IEN’s Protecting Mother Earth Conference August 1-4, 2024

A few more things before you go...

Please be respectful of the spaces we have been generously allowed to use by following onsite signage, protocols, and conventions included in this document. Always, when in doubt ask and we will be glad to help you.

Check In and the days ahead:

• Registration will be open at Noon on July 31st and be available until 8am August 1st. Security will register/check-in guests at the gate after 8am Aug. 1st.
• Campers can begin setting up their area on July 31st at noon. You must register before setting up your campsite and we encourage you to sign up or confirm volunteer assignments as soon as possible. Volunteer coordinators and contact info will be provided.

• Pictures—Please be mindful and ask permission before taking pictures or recording video. During certain gatherings/ceremonies, you may be asked not to take pictures or video. If in doubt, ask.
• Media – All media and journalists are required to check in at the media tent. 
• Please keep your camping area tidy. There will be stations to dispose of trash and recycling. 
• We strongly encourage people not to use/bring disposables as much as possible. We ask that everyone bring their own dishes, eating utensils, cups, and water bottles.
• Keep your valuables secured or with you. We will have security on site; however, we cannot be responsible for lost or stolen items. 
• Vehicles – If you are driving into the PME, you may be able to drive to the camping area to drop off equipment but will have to park in a designated area. We will have security monitoring around the clock. Please lock your vehicles.
• First Aid – We will have a medical tent for minor injuries and maladies with qualified staff assisting any emergency needs on site.
• Mobility – The ground around the camping, workshops, and school areas are grassy/uneven. If you have mobility issues please email us at: pme2024@ienearth.org and let staff know when you register. We will do everything we can to accommodate these needs and knowing in advance will help us to do this.
• Please leave pets at home when possible. We will allow emotional support and service companions within reason. There will be areas for walking – please clean up after your pet.  All pets must be kept with you and safe at all times.

Children

• We want them to join us, and we want them to be safe; therefore, we ask that they be accompanied by an adult at all times.
• We encourage parents and caregivers to volunteer for a daycare shift if you can. You can sign up for daycare and other volunteer roles during the gathering at check-in.
• Bring toys, books, or other favorite items as well.

The organizer’s of this event have reserved 25 spots for children attending the PME. You can preregister here: https://visitcherokeenc.com/events/talking-trees-childrens-trout-fishing-derby/ or on Saturday morning, August 3rd. Please read the information at the link above for all the details!

Water IS Life! 

• Swimming/bathing in the river – The river in this area can be unsafe at times due to fast currents and deep water.
  • Children are to be accompanied and monitored by adults at all times while enjoying the beauty and respite from the heat.
  • Please do not use chemicals (sunscreens/lotions) or soaps, to bathe, wash dishes.
  • Do not throw food/waste into the water or on the river bank.
  • Remove ALL trash and personal items when leaving. Pick up what may not be yours if needed, to ensure the health of our water.
  • No dog walking along the river.

Sacred Fire

• Please be quiet around this area and respectful when approaching the fire.
  • There will be a firekeeper at all times. Obey any direction that may be given by the firekeeper.
  • Do NOT throw anything into the fire.
  • There will be other protocols provided at the opening ceremony and lighting of the sacred fire.

Campfires

If conditions allow we may be able to have campfires in designated areas. Campfire wood will be provided from local sources.

Please do not bring firewood with you to prevent the spread of pests and pathogens. 

Strictly Prohibited! Firearms, drugs, and alcohol  while attending the conference and on the property where the PME is being conducted.

Please stay tuned for updates: volunteer sign-up, travel scholarships, and additional information as we finalize all the plans for the 18th Protecting Mother Earth Conference as the days draw closer.

We’re working very hard to accommodate everyone’s needs, but if you have any outstanding concerns before you arrive, please email us at pme2024@ienearth.org.  If you can wait until you arrive, please do. The staff is busy with final preparations, but if your concern can’t wait, we’ll do our best to answer it promptly.

Our hosts, event organizers, partners, allies, speakers, staff, and volunteers want everyone to have a safe and productive experience. We are very grateful that you will join us at this year’s 18th Protecting Mother Earth Conference.