Mark’s relationship demonstrates commitment to local farmers and sustainable agriculture.
John Wentworth of Mammoth Lakes is being honored for his accomplishments with Mammoth Lakes Trails and Public Access (MLTPA). MLTPA has worked diligently to bring much-deserved focus and attention to the future of the Mammoth community and its critical relationship with environmental resources. MLTPA has engaged with Town government, federal agencies, other nonprofits, the public, and private businesses to work collaboratively toward its mission.
Paul Hardy, Executive Director of Feather River Land Trust, has been awarded for his achievement in building one of the most effective and enduring land trusts in California. Paul has demonstrated a remarkable commitment to partnership and collaboration and has imparted a strong ethic of conservation among many leaders.
Phil Carville, President and CEO of Carville Sierra Inc., a family owned and operated development company, is being awarded for his outstanding work on the Loma Rica Ranch project in the City of Grass Valley. Phil has become one of the region’s most determined spokesmen for New Urbanism, Traditional Neighborhood Design, and Smart Growth within the Sierra Nevada.
SBC’s 2008 Vision 2020 Awards Celebration takes place on Thursday, March 19, 2009 from 6:00-10:00pm and is hosted at The Grand Ballroom in Sacramento, CA located at 629 J Street. Please visit www.sbcouncil.org for more information.
RSVP requested at www.sbcouncil.org/celebratesierra. ##### October 8, 2008 CONTACT
Nikki Streegan at nstreegan@sbcouncil.org, 530.582.4800 ext. 12 Governor Schwarzenegger endorses conservation partnership, features Sierra Business Council’s work
TRUCKEE, California – The Northern Sierra Partnership is a unique alliance between Sierra Business Council, The Trust for Public Land, The Nature Conservancy, Truckee Donner Land Trust, and Feather River Land Trust. Its goal is to conserve the most valuable lands and waters in the region, create new resource economies to anchor regional prosperity, and preserve traditional lifestyles of the northern Sierra.
The Sierra Nevada possesses exceptional natural, cultural, and recreational resources including: - Clean water furnished to 65% of California’s residents
- One of the most carbon-rich forests on the planet
- Globally significant lakes, rivers, wetlands, forests, and wildlife species
- Scenic landscapes visited by hundreds of thousands of people each year
- Family ranches and working forests that provide livelihood for local people
The Northern Sierra Partnership has been in development for more than a year seeking to align economic and community goals with land conservation and climate change adaptation strategies. With Governor Schwarzenegger’s announcement of the Partnership this morning, the five leading organizations can begin to implement the vision of connected landscape, restored forests, improved water quality, and sustainable land-use from south of Lake Tahoe to Lassen Volcanic National Park.
Sierra Business Council’s (SBC) role in the partnership is to plan and manage selected public policy initiatives, drawing on our experience linking the health of our environment, economy, and people. The policy initiatives will focus on: - Protecting and restoring the regions lakes, rivers, and wetlands
- Restoring forest health while also reducing the risk of fire, maintaining sustainable timber harvest, and storing carbon
- Promoting sustainable land use and enhancing community prosperity
- Implementing the California Climate Action Plan in the northern Sierra
Sierra Business Council will achieve these goals through on-the-ground project implementation, land use and policy research, and policy education and advocacy.
“We need a new economy based on thrift, land health, people and place—this is the way to build the new economy for the 21st Century.”—Steve Frisch, President, Sierra Business Council
“This announcement means that State investments will achieve their purposes faster, more efficiently, with greater results, and with more positive impact to our local economies.”—Rich Morrison, Chairman of the Board, Sierra Business Council.
“The Sierra Nevada plays a vital role in achieving California’s Climate Action Plan, its forests and watersheds are the perfect place to meet the challenge.”—Betony Jones, Director of Program Development, Sierra Business Council
The Northern Sierra Partnership will work with private landowners, government agencies, other collaborating organizations, and local communities to provide public benefits such as a high-quality water supply, world-class outdoor recreation, and carbon sequestration; safeguard habitats crucial for native species and species diversity; and maintain a critical mass of working ranches, forests, and tribal lands. The Northern Sierra Partnership will also help residents make the transition to sustainable economic activities that promote community well-being and help keep local communities viable in the future.
