WASHINGTON – A scheduled June 25th public listening session and discussion will provide an opportunity for leaders of the America's Great Outdoors Initiative to hear from people in the Chesapeake Bay region on solutions for building a 21st century conservation and recreation agenda and reconnecting people with the outdoors. In the Chesapeake region many citizens and organizations are already deeply involved in stewardship of these resources and in celebrating and enjoying the Chesapeake's outdoor heritage.
The America's Great Outdoors Initiative was established by President Obama in April at a White House Conference specifically to develop a conservation and recreation agenda worthy of the 21st century and to reconnect Americans with our great outdoors. To accomplish this goal, the Administration's effort will be community driven.
The Secretaries of the Interior and Agriculture, Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency and Chair of the Council on Environmental Quality have been asked by the President to lead this effort and to listen and learn from people all over the country. Listening sessions will engage a full range of stakeholders including tribal leaders, farmers and ranchers, sportsmen, community park groups, foresters, business people, educators, state and local governments and recreation and conservation groups.
WHO: Representatives from DOI, USDA, EPA, and CEQ will be present to hear your thoughts and to participate in a conversation with you about America's Great Outdoors.
WHAT: Opportunities to share your ideas in breakout groups along with presentations by senior officials from DOI, USDA, EPA, and CEQ and expert panel discussions.
WHEN: Friday, June 25th, 1:00 pm to 5:00 pm
WHERE: Maryland Hall for the Creative Arts, 801 Chase Street, Annapolis, Maryland 2140: http://www.marylandhall.org/generalinfo/mapdirections.html
Please Register: The event is free and open to the public, but please let us know if you will attend so we can plan accordingly. Register by 10 pm, Monday June 21 by sending your name, telephone number and primary area of interest:
• Working land and open space conservation
• Recreation and public access
• Citizen stewardship, including youth engagement and environmental education.
• General
You may register through: http://www.baygateways.net/AmericasGreatOutdoors/index.html or by sending an email to cindy_chance@partner.nps.gov.
For more information on the America's Great Outdoors Initiative and to submit comments on-line visit: www.doi.gov/americasgreatoutdoors/.
Source: Department of Interior
