Come celebrate the release of Our Better Nature: Hopeful Excursions in Saving Biodiversity
June 15 from 6:00 to 7:30 pm | FREE
North Branch Nature Center

Learn why Bill McKibben writes, “This book could not be more timely, more charming, more useful, or more needed! Anyone who cares about our small and lovely state will want to spend time with it – its impact will spread beyond Vermont’s borders.”

A collaboration among Vermont conservation organizations and conservationists, this work, grounded in experience and science presents readers with stories, essays, and resources to guide and inspire action in favor of nature everywhere.

Dedicated to pioneering biologist and author Edward O. Wilson (1929–2021).

A lifelong observer of nature, E. O. Wilson noted what we all must: Of all the challenges facing the planet, the loss of biodiversity and the current extinction crisis are among the gravest. In the face of this, and in light of Wilson’s optimism in spite of it, Our Better Nature offers messages of hope.

• Stories of creative citizens whose successes with protecting and restoring nature are examples we can apply anywhere.
• Essays by regional experts who help us understand the power of resilient ecosystems, of nature education for all ages, and Vermont’s dedication to conservation science.
• Resources for turning our collective desire to protect biodiversity into actions that do.

At the event, you’ll hear readings from several contributors to the book – George Schenk, farmer and founder of American Flatbread, Tom Butler, Senior Fellow at the Northeast Wilderness Trust, Alicia Daniel, founder of the Vermont Master Naturalist Program, and Sean Beckett, Director of Natural History Programs at North Branch Nature Center.

You’ll also have the opportunity to purchase the book for $25 (by cash or check), get your book signed, see photographs from the book, and enjoy some refreshments. The event will conclude with a short biodiversity walk led by North Branch Nature Center staff. The first fifteen purchasers will receive a hand painted bookmark by George Schenk.

If the weather is nice, the program will be outside under a tent. If inclement, we’ll gather in the community room.

Sponsored by North Branch Nature Center, Northeast Wilderness Trust, Vermont Natural Resources Council, and Vermont Alliance for Half-Earth.

Dragonfly photo by Sean Beckett