Annual Summit 2024

AMC members in good standing attending the Annual Summit in person can vote for the 2024 AMC Board of Directors and officers at the Business Meeting. Members who receive AMC emails will be sent a link to vote electronically in early January. Electronic voting ends at midnight on January 17, 2024.

Forestry work has long been misunderstood and sidelined throughout its 400-year history in Maine. As Maine's forests come under threat from development and climate change, their significance as a bastion of ecological integrity and as a critical resource to build a more carbon-friendly world increases. Forest workers find themselves yet again at the forefront of technological change and environmental stewardship in an uncertain world, a position they have long held with little recognition. This talk will explore the history of woods labor and its place in rural Maine to help explain how we arrived at this moment and the role land conservation can play in providing new opportunities for these communities. Presenter: Steve Tatko, VP of Land, Research, and Trails

Are you ready to share your passion and knowledge by connecting people to the outdoors? Deepen your involvement by sharing your skills, speaking up for conservation, and helping folks to feel welcome while recreating outside. This session will help connect you to the information and people you need to understand how to start taking your first steps as an AMC Volunteer Leader! Presenter: Colby Meehan, Director of Leadership Outdoors

This workshop is designed to empower individuals to become effective change agents and facilitators in their organizations. Participants will gain valuable tools and strategies to lead conversations and actions aligned with the organization's diversity initiatives. We will focus on how to navigate the process of fostering belonging while also managing personal well-being. Key areas covered include bystander intervention, de-escalation training, personal boundary setting, and self-management resources. This workshop equips participants with the essential skills to inspire action and promote inclusivity within their own organization.

Presenter: DEI Outdoors

Although many women hikers and guides came before them, women started working at AMC huts and lodges for the first time during World War II and have not stopped breaking barriers since. The first all-women hut croo were at Lonesome Lake in 1979, the same year the first female research director led our science efforts. AMC’s first female CEO broke the glass ceiling in 2022. In this cross-cutting session, we will hear from women who are leading conservation efforts today at AMC, including our science, outreach and communications, volunteer engagement, trails, and chapter activities. In a panel discussion, we will share stories of how our experiences have shaped our perspectives and help make our work more relevant to the expanding community of women in the outdoors. Presenter: Sarah Nelson, Director of Research; Jesse Jameson, Associate Philanthropy Officer

The ability to apply basic backcountry first aid is vital for any outdoor enthusiast. This course teaches the skills necessary to identify and treat medical issues common to wilderness settings and to prepare for long-term care scenarios. Includes hands-on practice and lectures. Upon completion, participants receive 16-hour SOLO Wilderness First Aid certification. This course may be used to recertify a current SOLO Wilderness First Responder (WFR) certification. An optional CPR certification will be offered in the evening. Please note that this workshop is not included in the Summit registration. Click here to add on this registration. Your workshop registration includes Summit registration; you will not need to return to this page to register for the Annual Summit separately.
Presenter: Lisa Schott, Manager of Leadership Training

As we approach the midpoint of our own century’s “Roaring Twenties,” let’s look back at AMC when it was still a bright young thing. In this engaging illustrated program, we’ll explore what AMC was like in the 1920s, what we’ve left by the wayside, and traditions that have carried on to the present. The emergence of rock climbing and whitewater paddling, 100-mile walks, lots of new Chapters and Camps, and a sense of change and opportunity marked this decade. In words and pictures, AMC Archivist Becky Fullerton will illuminate the character of the club as it was one hundred years ago. Presenter: Becky Fullerton, Librarian & Archivist

Please note that this workshop is not included in the Summit registration. Click here to add on this registration. Your workshop registration includes Summit registration; you will not need to return to this page to register for the Annual Summit separately. Presenter: Bill Fogel

From the trailhead to the boardroom, from town hall to Capitol Hill, AMC’s conservation mission unites us all. With climate change and biodiversity loss at our doorstep, the time is now to engage more people in protecting the mountains, rivers, forests, and trails of our region. Join us for an interactive workshop exploring our conservation story, featuring YOU. Presenter: Mark Zakutansky, Director of Conservation Policy Engagement