How to help
By acting promptly and working together, we can make sure that this region's remarkable natural, cultural, and recreational resources -- and their vital role in ensuring California's future -- will be protected for future generations. To find out how you can help contact Kendra Armer: (650) 591-3482 or info@northernsierrapartnership.org.
Read more about Northern Sierra Partnership at www.northernsierrapartnership.org and www.sbcouncil.org/northernsierrapartnership.
###### October 6, 2008 CONTACT
Media: Pamela Biery pamela@velocity7.com, 530.470.9292 or 530.218.2027
or Nikki Streegan nstreegan@sbcouncil.org, 530.582.4800
Sierra Business Council Sierra Solutions Conference: Big Ideas for a Small Planet
MAMMOTH LAKES, California—The Sierra Business Council and Sierra Nevada Conservancy hosted the Sierra Solutions Conference October 3-4. Over 200 members gathered from across California to share insights and learn from leaders in housing, sustainable development, carbon sequestration, and sound energy policies and practices.
The Sierra Business Council’s (SBC) mission embraces community, environment and the economy, and this was reflected in the broad range of speakers and topics.
During the day Thursday, 20 high school students from urban and rural areas throughout California were out on the trail hiking, rock-climbing and exploring the Sierra through SBC’s Sierra Nevada Youth Empowerment Program. Engendering the next generation of stewards is a priority with Sierra Business Council, and with the support of the Pacific Forest and Watershed Lands Stewardship Council, these students participated fully in the entire conference, adding their important voices throughout the conference and to the closing comments.
Thursday evening some 100+ guests shared their experiences at the Sierra Leadership Institute Alumni dinner, celebrating the success of SBC’s Sierra Leadership Institute (SLI). The SLI is an annual collaborative leadership training session founded in 1996 and is designed to improve individual professional skills while enhancing the civic infrastructure of our region, over 250 Sierra Leadership Institute alumni currently work throughout the Sierra, contributing to the quality of life and economic well being of the region.
SBC Founder and Past President, Lucy Blake, opened Sierra Solutions with a return to the values that began the Sierra Business Council, looking forward to a vision where business leads for integrated success in environment, economic and social solutions.
Chief Executive Officer Mammoth Mountain Ski Resort, Rusty Gregory, made sure everyone felt at home for the Sierra Solutions Conference. Mammoth Mountain is the first ski resort in California to put in place a measurement program with the California Alpine Resort Environmental Cooperative (CAREC). A tour of the erosion control test plots at Mammoth Mountain was held on Sunday, October 5. In the opening remarks, Gregory noted the need for balance in embracing unique opportunities as an organization. “Mammoth is long-term orientated, but also focused on surviving the short-term, so we get to those long term goals.” Mammoth Mountain Executive Chef Reed Hearon provided memorable meals using local foods, showcasing ranches and farms in the Eastern Sierra with extraordinarily delectable results.
Sierra Business Council honors outstanding community member efforts with the annual Vision 2020 Award. This award is designed to recognize those firms and individuals charting the course for a sustainable future by the year 2020. The conference dinner on Friday opened nominations for this prestigious award.
The SBC's Board of Directors will select the award winners from member nominations and present the 2009 awards on March 19 in Sacramento, California. Sierra Business Council’s 2009 Vision 2020 Awards Celebration will feature presentations from Vision 2020 Award winners, comments from past winners, a Slow Food Dinner and of course, important news from the Sierra Nevada. SBC established the Awards in 1996 to recognize and reward innovation and leadership in the Sierra Nevada region.
“We are honored every year by the remarkable accomplishments of our friends and neighbors; they are the people in our communities who do the heavy lifting to make our futures bright. One of our greatest pleasures is being able to recognize them for their innovation and hard work,” said Rich Morrison, Chairman of the Board, Sierra Business Council.
“The Vision 2020 Awards are being held in Sacramento as a way to bring the importance of the Sierra Nevada in California to the State Capitol. This change is both symbolic and practical in communicating our message to the population of the entire state,” commented Steve Frisch, SBC president.
