Chris Orsinger, former Executive Director of Friends of Buford Park & Mt. Pisgah visited Laja partners in February 2020 in the state of Guanajuato, Mexico.
Chris made several presentations to Laja conservation leaders about how to achieve greater impact through more effective collaboration. His presentation highlighted several collaborative restoration efforts in the Willamette basin that coordinated planning, funding, land protection, restoration and nature recreation, including the Willamette River Network, the Rivers to Ridges Partnership. Chris’ presentations inspired Laja partners to strengthen their collaboration under an existing coalition called “Agua Vida.”
Chris also participated in site visits and meetings to help “co-plan” the Las Tinajas restoration project. The project vision seeks to restore wetland and upland wildlife habitat, reduce soil erosion, improve water quality, and possibly develop interpretive trails and train local nature guides and bird monitors. This pilot “co-planning” effort is a method of peer-to-peer learning between Willamette and Laja restoration professionals, and could offer opportunities for sustainable economic activity and “ecotourism” in a rural community near San Miguel de Allende.
Visiting nurseries that are providing native plants to restoration projects was another focus, as a future exchange may involve nursery employees from both nations. Chris helped establish a native plant nursery for restoration project while working for the Friends of Buford Park.
Chris also made lively presentations to 5th graders at three of our partner schools in the Laja basin. He shared images and stories about iconic Willamette river wildlife, including great blue herons, western pond turtles, monarch butterflies and Chinook salmon. And the kids really enjoyed his harmonic playing and an outdoor game he wove into his presentations.
“I thoroughly enjoyed connecting with our friends, colleagues and youth in Guanajuato,” said Chris. “I was inspired to see the many partners who were implementing exciting projects.” Chris also had a great time visiting an Otomi archeological site and astronomical pyramid, enjoying the tasty local cuisine and listening to and meeting musicians. He even sat in on upright bass with a jazz trio one night!
The Twinning Partnership appreciates Chris’ ambassadorial role as an accomplished restoration practitioner and community stewardship advocate with more than three decades of experience.
NOTE: Like the Las Tinajas project, we are currently seeking a restoration project in the Willamette that the Laja can help co-plan. This peer-to-peer learning opportunity is one of a kind and offers unique cultural learning experiences in conservation. Email Tara Davis at willamette.laja@gmail.com if you have suggestions or questions.
