In 1903, Theodore Roosevelt joined John Muir on a journey into the California wilderness to, in Roosevelt’s words, “drop politics absolutely and just be out in the open.” This humble camping trip would become a catalyst for many advancements in conservation, including the creation of multiple national parks and the protection of monuments, bird sanctuaries, wildlife refuges, and national forests.

Though momentous, the work of these historical icons is marred by their racism. The past century has shown us the costs of mismanaging natural resources and marginalizing crucial voices in land stewardship. We are overdue for a renewed meeting of political and philosophical minds that reexamines and improves upon the conversation, ushering conservationism into a new era that is more inclusive and justice-minded.

On September 9, 2021, join naturalist, artist, and bestselling author Obi Kaufmann (The California Field Atlas, The Forests of California) and Wade Crowfoot, California’s Secretary of Natural Resources, as they follow in the footsteps of Muir and Roosevelt with a revitalized perspective on environmentalism and the future of California. On a camping trip in the Sierra Buttes, the pair will explore California’s nature and engage in deep conversation on urgent topics, including wildfires, water shortage, climate change, and an action plan to be better stewards of the Golden State’s biodiversity.

When a naturalist with a breathtaking artistic vision and a political pragmatist with 19,000 employees and a four billion dollar budget come together to solve pressing issues of California’s lands, where do they begin? As Muir said, “The clearest way into the universe is through a forest wilderness.”

Live Q&A with attendees following the event.

FOR THOSE WHO CAN’T MAKE THE LIVE EVENT: If you can’t make the live program at 7 pm, you can still join Obi and Wade on their walk – but you need to register now!