About Sierra Business Council
The Sierra Business Council serves the entire Sierra Nevada region. As a nonprofit association of more than 750 businesses, agencies, and individual members, Sierra Business Council is committed to promoting a new perspective on regional wealth while emphasizing collaboration in planning and policy making.
Learn more by visiting:
www.sbcouncil.org
####
September 22, 2008
From Velocity7
www.velocity7.com
CONTACT
Media: Pamela Biery pamela@velocity7.com, 530.470.9292 or 530.218.2027
Conference: Nikki Streegan nstreegan@sbcouncil.org, 530.582.4800
Details on High Sierra Energy: Rick Phelps, 760.934.4650, phelps@highsierraenergy.org
LOCALIZE ENERGY: Plug-In to LocaVolt Movement
Rick Phelps, Executive Director of the nonprofit High Sierra Energy Foundation, from Mammoth Lakes, California is one of the facilitators at Sierra Solutions conference in Mammoth Lakes, California October 3-4, 2008.
The High Sierra Energy Foundation has been working on transitioning Mammoth Lakes from its dependency on propane as a primary home-heat to geothermal energy, obtained locally. Currently about 75% of Mammoth Lakes heat source comes from propane—going to local energy would radically effect not only the emissions from the production and burning of propane, but the impact of moving the fuel to Mammoth and then delivery to each home’s fuel tank—the trickle down of energy loss gets converted to energy saved when the movement is made to a local energy distribution network.
The California Energy Commission approved a grant of $191,000 from the Geothermal Resource Development Account to the Town of Mammoth Lakes in 2006, which is now underway. “The grant facilitates developing a business model for a geothermal heating district in Mammoth Lakes,” stated Phelps. “Over the last 20 years there have been numerous technical studies confirming that there is hot water under Mammoth Lakes, but this is the first study that will generate a comprehensive business plan,” continued Phelps. “This project has the potential to become a model for local energy creation and distribution. Mammoth Lakes will be a showpiece for energy efficiency and responsible use of local resources.”
Dave Harvey, Board President of the High Sierra Energy Foundation pointed out “this CEC grant, combined with the recent Community Energy Partnership with Southern California Edison, puts the Foundation well on the way to fulfilling its mission of promoting and developing efficiency and renewables in the High Sierra.”
In fact, electric power production and transportation are the two largest sources of carbon emissions in the United States with California producing 47.24 metric tons of carbon dioxide per year. It qualifies as one of the biggest emitters in the United States.
Moving towards local economies and local energy sources is a powerful notion for saving energy, reducing carbon and building strong economies. Learn more about local energy generation, and other strategies for building resilient, sustainable communities in the Sierra—and how these practices apply to other regions by attending Sierra Solutions conference.
“The Sierra Nevada is a place that serves as a model for the rest of the nation – it is a place where we pursue a green economy, support valuable ecosystems, and design sustainable communities.”
Steve Frisch, Sierra Business Council
Solution-based tools, processes and opportunities for ensuring sustainable and vibrant Sierra communities, landscapes and local economies are the focus of this 2-day event in scenic Mammoth, California.
Conference details—Nikki Streegan 530.582.4800
www.sbcouncil.org/Events/Schedule
###### September 15, 2008
CONTACT
Media: Pamela Biery pamela@velocity7.com, 530.470.9292 or 530.218.2027
Conference: Nikki Streegan nstreegan@sbcouncil.org, 530.582.4800
Details on Fuels for Schools program: Dave Atkins, datkins@fs.fed.us
Out West: Biomass Energy Curbs Wildfires, Reduces Heating Cost
After the wildfires in the summer of 2000, which burned over 350,000 acres and 70 structures in the Bitterroot Valley of Montana, a resident of Darby, Montana began to research ways in which to tie fire hazard reduction work with economic development in the valley. Discovering that waste wood was being used to heat a number of schools in the northeastern U.S., this individual approached community leaders with the idea of using slash (tree limbs, tops and branches) from hazardous fuels reduction projects for heat in Darby’s schools. With the aid of a grant from the Economic Action Program and assistance from the Bitter Root RC&D, USDA Forest Service Forest Products Laboratory and the Biomass Energy Resource Center, a biomass boiler system was planned, designed and installed at Darby and began heating three schools in the fall of 2003.
