2024 Investing in the Ecosystem Conference Track:

People

About this Track

People power the outdoor economy. Explore the vital role of individuals in the outdoor economy, from broadening the base of outdoor buyers and leaders, to bringing in new champions and allies, attracting and keeping next-generation talent, and effectively engaging the diverse populations that contribute to a thriving ecosystem.

Topics for This Track include:

  • Next Gen Leadership

  • Public and Private Sector Partnerships

  • Creating New Customers, Employees, and Stewards

Speakers for this Track Include:

  • Sam Evans, Senior Lawyer & Leader, Southern Environmental Law Center National Forest and Parks Program
  • Ta Enos, Founder & CEO, PA Wilds Center for Entrepreneurship
  • James Melonas, Forest Supervisor, NC National Forests
  • Jay Leutze, Senior Board Advisor, Southern Appalachian Highlands Conservancy
  • Reid Wilson, NC Department of Natural and Cultural Resources
  • Michelle Wells, MPA, CPRP, Executive Director, North Carolina Parks Recreation and Parks Association
  • Mark Shelley, Eastern Field Program Director, National Forest Foundation
  • Lisa Jennings, Natural Resource Specialist; Grandfather Ranger District; Program Coordinator, Grandfather Restoration Project, U.S. Forest Service
  • Erin McCombs, Southeast Conservation Director, American Rivers
  • Jennifer Bennet, Project Manager, Duke Energy
  • Nate Hulabka, NC Pandemic Recovery Office
  • Bill Holman, Conservation Fund
  • Brent Anslinger, Outdoor Recreation Program Manager, Five Rivers MetroParks
  • Greg Williams, Executive Director, Sierra Buttes Trail Stewardship
  • Kim Williams, Senior Recreation and Environmental Planner, Equinox Environmental

Early Bird Ticket Pricing ends August 16th!

Conference Schedule

COMING SOON

The past year has been life changing, not just for us as individuals, but for our communities, economies, and the outdoor industry as a whole. The need to grow and strengthen our respective outdoor economies is more relevant than ever. 

Since its inception, Outdoor Economy Conference has provided an invaluable opportunity to connect with, learn from, and be inspired by the leaders and doers who are working to grow the outdoor industry and craft an economy that’s intimately tied to the well-being of their places and communities.

This year’s conference is no exception. Our team is passionate about their work and has been busy crafting an amazing program centered around place driven community and economic development.

Did we mention that the conference is in the legendary outdoor playground that is Western North Carolina? You’ll be just 5 minutes from the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, 5 minutes from some of the country’s most epic mountain biking, and within walking distance of fantastic fly fishing.

Maybe you’re more of a luxe digs sort of person – well, we’ve got that too. The Outdoor Economy Conference will be one of the first events at the swanky, newly-constructed, Harrah’s Cherokee Event Center. And the room rates are crazy good. Oh, and it’s also during those magical first weeks of spring, when the trillium and the trout are popping. So what are you waiting for? Register now! 

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4th Annual Conference Tracks: "Stewards of Opportunity"

People

Communities

Businesses

The Natural World

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harrah's cherokee conference center

777 Casino Dr. Cherokee, NC 28719

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