I Bird I Vote Conservation Summit
Saturday, February 1
9:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.
Chesapeake Bay Foundation
6 Herndon Avenue
Annapolis, MD 21403
A new ASCM board member in 2024, Tom Rogers wasn’t sure what to expect at Maryland Audubon’s annual conservation summit, I Bird I Vote (IBIV). Along with over one hundred other bird enthusiasts, he “got to hear from experts regarding advocacy, science, political challenges and opportunities” at the beautiful headquarters of the Chesapeake Bay Foundation. “It was a terrific experience.”
This year, IBIV promises to be even more special. Jim Brown, Audubon Mid-Atlantic’s director of policy, notes that 2025 will be the event’s 10th anniversary. Audubon scientists will share the latest news about tidal marsh restoration work on the Eastern Shore, part of a regional effort called Marshes for Tomorrow. Other confirmed speakers, says Jim Brown, “include Department of Natural Resources Leadership, National Audubon Society renewable experts, state delegates, and environmental non-profit representatives from across the state.”
Audubon volunteer Eli Vogel, who also attended for the first time in 2024, says he looks forward to learning more at this year’s meeting about proposed state legislation. “I’m especially interested in which bills local activists should push for with our state representatives.”
Jim Brown says speakers will emphasize Audubon priority bills in Annapolis, including bills that would officially define “ecological restoration,” enhance Chesapeake Bay watershed protection, and support marsh habitat restoration. Says Brown, “Audubon will also discuss ways that you can defend Maryland’s funding for environmental protection during what is expected to be a very tough budget year.”
Eli Vogel also enjoys meeting other conservationists at IBIV. “It’s encouraging to be surrounded by so many dedicated bird policy advocates.” Brown notes that there will be opportunities to socialize over refreshments during breaks and lunch. He adds, “The day will also include a guided bird outing along the shores of the Chesapeake Bay.”
Tom Rogers, now interim president of ASCM, is looking forward to this year’s conference. He’s especially eager to hear from National Audubon leaders on how conservation organizations will push federal conservation forward with the new administration. He encourages others to sign up for IBIV 2025 too, saying, “It’s a full day commitment, but there is real value in it. And a real need for it as well.”
This year’s I Bird I Vote Conservation Summit will be held on February 1, 2025, 9 am to 3 pm, at the Chesapeake Bay headquarters in Annapolis. Registration required and includes lunch and refreshments. Scholarships are available. For more information please contact Tess Wilson at tess.wildon@audubon.org.