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YMCA of the Rockies Estes Park, Colorado

Join National Geographic photographer and filmmaker, Ami Vitale at the Pathways: Human Dimensions of Wildlife conference. This is a conference and training program designed to address the myriad issues that arise as people and wildlife struggle to coexist in a sustainable and healthy manner.

This year’s theme is: “Appreciating Nature’s Benefits”
The recreational participant base has changed over time, and, in turn, the popularity of outdoor recreation activities is shifting. Historically, a space that has been focused on hunting and angling, now includes activities such as birding and wildlife viewing, hiking, and rock climbing as popular avenues to engage in natural areas and on public lands. As interest in these activities continues to grow, wildlife agency leadership needs to adapt to help diverse communities connect with and appreciate nature’s benefits in both new and traditional forms of engagement. This year’s theme, Appreciating Nature’s Benefits, focuses on the health and well-being aspects of connecting with nature, and the benefits that communities gain from engaging in outdoor activities. Among other topics, this year’s conference will explore complex issues in wildlife management, use of social science, effective communication, and changing landscapes and seascapes due to climate change and land use management practices. Why: Our mission is to increase professionalism and effectiveness in the Human Dimensions of Wildlife Management field. We invite you to join us in this critical wildlife conservation effort. About the Conference: Pathways 2025 is a part of the Pathways: Human Dimensions of Wildlife Conference and Training series. Founded by Prof. Michael J. Manfredo and Prof. Jerry Vaske (Colorado State University), the program is designed to address the myriad issues that arise as people and wildlife learn to coexist. Pathways 2025 marks the 15th iteration of the conference.

The mission of this conference is to increase professionalism and effectiveness in the Human Dimensions of Wildlife Management field. We invite you to join us in this critical wildlife conservation effort.

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