The Environmental Center

Webcast: Wild & Scenic Rivers - The Art of Conservation
2020-11-11 | Deschutes Brewery Public House, 1044 NW Bond St, Bend, OR, 97701, United States
Ever wish you could capture the beauty of a wild forest stream and bring it into your daily life? Painter Robin Hostick offers a chance to do exactly that… turning discovery of beautiful rivers across Oregon into gorgeous oil-on-canvas paintings that capture each stream’s unique nature.
As Oregon Wild works to expand Wild & Scenic River protections in Oregon, Robin is launching a campaign with Oregon Wild to raise awareness – and funds – for these protections. Most importantly, he’s bringing his process and his art into your home at this webcast!
Join for a look inside the creation of six special paintings and a discussion about what wild rivers mean to all of us.

Native American Heritage Month Events
2020-11-18
In honor of Native American Heritage Month, please join upcoming virtual events hosted by the Papalaxsimisha program.
Nov 18: Hunting Regulations and Climate Change with Wildlife Biologist, Austin Smith Jr.

Virtual Lecture: A Storm of Stars – The Life Story of the Milky Way
2020-11-23
This virtual lecture will be presented by Dr. Shane Larson, Research Associate Professor of Physics at Northwestern University, where he is the Associate Director of CIERA (Center for Interdisciplinary Exploration and Research in Astrophysics). He works in the field of gravitational wave astrophysics, specializing in studies of compact stars, binaries, and the galaxy. He works in gravitational wave astronomy with both the ground-based LIGO project, and the future space-based detector LISA.

Native American Heritage Month events
2020-11-25
In honor of Native American Heritage Month, please join upcoming virtual events hosted by the Papalaxsimisha program.
Nov 25: Language Presentation

The Bioneers 2020 Conference: Beyond the Great Unraveling: Weaving the World Anew.
2020-12-05 - 2020-12-06, 2020-12-12 - 2020-12-13
Bioneers is excited to introduce the 2020 Bioneers Conference: a virtual gathering encapsulating the magic of our annual live conference.
This year’s theme is “Beyond the Great Unraveling: Weaving the World Anew.” As we enter into a permanent emergency, it’s much easier to see what’s dying than what’s being born. But since the beginning, Bioneers has been about what’s being born. They’ll be showcasing many of the most visionary and practical solutions afoot today, and many of our greatest visionary innovators, including the greatest people you’ve never heard of.

OLCV Book Club: Flight Behavior
2020-12-08
Flight Behavior is a novel about a woman in Appalachia who discovers a strange migration of butterflies in her backyard, and learns how this sign of a changing climate will affect her life and her rural community. Barbara Kingsolver is a renowned literary fiction writer known for tying environmental themes into much of her work.
Whether or not you’ve joined for OLCV’s past two book club meetings (for The Overstory and Saving Big Creek), we hope you’ll join this time around! Everyone is welcome!

COVID 19 Impact Webinar: New Metrics and the State of our Health
2020-12-09
On Dec. 1, Governor Brown announced updates to county risk levels under Oregon’s new public health framework to reduce transmission of COVID-19. The framework uses four different risk levels based on COVID-19 spread — Extreme, High, Moderate, and Lower — and assigns health and safety measures for each. See details here.
Join to hear from Dr. Dean Sidelinger, the State Health Officer and Epidemiologist, and Emily Freeland, Environmental Health Specialist, Deschutes County Public Health Department as they discuss:
• New restrictions on businesses and gatherings in Deschutes County
• Metrics and protocols for moving from one tier to the next
• Case counts and the impact on St. Charles ICU and hospital
• New COVID-19 vaccine — number of doses expected to be available, how safe and effective they are along with protocols and plans for distribution
A Q&A session will follow.

Snowshoeing Central Oregon presentation
2020-12-09
Join Oregon Wild for a presentation on how and where to snowshoe, with a focus on Central Oregon. They’ll share tips and suggestions regarding everything from safety to gear to picking the most scenic trails. They’ll also include some “Snowshoeing 101” for those new to the activity as well as some tips on locations that would be applicable to all ability levels. The presentation will include:
• Photography of recommended scenic snowshoeing destinations in central Oregon
• The basics of learning to snowshoe
• Reference map
• What to bring
• How to be safe when snowshoeing
• Gear (snowshoes and clothing)
We hope to see you there!

