Museum of the White Mountains
34 Highland St
Plymouth, NH 03264
United States
This discussion delves into the unique challenges and opportunities facing backcountry skiers, riders, and winter enthusiasts on the East Coast. We’ll explore how backcountry skiing can foster resilience and connection, while also addressing the psychological toll of bearing witness to the effects a warming planet has on the landscapes, habitats, and communities we love. From shifting snowpacks and rising temperatures to the critical role movement in nature has on our mental health, this talk highlights the ways we can adapt, advocate, and learn to thrive in the face of ecological grief and loss.Told through personal and academic perspectives, this presentation is ideal for anyone interested in how a love of winter fostered a commitment to intersectional climate advocacy.
Blake grew up skiing East Coast community-oriented mountains like Butternut and Sundown. After moving to Seattle, WA, he found trusted friends and mentors who introduced him to the beautiful and seemingly endless skiing opportunities offered up by the North Cascades. Many happy days were spent charging up mountains with skis on his back and riding terrain that a few years before seemed impossible. After moving back East in 2010, Blake quickly found opportunities to share his love for backcountry skiing and ski mountaineering by teaching AIARE courses and ski guiding in the White Mountains. In addition to working for Synnott Mountain Guides, Blake is earning a Masters of Science in Clinical Mental Health. Additionally, he is incredibly grateful for the continued support from Fischer Skis, Protect Our Winters, Gordini, and FlyLow. When he isn’t in the mountains, Blake is looking for waves to surf, clean rivers to fish, and books to read. He and his wife Kennesaw, along with their cats Lucy & Iggy, love the close proximity of the ocean and mountains, and appreciate the endless gifts and opportunities they provide.
This event is hybrid. To receive a Zoom link, please register.

FREE
603-535-3210
museum.wm@plymouth.edu