You are here: Home → RVCC → 2009 RVCC Annual Policy Meeting → 2009 RVCC Annual Policy Meeting

2009 RVCC Annual Policy Meeting

presents the

Ninth Western Annual Policy Meeting

December 7-9, 2009

View the Pre-meeting Survey Synthesis

View a draft meeting agenda (Updated Dec. 3, 2009)

View a list of confirmed participants

Final Logistics, FAQs and Directions to the Edgefield

Why an Annual Policy Meeting?

The Annual Policy Meeting (APM) is a working meeting at which participants define priority policy issues, messages and solutions. The meeting is designed to build on the work of the Rural Voices for Conservation Coalition (RVCC) working groups, our collective experiences over the last year and the synthesis of responses to pre-meeting survey questions, which will be completed by all participants. The purpose of the meeting is to work together to determine issues of shared importance and develop a plan of action for the coming year.

Annual Policy Meeting Goals:

Develop a platform of policy priorities to collectively advance in the national policy arena.
Provide an opportunity for western community-based natural resource management advocates to discuss issues and find common ground.
Develop key messages related to our policy priorities to communicate to Congress, the media, the agencies, the administration and interest groups.

Pre-meeting Survey

The pre-meeting survey or "homework" increases meeting effectiveness because it allows the organizers to gather opinions and insights on relevant issues before the group meets.Regardless of whether you can attend the APM, we would like all invited organizations to complete the pre-meeting survey. Meeting organizers will synthesize the homework responses and send it out to all participants prior to the meeting. The synthesis is designed to provide meeting participants with a way to jumpstart discussions, hopefully move beyond initial brainstorming, and maximize the valuable and limited time we have together. While all of the policy issues brought up by meeting participants are significant, it is important to prioritize those best suited for collective action. PDF of the 2009 pre-meeting survey questions for your reference.

View the Pre-meeting Survey Synthesis.

Where is the Meeting?

The meeting will take place at the Edgefield McMenamins in Troutdale, Oregon. The Edgefield is an amazing facility with many amenities including restaurants, bars, a movie theater, spa and a brand new soaking pool. The Edgefield is only 20 minutes from the Portland Airport. View lodging and venue information.

If you are unable to reserve a room at the Edgefield. There is a Best Western Cascade Inn and Suites two blocks away. To make a reservation call (503) 491-9700.

NEW Elements of this year's meeting

Poster Networking Session and Recognition Ceremony

Participants will have an opportunity to showcase programs or recent projects they have been working on and discuss issues they are passionate about. Individuals are invited to produce a poster or small display or simply bring materials to share their knowledge and network with others. View Poster Session Guidelines.

RVCC Talent Show

Want to help us make this year's meeting the most enjoyable yet? We will be hosting a talent show to display some of our participant's lesser known abilities. Individuals are welcome to sing, play an instrument, tell a story, or perform any other unique feat. All are encouraged to come watch and perform.