LPOW hosting water summit
SANDPOINT — Lake Pend Oreille Waterkeeper is celebrating its 10th year protecting the water quality of Lake Pend Oreille.
As a science-based, data-driven organization, LPOW officails said they are memorializing the anniversary with an event that represents the core of the organization.
Friday’s event at the Panida Theater will feature five speakers who will discuss innovative technology and scientific breakthroughs that influence water quality. The speakers will share stories about phytoplankton (algae), bacteria and viruses that live and thrive in different types of aquatic environments. From bacteria that produce actual electricity to viruses that inhabit deep-sea volcanoes, LPOW officials said the hope is that those attending will walk away with a brand-new appreciation for the unseen.
Only one of the five speakers will deviate from our “unseen” theme to speak on the economic impact of clean water on the tourism of Sandpoint. To top off the “amazing” line-up of speakers, Lake Pend Oreille Executive Director Shannon Williamson said Robert F. Kennedy Jr. will be in attendance as the keynote speaker.
“What better way commemorate this celebration than to have the founder of Waterkeeper Alliance, Robert F. Kennedy Jr. in attendance,” Williamson said.
The water summit, “Discovering the Unseen – Exploring Our Waters’ Tiniest Organisms and Biggest influencers.”
The summit is planned for Friday, Sept. 20, at the Panida Theater from 6-9 p.m. Tickets are $35 and are available at the Panida Theater or online at lakependoreillewaterkeeper.org/water-summit.html.
In addition to the water summit, LPOW will be hosting two events that will allow attendees a more intimate setting with the speakers. Before the summit, from 3:30-5 p.m., there will be a meet-and-greet event with the five speakers and Robert F. Kennedy Jr. Tickets to the event is limited to 30 people; beverages and light appetizers will be provided.
On Saturday, Sept. 21, a panel discussion featuring the five speakers will be held over brunch at the Heartwood Center in Sandpoint, allowing for the opportunity for attendees to ask questions about their presentations. The discussion will be held from 10 a.m.-noon.
“We are so thrilled to bring these dynamic speakers to the greater Sandpoint community,” Williamson said. “It goes without saying that we are thrilled to host Robert F. Kennedy Jr. as our keynote. His keynote speech will leave a lasting impression on all who join us at the water summit.”
Tickets are $35 for the water summit, $100 for the meet-and-greet event with Robert F. Kennedy Jr., and $30 for the panel discussion. A package to attend all three events is $150 per person, with a limit of 30 tickets.
As with any large event, extra help will be needed! If you are interested in volunteering, please email chantilly@lpow.org.