Forest Gathering Films

From Forest to Policy through Story

Experience the incredible synergy of Tribal, local, regional, state, and federal leaders coming together in "Forest Gatherings." Our short films illustrate how our focus shifts when we start with the Indigenous leadership in a place. The films highlight the significance of connecting place-based decision making with state and federal policy and the power of networks to preserve and expand those connections.

Visit WSN Youtube Channel to View the Films

THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS

The emblem of U.S. Forest Service, Department of Agriculture, featuring a yellow border, green background, a large yellow pine tree in the center, and the words 'Forest Service' at the top and 'Department of Agriculture' at the bottom with the letters 'U' and 'S' on either side of the tree.

CELEBRATING OUR FOREST GATHERING FILMS PARTNERS

Announcement for the Forest Gathering Films Premiere showing logos of various partners including Watershed Solutions Network, California Department of Conservation, U.S. Forest Service, Mariposa County, California State Parks, Resource Conservation District, First Nations Development Institute, Climate Science Alliance, Condor Visual Media, and pGp.

Discover the Benefits of Forest Gatherings

Power of Collaboration

Witness how local Tribes and leaders harness collaboration to tackle pressing climate challenges. Our films showcase the power of strong networks and relationships in the support of bold action.

Place-Based Decision Making

Understand how a location's unique attributes influence effective management decisions. Our films emphasize the importance of integrating local knowledge into watershed and climate resilience strategies.

Building Trust and Understanding

See how Forest Gatherings foster trust and understanding among diverse participants. Our films focus on building relationships and finding common ground for sustainable and equitable solutions.

Pathways to Climate Resilience

Explore how shared values and interests can lead to innovative, locally informed pathways towards climate resilience. Our films provide insight into the effective relationship building necessary to connect local expertise with policy.

Group of people sitting in chairs and on the ground in a shallow creek among trees and greenery in a forest.

A black and white butterfly resting on a rocky surface near water.

An outdoor scene with two elderly women and two dogs near a house with a porch. One woman wears a blue t-shirt and shorts, holding a water bottle, while the other in a red top and hat holds a walking stick. The background features trees and a hillside.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the purpose of the Forest Gatherings films?

The films illustrate how Forest Gatherings build relationships between leaders from various levels of government and tribes, highlighting the importance of collaboration in managing local resources effectively.

Who hosts the Forest Gatherings?

The Gatherings are hosted by the local Tribe and local leaders, ensuring that the decision making process is informed by those who understand the land best. The WSN team scopes opportunities where Tribes and local leaders are willing to host and we support the event through facilitation, coordination, and logistics.

How can I get involved or support the initiative?

You can support Forest Gatherings by becoming a volunteer and/or donating to support future forest gatherings. Please contact us at info@watersolutionsnetwork.org to learn more about how you can contribute to this important cause and complete the Forest Gathering Interest Form.

When is the next Forest Gathering?

The next Forest Gathering will take place in April 2025 in eastern San Diego County hosted by the Kumeyaay Nation. If you are interested in learning more, please fill out our Forest Gathering Interest Form.

Are the films available for public viewing?

Yes, the films will be available for public viewing following the December 5th film premier.

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