Yesterday I did a practice run through of my Oakmont Symposium presentation Sunday. I learned that the organizers Gabriel Campbell and Judie Coleman are both powerhouses and Bob Boucher’s talk about flooding in Milwaukee is going to knock your socks off. I had to laugh initially when I saw that the website had accidentally shortened the title of the talk to “Spend valentine’s day with the conservationists who mate”. HAHA. As in we are the only ones who get to, Other conservationists can only dream about mating. Smile. I was also encouraged to share the link to the talk with friends and family so consider yourselves all invited. Click on the image to go to the talk at 10:30 Valentine’s morning. And if you’re busy sipping champagne and oysters with your beloved that morning I’m told that it will be recorded and made available for viewing later.
This morning we get treated to an excellent letter from Renee Espenel from Portland. It is lovingly tited
Letter: Beavers are essential
I am writing today to thank state Rep. Pam Marsh and Rep. Rob Nosse, and state Sen. Chris Gorsek, for representing the Beaver State and sponsoring House Bill 2844, which would remove the predatory animal designation from beavers in Oregon.
HB 2844 would allow ODFW to issue permits, regulate management and give the state an opportunity to collect valuable data on beaver populations and their impact on a healthy environment and ecosystem.
Beavers are essential in creating wetlands and habitat for salmon, and we are just now realizing their potential effect in improving fire resiliency, capturing carbon and improving the quality of our drinking water.
Can I get an Amen? Well said Renee! We are happy that lots of Oregonians are noticing that beavers matter to more than trapping interests.
Changing how we manage this species, would benefit Oregonians and ensure a sustainable and healthy ecosystem for generations to come. Please reach out to your legislatures and ask that they support HB 2844.
Just remember. We’re not Gods. We don’t need to change everyone’s mind. Just the minds of the people that drink water and don’t want their homes to burn,
That should do it.
