Speakers

Northwest Straits Marine Conservation Foundation does coastal restoration work in Whatcom County and NW WA. We're a 25-year-old organization whose mission is restore local marine environment for marine life, public enjoyment and education. We have a graduate student scholarship program, a coastal fish monitoring program, a derelict gear retrieval program (lost crab pots), and a shoreline stewardship program for homeowners and local government.

“What Is Normal Aging vs. Early-Stage Dementia—and What You Can Do If You’re Worried.” This session will help clarify the differences between typical age related changes and the early warning signs of dementia. We’ll explore how memory, thinking, and behavior naturally shift over time, what may signal something more concerning, and practical steps to take if you’re worried about yourself or a loved one. The presentation is designed to be approachable, informative, and empowering, offering guidance on when to seek evaluation, how to start conversations, and local resources that can help.

Camp Fire Samish owns and operates Camp Kirby, a youth-serving camp located on Samish Island. Camp Kirby has served young people in Whatcom and Skagit counties for over 100 years. Executive Director Marcus Roskamp will share about the programs at Camp Kirby, why Camp Kirby is technology-free, the challenges they see young people facing today, and how outdoor-based programs can be part of the solution.

 

Geothermal power and broadband infrastructure

Geothermal power and broadband infrastructure

Rachel Vasak serves as the Executive Director of the Whatcom Land Trust (WLT), bringing experience in geology, non-profit leadership, and environmental conservation to the organization. She is a passionate advocate for salmon recovery as well as preserving critical areas, natural landscapes and agricultural lands of Whatcom County. Rachel will be presenting a talk summarizing the Whatcom Land Trust's history and efforts to conserve and steward vital lands, protecting everything from productive farms to critical wildlife habitats and public access areas. The presentation will detail WLT's recent successes and ongoing projects, and will conclude with actionable ways community members can get involved to help ensure the long-term health of Whatcom County’s natural resources.