Today, Fuels for Schools and Beyond is a recognized national leader in community biomass projects, moving into providing biomass energy for schools and private enterprise while maintaining healthy forests.
The Fuels for Schools and Beyond program is a partnership between the USDA Forest Service’s State & Private Forestry Division, the State Foresters of Montana, North Dakota, Idaho, Nevada, Utah and Wyoming, and the Bitter Root Resource Conservation and Development (RC&D) Area, Inc., to promote and facilitate the use of forest biomass waste for heating, cooling and power in public and private buildings.
These organizations are advancing local and national policies in biomass utilization, and ensuring the viability of the nation’s forests and communities.
There are currently 14 biomass boilers operating throughout North Dakota, Montana, Idaho and Nevada with two more in the design or construction phase. While continuing to provide support to existing projects, the program is now actively advancing “wood to energy” for private enterprise.
Dave Atkins, Fuels for Schools and Beyond Program Manager, from Missoula Montana, is one of the presenters at Sierra Solutions conference in Mammoth Lakes, California October 3-4, 2008.
Conference details—Nikki Streegan 530.582.4800
www.sbcouncil.org/Events/Schedule
###### September 15, 2008
SIERRA SOLUTIONS CONFERENCE BACKGROUNDER
ATTN: Environment, Energy, Conservation Policy, and Sierra Writers
CONTACT: Pamela Biery, pamela@velocity7.com, 530.218.2027
WHO: Sierra Business Council and the Sierra Nevada Conservancy present
Sierra Solutions Panelist and Presenters, including: - Eric Holst, Environmental Defense Fund
- Michelle Passero, Senior Climate and Policy Advisor, the Nature Conservancy
- John Nickerson, California Climate Action Registry
- Mary Tucker, Energy Program Manager, Office of Sustainability, City of San Jose-Environmental Services Department
- Portia Sinnott, Waste Reduction and Recycling Consultant and Green Mentor, Sonoma County
- Rick Phelps-High Sierra Energy Foundation
- Cheryl Belcher, Sierra Cascade Land Trust Council
- Cheri Chastain-Sierra Nevada Brewing Company
- Marcus Kauffman, Resource Innovations, University of Oregon
- Gareth Mayhead, Forest Products, University of California Berkeley
- Dave Atkins, Fuels for Schools Program Manager, Missoula Montana
- Katie McCamant and Chuck Durrett, Co-Housing Partners
- PK Agarwal, Director of Department of Technology Services, State of California
WHAT: Upcoming conference at Mammoth Lakes, California. Sierra Business Council and the Sierra Nevada Conservancy have organized a dynamic presentation, including leaders in new energy solutions, green economic integrated solutions and issues in climate change and environmental impact reduction.
The conference is the major conference of its type for the Sierra. Can we emphasize this here?
WHY NOW: This is an important moment to bring attention to the Sierra, resources and climate change impacts. The first sentence is awkward. The Sierra is a bellwether for climate change impacts. Leaders working on addressing these impacts through many disciplines are at the cutting edge of energy, conservation and integrated economic solutions for the United States.
ABOUT THE CONFERENCE:
SIERRA SOLUTIONS
Tools for Sustainable Communities, Economies and the Environment
October 3-4, 2008
Mammoth Resort Conference Center
Mammoth Lakes, CA
Hosted by The Sierra Business Council and the Sierra Nevada Conservancy, SIERRA SOLUTIONS highlights leading sustainability speakers, who believe, (does “who believe” lead off to the quote or to “Solutions” below? Check punctuation and capitalization)
“The Sierra Nevada is a place that serves as a model for the rest of the nation – it is a place where we pursue a green economy, support valuable ecosystems, and design sustainable communities.”
Steve Frisch, Sierra Business Council
Solution-based tools, processes and opportunities for ensuring sustainable and vibrant Sierra communities, landscapes and local economies are the focus of this 2-day event in scenic Mammoth, California.
CONTACT: Media—Pamela Biery 530.470.9292 or 530.218.2027
Conference details—Nikki Streegan 530.582.4800
www.sbcouncil.org/Events/Schedule
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