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A scheduled July 1st public listening session and discussion will provide an opportunity for leaders of the America's Great Outdoors Initiative to hear from people in the Northwest about solutions for building a 21st century conservation and recreation agenda and reconnecting people with the outdoors. In the Northwest many citizens and organizations are deeply involved in the conservation of working farms, forests, lakes, and rivers, scenic lands, and historic areas, and in celebrating and enjoying the region's rich outdoor and cultural heritage. The America's Great Outdoors Initiative was established by President Obama in April at a White House Conference specifically to develop a conservation and recreation agenda worthy of the 21st century and to reconnect Americans with our great outdoors. To accomplish this goal, the Administration's effort will be community driven. The Secretaries of Interior and Agriculture, Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency and Chair of the Council on Environmental Quality have been asked by the President to lead this effort and to listen and learn from people all over the country. Listening sessions will engage a full range of stakeholders including tribal leaders, farmers and ranchers, sportsmen, community park groups, foresters, business people, educators, state and local governments and recreation and conservation groups. WHO: Representatives from DOI, USDA, EPA, and CEQ will be present to hear your thoughts and to participate in a conversation with you about America's Great Outdoors. WHAT: Opportunities to share your ideas in breakout groups along with presentations by senior officials from DOI, USDA, EPA, and CEQ and expert panel discussions. WHEN: Thursday, July 1st, 6:30pm to 9:00 pm WHERE: Franklin High School Maryland Hall for the Creative Arts, 801 Chase Street, 3013 South Mount Baker Blvd, Seattle, Washington, 98144, franklinquakers.org/school_info/directions.htmPlease Register: The event is free and open to the public, but please let us know if you will attend so we can plan accordingly. Register by 10 pm, Monday June 28 by sending your name, telephone number and primary area of interest: Working land, open space, and landscape conservation; Outdoor Recreation; Youth engagement and environmental education; General. You may register through: discovernw.org/ago-signup.htm. For more information on the America's Great Outdoors Initiative and to submit comments on-line visit: doi.gov/americasgreatoutdoors/. You can also visit many of the BLM's recreation sites at: blm.gov/or/resources/recreation/index.php