Even outdoor enthusiasts who have been packing for personal trips for years can have a hard time figuring out how their packing strategies need to shift when they step into a trip leader role. Join us to hear from seasoned leaders to learn about their go-to items, and what they’ve cut out or added to their pack. They’ve done the trial and error, so you don’t have to! Presenter: Colby Meehan, Director of Leadership Outdoors

This workshop is designed to empower individuals to become effective change agents and facilitators in their organizations. Participants will gain valuable tools and strategies to lead conversations and actions aligned with the organization's diversity initiatives. We will focus on how to navigate the process of fostering belonging while also managing personal well-being. Key areas covered include bystander intervention, de-escalation training, personal boundary setting, and self-management resources. This workshop equips participants with the essential skills to inspire action and promote inclusivity within their own organization.

Presenter: DEI Outdoors

The Highlands Trail is part of a larger vision to develop a trail network through the entire four-state Mid-Atlantic Highlands Region (CT, NY, NJ, and PA). As a part of this initiative, AMC staff and partners recently published an assessment and interactive map for a portion of the Highlands Trail which explored opportunities to better accommodate users with varying sets of abilities and investigated systemic barriers to trail access for environmental justice communities adjacent to the trail network. The Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) was established by Congress in 1964 to fulfill a bipartisan commitment to safeguard natural areas, water resources, and cultural heritage, and to provide recreation opportunities to all Americans. AMC staff will discuss how LWCF dollars can support accessible trails, using the Equity and Accessibility Assessment as an example project. Presenter: Caitlyn Handlin, Trails Coordinator

The ability to apply basic backcountry first aid is vital for any outdoor enthusiast. This course teaches the skills necessary to identify and treat medical issues common to wilderness settings and to prepare for long-term care scenarios. Includes hands-on practice and lectures. Upon completion, participants receive 16-hour SOLO Wilderness First Aid certification. This course may be used to recertify a current SOLO Wilderness First Responder (WFR) certification. An optional CPR certification will be offered in the evening. Please note that this workshop is not included in the Summit registration. Click here to add on this registration. Your workshop registration includes Summit registration; you will not need to return to this page to register for the Annual Summit separately.
Presenter: Lisa Schott, Manager of Leadership Training

Presenter: Galen Staats, Guided Outdoors Youth Program Manager

In the heart of Maine's wilderness, where gravel roads meet the starry skies, visitors can immerse themselves in the landscape. Not only has AMC protected the natural wonders, but it has unlocked a treasury of amazing recreational experiences that invites people to forge their own connections to the land. Discover new recreational opportunities in the stars, at the end of your fishing pole, through your binoculars, and on your bike. Presenter: Jenny Ward, Director of Brand Experience

Please note that this workshop is not included in the Summit registration. Click here to add on this registration. Your workshop registration includes Summit registration; you will not need to return to this page to register for the Annual Summit separately. Presenter: Bill Fogel

A delicious lunch in the Four Points ballroom with a presentation of AMC awards.

Science communication is outreach that brings together many audiences and stakeholders and uses accessible language to talk about and facilitate scientific learning and discussion. This workshop will provide examples of effective science communication, link science communication to the larger story of science and discovery, and engage audience members to create their own messaging around scientific findings or discoveries. Special focus will be given to volunteers and trip leaders to equip them with the tools to communicate AMC science at the trailhead and beyond. Presenter: Gabriella Gurney, Climate Communications Fellow

Variable conditions make outdoor trips exciting, but they can also ramp up the risk factor and add stress to a leader’s already-full plate. When unexpected weather, injury, illness, or other surprises pop up, your approach to leadership needs to shift. Experienced leaders discuss how and when to make tough choices about things like emergent itinerary changes, splitting the group, calling for help, and more. Presenter: Colby Meehan, Director of Leadership Outdoors

Beyond Bathrooms is a 90-minute workshop that helps participants increase their understanding of trans identity, relevant language vocabulary, and unintentional barriers to inclusion that many members of the trans community face. Participants will learn about better practices in building inclusive and affirming organizations as well as learn how to be an effective and affirming ally. Presenter: The Venture Out Project