Ready, Set, Plan?! Webinar
2020-12-16
Oregon Trails Coalition is working on an introductory guide to trail planning and decision-making with support from the Bureau of Land Management and Oregon Parks and Recreation Department.
Join for this introduction to trail planning and give them feedback on what you would find helpful in the final digital guide.

Community conversation on youth mental health
2020-12-17
As we head into winter break and our 8th month living in a global pandemic, mental health and wellness is top of mind. What are the mental health concerns facing our young people? How can we promote mental wellness during such an isolating time?
Join Camp Fire of Central Oregon to share ideas around these and other pressing questions regarding youth and mental health.

2020 SAGE: Stories of Resilience (Episode 1)
2020-12-17
Register and be among the first to watch episode 1 of the 2020 SAGE: “Stories of Resilience” Campaign! Powered by US Bank, this video series will shine a light on accounts of survival and innovation, told by our local Central Oregon business community, as they weather a global pandemic.
Featured companies:
– Collective Pallet
– Mosaic Medical
– Broken Top Candle Co
– Guardian Group
– Heartwarmers
– Holiday Inn Express South Bend
– Pine Mountain Sports
– Red Cross
– St. Charles
– Tower Theatre
– Webfoot

Snowshoeing Northwest Oregon
2021-01-06
New Year, New Adventures!
Oregon Wild snowshoeing presentation was such a success they’re hosting another presentation, this time focused on Northwest Oregon. Oregon Wild’s Wilderness Campaign Coordinator Erik Fernandez will have tips and suggestions regarding everything from safety to gear to picking the most scenic trails. Included will be “Snowshoeing 101” for those new to the activity as well as some tips on locations in the Portland-area and Northwest Oregon area that would be applicable to all ability levels. The presentation will include:

Photography of recommended scenic snowshoeing destinations in Northwest Oregon
The basics of learning to snowshoe
Reference map
What to bring
How to be safe when snowshoeing
Gear (snowshoes and clothing)
End of session Q&A

2020 SAGE: Stories of Resilience (Episode 2)
2021-01-07
Register and be among the first to watch episode 2 of the 2020 SAGE: “Stories of Resilience” Campaign! Powered by US Bank, this video series will shine a light on accounts of survival and innovation, told by our local Central Oregon business community, as they weather a global pandemic.
Featured companies:
– Aperion Management Group
– Baptista Tile Company
– Heart of Oregon Corps
– Leading Edge Aviation
– Northwestern Home Loans
– Redmond Proficiency Academy
– Shift
– The Haven
– Wren and Wild
– Crux Fermentation
– Humm Kombucha
– OSU-Cascades

2020 SAGE: Stories of Resilience (Episode 3)
2021-01-14
Register and be among the first to watch episode 3 of the 2020 SAGE: “Stories of Resilience” Campaign! Powered by US Bank, this video series will shine a light on accounts of survival and innovation, told by our local Central Oregon business community, as they weather a global pandemic.
Featured companies:
– Bunk and Brew
– Cascade Relays
– Furnish Hope
– Production Prints
– MountainStar
– Shepherd’s House Ministries
– The Bulletin
– The Yoga Lab
– Touchmark at Mount Bachelor Village
– Volunteers in Medicine
– Central Oregon Veterans Ranch

Bend Chamber Webinar Series: Homelessness Impact and Assistance
2021-01-19
Join the Bend Chamber and panel of experts they discuss the issues our community is facing surrounding the topic of homelessness.
Colleen Thomas: Deschutes County Homeless Services Coordinator
Carolyn Eagan: Economic Development Director for the City of Bend
Cheri Helt: Former State Representative
John Lodise: Director of Emergency Services at Shepherd’s House Ministries

Native Story Hour
2021-01-20
Join Karen Kitchen (Osage Nation) for this story hour featuring songs and books from Native cultures.
Sing, listen, learn, and celebrate. Join Karen Kitchen (Osage Nation) for this story hour featuring songs and books from Native cultures. Children, families, elders, aunties and uncles — everyone is welcome.
Made possible by The Library Foundation through support from The Confederated Tribes of the Grand Ronde Fund.
All abilities are welcome. For disability accommodations, call 503.988.5123 or email help@multcolib.org 2-3 days before a program.

