Winter Fishtrap: What is the West?

What exactly is the West? Is it a territory with distinct borders? An environment or topography? A culture? A myth? Is the West simply a state of mind? These are the conversations we will explore with Winter Fishtrap, a three-day gathering to help develop a greater understanding of our place, ourselves, and each other.

Friday, February 14
5:30pm – Doors Open
6:00pm – Reception
7:00pm – Opening Night Keynote
What are the Stories We Tell about the West? 
A conversation with Debra Magpie Earling. Plus connection and conversation.

Saturday, February 15
8:30am – Doors Open – Coffee – Light Breakfast
9:00am – Morning Topic
Who Owns the West? 
A panel discussion moderated by Kathleen Ackley of the Wallowa Land Trust followed by activities and interactive breakout sessions.

Noon – Lunch Break

1:00pm – Afternoon Topic
Who Lives and Works in the West?
A panel discussion moderated by Wallowa Resources followed by activities and interactive breakout sessions.

Saturday Night
6:00pm – Dutch Oven Cook Off Dinner and Best of the West Storytelling Showcase

Sunday, February 16
8:30am – Doors Open – Coffee – Light Breakfast
9:00am – Morning Topic
The Indigenous Experience with Bobbie Conner, Debra Magpie Earling, and the Wallowa Nez Perce Homeland
A panel discussion moderated by Shannon McNerney

Times and topics are subject to change.

About Winter Fishtrap

Each January, Winter Fishtrap takes on issues that are important to citizens of the West by gathering diverse voices to inspire a greater understanding on a timely theme. Activities include lectures, panel discussions, break-out workshops, and more.

Over the years, this popular program has explored such topics as “The New Agrarians,” “Dams,” “Fire,” “Down Wind, Down River,” and “Water” among many others. Expect a vibrant exchange of ideas and information while making life-long connections.