Climate documentary 'Saving Snow' to screen
The focus of a film screening and panel discussion next week will look at a trend of warmer winters and what that means for the snow in the future.
The event is Wednesday, March 28 at 7:30 p.m. at the O’Shaughnessy Center in Whitefish.
“Saving Snow” is a 53-minute documentary about the impact of climate change on winter. The film focuses on people coming to terms with these changes. But it also presents solutions and highlights individuals and organizations who are working to reduce their communities’ impacts on the environment and raise awareness of the need for action.
“I grew up skiing in Whitefish, and I want to make sure we have plenty of snow in our future for my daughter who also loves to ski,” said Tori Marcial, president of 350 Glacier, a local group that advocates for climate solutions.
Following the film, a panel will discuss their experiences, the science and what we can be done to save winters.
Dr. Anne Nolin, a climate scientist at Oregon State University is featured in the film and will be one of the panelists in Whitefish. The Flathead will experience warmer winters in the future, she says.
“We’ve been in a weak La Niña weather pattern this winter, which can mean more snow in Montana,” she said. “Future winters in western Montana will see ups and downs in the amount of snow, but the overall warming trend will continue with more winter rainfall, less snow, and earlier snowmelt. How much warmer depends on how quickly we reduce fossil fuel emissions.”
Panelists following the film include, Brett Cease, Nordic ski racer who appears in film; Anne Nolin, Oregon State University hydroclimatologist who appears in film; Dave Hadden, North Shore Nordic Club; · Greg Fortin, Glacier Adventure Guides; and Mariah Gladstone, Whitefish Climate Action Plan Committee.
Admission is free and refreshments will be available. Sponsored by 350 Glacier, Climate Smart Glacier Country, National Parks Conservation Association and the Flathead Valley Chapter of Citizens’ Climate Lobby.