Webcast: Canines for Conservation
2021-01-27
Join Oregon Wild and learn about the remarkable Rogue Detection Teams, rescued dogs and field researchers help scientists tackle important conservation concerns – like collecting data on endangered species through scat detection in remote locations.

Oregon Trails Funding Opportunities Webinar
2021-02-04
How do trail projects in Oregon get funded? Learn more about upcoming opportunities and recent success stories.

About this Event

Learn about grant programs and other funding opportunities for trails in Oregon as well as hear a case study for how the City of Portland and Friends of Gateway Green put a variety of funding sources together to develop a site in East Portland with a system of soft-surface and paved multi-use trails and pump track.

Know Place - Habitat Restoration & Upper Deschutes Watershed Council
2021-02-04
Staff from the Upper Deschutes Watershed Council will give a presentation about the work done by a watershed council and the types of programs and services they provide to Central Oregon. Presenters will give a brief overview of their restoration, monitoring and education programs and also share some of the highlights and stories about specific projects completed in recent years along Whychus Creek that flows through the community of Sisters, Oregon.

Webcast: A First Look at Oregon's River Democracy Act
2021-02-10
Senators Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley introduced the Oregon River Democracy Act of 2021 to better protect clean drinking water sources, recreational opportunities, and wildlife habitat. This historic bill proposes expanding Oregon’s network of Wild & Scenic Rivers by nearly 4,700 miles and would protect segments of numerous key rivers across the state, from the desert streams of Owyhee country to the roaring rivers of the Coast Range.

This legislation is the result of a groundbreaking grassroots nomination, multi-year vetting process, and the work of hundreds of activists and river enthusiasts cheerleading for their backyard rivers, drinking watersheds, fishing holes, hiking trails, kayak routes, and love of the wildlands and rivers of Oregon.
Join Oregon Wild and the Oregon Natural Desert Association give an overview of this incredible legislation and the historic opportunity it presents to protect our rivers as a legacy for future generations.

Celebrating Black History Month with Arielle Estoria
2021-02-12
In recognition of Black History Month COCC is honored to welcome MOsley WOtta, Arielle Estoria, and Dr. Doug Luffborough to share stories of black triumph. Through poetry and storytelling we will celebrate the past and present triumphs of the black community while continuing our efforts to challenge oppressive systems and strive toward a more equitable future.
Arielle Estoria is a renowned poet, author, speaker, and emcee who emphasizes the gift of each individual. Arielle uses her words and storytelling to help others unlock their gifts and find beauty in themselves.

Webcast: Breaking Ground on the Blue Mountains Trail
2021-02-17
Oregon’s Blue Mountains region contains some of the most rugged, diverse, and remote landscapes in the state. Join Oregon Wild for a presentation on the new 566-mile trail that connects Joseph to John Day and traverses all seven wilderness areas in Northeast Oregon.

Nature Night-The Importance of Insects
2021-02-17
Insects play major roles in keeping the natural world healthy and functioning. Not only do they feed (and eat) many other animals, but insects also cycle nutrients, aerate soil, decompose decaying matter, and help pollinate over 80% of the world’s flowering plants, including many of our crops. Despite their importance, recent evidence suggests that between 10-40% of insects are at risk of disappearing. These declines are most clearly documented in charismatic insects such as butterflies, bumble bees, and tiger beetles. Join Deschutes Land Trust and Dr. Tara Cornelisse for a talk on the importance of insects in the natural world. Dr. Cornelisse will share details on the role that insects play in nature, major challenges that insects face, and the stories of some rare and some common insects you are likely to encounter in Central Oregon. Dr. Cornelisse will also offer actions you can take to enjoy and protect insects in your own backyard.
***This virtual event is free and registration is required. Registration for this event will open on January 17th.***

