Walpole, NH (August 25, 2022) – Radically Rural builds sustainability and success for rural life and places by building a network that connects people to each other and to new ideas. The annual Radically Rural Summit is divided into seven different program tracks that feature topics offering strategic opportunities for transformation in rural communities.

We are excited to once again organize the Land & Community Track at the the 2022 Radically Rural Summit, being offered as a live event in Keene or virtually, September 21-22nd, 2022.

The Land & Community Track will have three sessions:

Session 1: Grain Sheds:

September 21, 1:30 PM – 3:00 PM | Keene Public Library – Heberton Hall

Grainsheds are transforming rural economies while engaging community stakeholders across professions. Grainsheds build and connect regional grain supply chains to support local businesses and empower rural economies, they create cohesive networks that enhance collaboration between local growers, processors, and makers, while also increasing awareness and understanding of the value of region grains. This session provides a platform for speakers from different roles throughout the grainshed to share its impact, and to provide a toolkit for attendees to build and engage their regional grainshed.

Speakers: Emily Cayer, Northeast Grainshed Alliance; Andrea Stanley, maltster and miller, Valley Malt and Ground Up Grain; Lenny Bussanich, River Valley Community Grains; Barry Labendz, brewer, Kent Falls Brewing Co.; Sarah Cox, farmer, miller, and CSA, Tuckaway Farm; Hannah Smalls, outreach coordinator, The Northeast Grainshed Alliance; Shawn Gingue & Sara Gingue, owners, NEK Grains; Blair Marvin, baker & owner, Elmore Mountain Bread

Session 2: Climate Activism: Engaging Rural Youth –Collaborative Session with Clean Energy Track

September 21, 3:30 PM – 5:00 PM | Keene Public Library – Heberton Hall

As the impacts of climate change become apparent throughout rural life, now more than ever, it is time to act. In the past few years, youth climate activists have garnered worldwide attention for their commitment to our planet and our future. This panel will spotlight youth activists engaging rural communities.

Moderator: Anthea Lavallee, Executive Director of Hubbard Brook Research Foundation

Panelists: Phoebe Dolan, Co-Director of Maine Youth Power; Nikhil Chavda of 350NH; Nat Wood of Keene State College and the Emerging Leaders Collaborative

Session 3: Inclusive Outdoor Recreation

September 22, 2:00 PM – 3:30 PM | Keene Public Library – Heberton Hall

When you think of a hiker, skier, or camper, who do you picture? Due to historic discrimination outdoor spaces lack inclusivity. Through prioritizing inclusivity, safe spaces, and accessibility, these organizations work towards making the outdoors a welcoming place for all. Hear from panelists on the communities they serve, and the ways that they work to build inclusivity and engagement in rural and non-rural spaces.

Speakers: Ana Seiler, The Venture Out Project; Loren Penman, Commissioner, Genesee Region Parks

Ticket costs vary, register online at: https://registration.socio.events/e/radicallyrural2022

If you have questions regarding the Land & Community Track please email benee@cheshireconservation.org or call 603-756-2988 x3011.

The Cheshire County Conservation District promotes the conservation and responsible use of our natural and agricultural resources for the people of Cheshire County by providing technical, financial, and educational assistance. Our goal is to encourage the stewardship of healthy soils, productive ecologically sound farms, diverse wildlife, productive sustainable forests, healthy watersheds, and clean water to ensure those resources are available for future generations. Established in 1945, the Conservation District operates out of Walpole, NH where we work alongside the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service and other conservation partners. For more information, contact Amanda Littleton at 603-756-2988 ext.4 or email at amanda@cheshireconservation.org

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