What is nature? How do we view ourselves within an ecosystem? The timescale of human habitation is a blink of an eye in geological terms, yet great changes have occurred to our environment. The land and waterways in Dutchess County tell a rich story from past glacial activity, the gradual formation of soils, the growth of great forests, and of human inhabitance pre and post colonization. Join Julie Hart and Brian Straniti of Dutchess Land Conservancy along the trail to Dover Stone Church as we take a trip through time to examine the ways our landscape has changed, and delve into the more recent past to talk about our various perceptions of nature and how they change and are influenced.
This moderate hike is approximately 1 mile roundtrip with slippery rocks at times - appropriate footwear is required.
About the Speakers
Julie Hart | Director of Education
Julie Hart is responsible for overseeing the DLC’s diverse public education programs. Connecting people to the land is a keystone of the DLC’s approach to public education, and Julie works collaboratively with many local organizations, farms and schools to present both in-person and online educational programs. With a focus on encouraging good land stewardship, these programs include informal nature walks, land management workshops and webinars, panel discussions, and outdoor explorations and activities. Julie joined the DLC staff in 2007 and previously worked at the Cary Institute of Ecosystem Studies in Millbrook where she served as Research Specialist, studying nutrient cycling in upland forests and the impacts of invasive pests and pathogens on forest health. Julie has a BA in Biology with a focus on Ecology from Bard College, is a certified New York State EMT, and serves as the DLC’s resident expert on ecology and biodiversity.
Brian Straniti | Outreach and Preserve Manager
Brian Straniti, joined the Dutchess Land Conservancy in September of 2021. His responsibilities include identifying new, and strengthening existing, relationships within Dutchess County and beyond. This is accomplished by adding support to education, stewardship, and development staff projects, while using his social science background to explore new engagement opportunities to further the DLC’s mission. Brian has a distinct emphasis in his work on diversity, equity, inclusion, and justice. He has accomplished social science projects for The Nature Conservancy including an ethnographic research project based on equitable conservation practices with in the organization. Brian has a MS in Cultural and Environmental Resource Management from Central Washington University as well as a BA in Geography with minors in Anthropology and Sociology from Southern Connecticut State University. Brian loves mountain biking, hiking, brewing beer, quoting The Simpsons, and hanging out with his kids.
