KAEE 2024 Conference

Conference Presentation Proposal: Inspiring Change Through "This is the Ohio: Life, Death, and Rebirth of our Beautiful River"
Presented by: Dr. David Wicks
Introduction
This session will explore the transformative power of documentary filmmaking in environmental advocacy and community engagement. We will delve into Morgan Atkinson's documentary, "This is the Ohio: Life, Death, and Rebirth of our Beautiful River." This powerful film not only captures the essence of the Ohio River but also serves as a catalyst for several significant initiatives aimed at preserving and revitalizing this vital waterway.

About the Documentary
Morgan Atkinson, an award-winning filmmaker recognized with the Governor's Award for the Arts, brings to life the story of the Ohio River through his documentary. "This is the Ohio" offers a profound narrative that intertwines the river's ecological history, current challenges, and the hopeful efforts to restore its health and beauty. Morgan also directed Wonder; The Life of Anna and Harlan Hubbard.

Segments Viewing
We will start by viewing selected segments from the documentary, which highlight key aspects of the Ohio River's journey. These segments will set the stage for understanding the various initiatives inspired by the documentary.

Initiative 1: Ohio River Way
The first initiative we will discuss is the Ohio River Way, a collaborative effort with the National Park Service to designate the Ohio River as a national water trail. This initiative aims to enhance recreational opportunities, promote conservation, and boost local economies along the river. By establishing the Ohio River as a national water trail, we can ensure its protection and accessibility for future generations.

Initiative 2: Kentucky Ohio River Regional Recreation Authority (KORRA)
Next, we will explore the formation of the Kentucky Ohio River Regional Recreation Authority (KORRA), which was officially signed into law by Governor Brashear in April of this year. KORRA's mission is to develop and manage recreational facilities and activities along the Kentucky portion of the Ohio River, fostering community engagement and sustainable tourism. This initiative highlights the potential for regional cooperation in promoting environmental stewardship and economic development.

Initiative 3: Ohio River Ecological Restoration
Finally, we will discuss the Ohio River Ecological Restoration initiative, led by the National Wildlife Federation and the Ohio River Basin Alliance. This initiative focuses on comprehensive ecological restoration efforts to improve water quality, restore habitats, and enhance biodiversity along the river. The documentary plays a crucial role in raising awareness and garnering support for these vital restoration projects.

Initiative 4: Payne Hollow on the Ohio
Payne Hollow, the home of Anna and Harlan Hubbard, is a new educational facility in Trimble County that focuses on the confluence of Art, Culture and the Environment. It has been made possible in part by Morgan’s early movie Wonder.

Conclusion
Through the lens of "This is the Ohio," we witness the power of storytelling in inspiring action and fostering community engagement. Each of these initiatives—the Ohio River Way, KORRA, and the Ohio River Ecological Restoration—demonstrates a commitment to preserving the Ohio River's natural beauty and ecological integrity.
As we conclude this presentation, I encourage you to reflect on how we can leverage similar storytelling tools and collaborative efforts in our own communities. Together, we can create a ripple effect of positive change, ensuring a sustainable and vibrant future for our natural resources.
Q&A Session
We will now open the floor for questions and discussions.