Attend a special screening of Wood Hood, a short documentary movie, which won awards at the Banff and Crested Butte Film Festivals. Meet Manny Almonte and Andy Isaacson, producer of the documentary and co-founders of the Camping to Connect program. They will give attendees an insider look at the making of the movie and running a BIPOC-led mentorship program that teaches leadership, brotherhood, and inclusion in the outdoors. Presenter: Seb Venuat, Director of Educators Outdoors

The ability to apply basic backcountry first aid is vital for any outdoor enthusiast. This course teaches the skills necessary to identify and treat medical issues common to wilderness settings and to prepare for long-term care scenarios. Includes hands-on practice and lectures. Upon completion, participants receive 16-hour SOLO Wilderness First Aid certification. This course may be used to recertify a current SOLO Wilderness First Responder (WFR) certification. An optional CPR certification will be offered in the evening. Please note that this workshop is not included in the Summit registration. Click here to add on this registration. Your workshop registration includes Summit registration; you will not need to return to this page to register for the Annual Summit separately.
Presenter: Lisa Schott, Manager of Leadership Training

How do we create a sense of belonging with our participants? How do we consecrate our values through policy? Join Educators Outdoors as we share our best practices in building belonging with participants and members so they feel a sense of ownership, acceptance, and hospitality within AMC. In this interactive session, we’ll consider access and barriers to the outdoors, screening for risk management, and come up with concrete steps to build relationships and care for individuals and communities.

Presenter: Vida James, Educator Outdoors Manager; Eva Leonard, Programs Coordindator; Megan Luce, New England Senior Manager

Come meet and hear stories from AMC’s hospitality staff! Learn who is serving you delicious food, helping you plan your hiking route, and keeping our guest spaces beautiful and clean. Year-round, AMC employs passionate people of all ages who make our lodges, huts, and camps a special place for your outdoor memories. During this session, you’ll hear stories of AMC staff past and present, and learn how AMC builds resumes and skills sets. Perhaps you will be inspired to apply! Presenter: Jess Wilson, Director of White Mountain Lodges, Huts & Camps

Please note that this workshop is not included in the Summit registration. Click here to add on this registration. Your workshop registration includes Summit registration; you will not need to return to this page to register for the Annual Summit separately. Presenter: Bill Fogel

As more states invest in the health of their residents, we’re seeing more State Offices of Outdoor Recreation being created. Join AMC’s conservation staff and invited guests as they discuss the growing number of State Offices of Outdoor Recreation across AMC’s region and how best we can utilize these resources to further AMC’s conservation mission. Presenter: Danielle Guttman, Mid-Atlantic Policy Manager

A session focused on preventing, recognizing, and treating environmental injuries. Topics under discussion will include hypothermia, frostbite, heat exhaustion, heat stroke, and severe allergic reactions including anaphylaxis. Presenter: Dr. Tom Trimarco, Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center

Beyond Bathrooms is a 90-minute workshop that helps participants increase their understanding of trans identity, relevant language vocabulary, and unintentional barriers to inclusion that many members of the trans community face. Participants will learn about better practices in building inclusive and affirming organizations as well as learn how to be an effective and affirming ally. Presenter: The Venture Out Project

The Indigenous Site Survey Project Report details the Indigenous and tribal history along the New England National Scenic Trail (NET). Through the development of a historical survey of the trail corridor focusing on the trail's tribal history, we plan to map the intersection of outdoor recreation, tribal history, and historic preservation. Join us for a conversation about the project, its development, and how we will use these findings as a framework to navigate the future of conservation. Presenter: Jay Levy, Tribal Consultant for the New England Trail; Miriam Maistelman, New England Trail Coordinator

The ability to apply basic backcountry first aid is vital for any outdoor enthusiast. This course teaches the skills necessary to identify and treat medical issues common to wilderness settings and to prepare for long-term care scenarios. Includes hands-on practice and lectures. Upon completion, participants receive 16-hour SOLO Wilderness First Aid certification. This course may be used to recertify a current SOLO Wilderness First Responder (WFR) certification. An optional CPR certification will be offered in the evening. Please note that this workshop is not included in the Summit registration. Click here to add on this registration. Your workshop registration includes Summit registration; you will not need to return to this page to register for the Annual Summit separately.
Presenter: Lisa Schott, Manager of Leadership Training