Celebrating Black History Month with Dr. Doug Luffborough (Dr. Luff)
2021-02-23
In recognition of Black History Month COCC is honored to welcome MOsley WOtta, Arielle Estoria, and Dr. Doug Luffborough to share stories of black triumph. Through poetry and storytelling we will celebrate the past and present triumphs of the black community while continuing our efforts to challenge oppressive systems and strive toward a more equitable future.
Dr. Doug Luffborough (Dr. Luff) overcame fatherlessness, homelessness, and unjust systems to be the first in his family to attend college. Chosen by his class at Northeastern University to be the commencement speaker, he thoroughly impressed one attendee in particular, President Bill Clinton. President Clinton invited Dr. Luff and his mother to the White House where he promised to write a letter of recommendation for Luff’s application to a Harvard Graduate program. Dr. Luff then went on to the University of San Diego where he received his Ph.D. in Leadership studies.

Summer Camping Opportunities
2021-02-23
Oregon Parks Forever would like share that summer camping opportunities are still available! While you may be frustrated that some of the most popular sites got booked quickly when the reservation window in State Parks was expanded to six months in advance, there are still plenty of other places you can camp and enjoy our gorgeous state. Join representatives of the Oregon Parks & Recreation Department, the US Forest Service and the Bureau of Land Management talk about other options available to you to enjoy your summer adventure!

Virtual Lecture: Einstein, Eddington, and the Challenges of Observational Astronomy
2021-02-25
In December 2020, Paul Poncy, observatory staff astronomer, traveled to Chile to help conduct an experiment during the solar eclipse. In partnership with scientists from Portland Community College and the Oregon NASA Space Grant Consortium, the group set out to conduct a modern version of the Eddington experiment – an observational test of General Relativity that was first conducted in 1919 and led to support of Albert Einstein’s theory. The goal of the experiment was to use modern day cameras and equipment to reproduce more accurate data; in the end however, weather conditions prevented data collection during the actual event. During this lecture Paul will share his experience preparing for the experiment, traveling to Chile, and future plans for this experiment.

Get The Girls Out | Celebrate International Women's Day
2021-03-05 - 2021-03-07
In celebration of International Women’s Day, SheJumps is hosting a FREE, virtual scavenger hunt to get women and girls outside.

About this Event

This year for International Women’s Day, SheJumps is bringing their signature Get the Girls Out! program to women and girls everywhere. A global initiative to encourage outdoor play, Get the Girls Out! on March 5-7, 2021 is a free virtual event that inspires and encourages participants to get outside through fun challenges that can be accomplished anywhere. Regardless of age, ability, geographic location, or experience in the outdoors, Get the Girls Out! celebrates the power of nature to uplift and inspire.

Deschutes County Virtual Town Hall
2021-03-06
Join Rep. Jason Kropf and Commissioner Phil Chang for a town hall discussion about our county and state. This will be a great opportunity for Bend residents and constituents to learn more about the legislative process, ask questions, and discuss the issues that impact our communities in Deschutes County and all of Oregon.
The event will be hosted via Zoom on Saturday, March 6 at 11 a.m. Spanish language interpretation will be available during the event. Pre-registration is required.
Link can be found in English here: https://form.jotform.com/repjasonkropf/register_townhall
Enlace se puede encontrar en Español aquí: https://form.jotform.com/repjasonkropf/regstrese-a-la-reunion-municipal.

International Women’s Day: Honoring Indigenous Women as Change-makers in Indigenous Peoples’ Food Systems
2021-03-08
In Canada and the United States, there are approximately 4.9 million Indigenous women. They are central in their cultures and societies as leaders and knowledge holders. Indigenous women’s leadership in fields including policy, law, medicine, food systems, research, land stewardship, nutritional health and food sovereignty are setting the course for current and future generations.
On International Women’s Day, join the FAO Liaison Office for North America and the Indigenous Peoples Unit for a webinar honoring Indigenous women of North America as change-makers in their work to achieve zero hunger and end malnutrition for their communities and globally.
