21

April 21, 2023 | 6:30 pm

Rose Room | Rose Wagner Performing Arts Center

Open to the public - no ticket required

  One of the biggest concerns to anyone living in the Salt Lake Valley is the loss of the Great Salt Lake and the threat that ecosystem collapse poses to our health. We are also concerned about the loss of other vital wilderness spaces like the Bears Ears region that preserves thousands of years of spiritual and cultural wealth. From a broader perspective, we are concerned about the loss of valuable lands that support, inspire, and provide solace to all. RDT invites experts for a discussion of the cultural significance of our landscape and the challenges we face in protecting it.

• Carly Biedul is the Great Salt Lake Institute Coordinator and her work there includes mentoring students with Great Salt Lake related research, developing student outreach efforts and designing interdisciplinary projects. Carly’s undergraduate background is in Ecology and Evolutionary Biology and she was most recently an Elementary Science Specialist while she completed her MEd at Westminster. She is passionate about education as a tool for conservation and connecting with the environment.
• Laura Peterson has been a Staff Attorney for Southern Utah Wilderness Alliance since 2013. Her practice focuses on off-road vehicle management, cultural resource preservation, national monument defense, and government transparency. She holds a bachelor’s degree from University of Michigan and a J.D. from American University, Washington College of Law.
• Davis Filfred joined and has been Board Chair for the Utah Diné Bikéyah since 2019. Davis served in the United States Marine Corps from 1990 to 1994. In 2006 he was elected into the legislative body of the Navajo Nation Government as a Navajo Nation Council Delegate. Chairman Filfred has advocated for Native American rights and continues to ensure the goals of Utah Diné Bikéyah with protecting and preserving traditions, culture, and language.

  Each of the proposed experts listed above offer a different perspective on the landscape and will provide an informed discussion of land, water, and cultural preservation. RSVP is appreciated.