AMC volunteers are passionate about helping people enjoy the outdoors and learn about the natural world! Get involved in maintaining trails, leading trips, helping at AMC huts and lodges, speaking up for conservation, and participating in community science. Please join us for this introduction to the wide range of volunteer opportunities available with AMC, and find out how to get started as an AMC volunteer.
Presenter: Kyra Salancy, Outdoor Program Centers Volunteer Coordinator

Learn the different methods the AMC uses to compost human waste in the backcountry and learn how to compost your kitchen scraps at home. We can find a compost method that meets your time and space! Presenter: Joe Roman, Backcountry Resource Manager

Please note that this workshop is not included in the Summit registration. Click here to add on this registration. Your workshop registration includes Summit registration; you will not need to return to this page to register for the Annual Summit separately. Presenter: Bill Fogel

Forests play an important role in cleaning our air and water, housing plants and animals, and slowing and adapting to climate change. They also support local communities and economies as a recreation base and source of timber. Come learn about the importance of the forests in AMC's region and the work our research scientists, land managers, and policy advocates are doing to keep forests healthy and intact. Presenter: Eliza Townsend, Director of Maine Conservation Policy

Enhance your outdoor leadership by sharing interesting and engaging information about the natural world! Winter is a great time to start learning about birds. Blue jays, chickadees, and nuthatches are a few of the species active throughout the winter. Through hands-on activities we’ll learn about these birds’ habits, shapes, markings, and calls/songs to provide a great foundation of birding basics before the spring rush of returning migratory birds. Presenter: Nancy Ritger, Director of Interpretive Programs

Why, and how have People of Color been excluded from full participation in nature spaces and outdoor sports? Please join us in welcoming Mardi Fuller, a lifelong backcountry adventurer, who in January 2021 became the first-known Black person to hike all 48 of New Hampshire's high peaks in winter. Mardi will take us on a brief, but deep dive into understanding white supremacy and how it normalizes its own experiences, history, narratives, and environmental ideology. Mardi will speak on her life of adventures as a Black outdoorswoman who has grown into her liberation-focused identity. We'll discuss barriers marginalized people face in accessing the outdoors and how their exclusion is detrimental to all people. We'll end by discussing solutions and how each of us can play a role in increasing equitable access to nature and outdoor activities. Presenter: Mardi Fuller

Improve your writing, photo, and video skills in this session led by AMC's Marketing and Communications team. Discover how to put the audience first to create compelling messages that win hearts and minds for AMC’s outdoor recreation, conservation, and education work. Presenter: Sarah Bierschwale, Digital Marketing Manager

The ability to apply basic backcountry first aid is vital for any outdoor enthusiast. This course teaches the skills necessary to identify and treat medical issues common to wilderness settings and to prepare for long-term care scenarios. Includes hands-on practice and lectures. Upon completion, participants receive 16-hour SOLO Wilderness First Aid certification. This course may be used to recertify a current SOLO Wilderness First Responder (WFR) certification. An optional CPR certification will be offered in the evening. Please note that this workshop is not included in the Summit registration. Click here to add on this registration. Your workshop registration includes Summit registration; you will not need to return to this page to register for the Annual Summit separately.
Presenter: Lisa Schott, Manager of Leadership Training

Any new chapter Executive Committee members who are new to the Executive Committee or starting a new role are welcome to this orientation session where we will review roles and responsibilities, how to access resources, and answer any questions you may have.
Presenter: Volunteer Relations team

Find out how AMC provides high-quality services and shares its mission with different diverse communities across our 700-mile region. We get people outdoors in a responsible way, educating them about the environment and their impact on it. Presenter: Nancy Mack, Regional Lodging Manager, NY & NJ; Charlene Fearnley, MWI Regional Lodging Manager

Please note that this workshop is not included in the Summit registration. Click here to add on this registration. Your workshop registration includes Summit registration; you will not need to return to this page to register for the Annual Summit separately. Presenter: Bill Fogel

A fun social hour for attendees to meet and mingle.