Connecting people through place and storytelling.
Sense of Place (SOP) features presenters with a unique knowledge of the Columbia River Gorge and who consider the natural, cultural, and political history that has shaped this place. The presenters can include scientists, tribal members, authors, farmers, and many others from throughout the Pacific Northwest. The information and stories shared at these talks deepen our understanding of the Gorge and strengthen our connection to the landscape and to each other.
Check out this short film honoring the 10th Anniversary of Sense of Place and consider becoming a Season 13 Sponsor!
Lecture Details
- Sense of Place is returning to live lectures in October!
- We offer a Livestream option for those who cannot attend the live lecture. Please sign up for the Sense of Place newsletter to be informed when the live stream is available and how to access it.
- All lectures will be recorded, archived, and made available the month following their original air date.
Sense of Place: Season 13 Lineup

Oct. 19, 2022
Title: Bloodsucker, Eel, Asum, Ksuyas, Parasite, Lamprey: Many Names, but What Does it Mean to Us?
Speaker: Ralph Lampman
*presentation will include live lamprey!

Nov. 9, 2022
Title: Nancy Russell’s Legacy at Cape Horn: Inside a National Scenic Area Campaign
Speaker: Bowen Blair
Jan. 11, 2023
Title: Wildfire in the Gorge: The Good, the Bad, and Lessons from Eagle Creek
Speakers: Jessica Hudec, Loretta Duke, and Brian Harvey

Feb. 8, 2023
Title: Living Snow: Mysterious Pink Snow and the Future of Our Alpine Ecosystems
Speaker: Robin Kodner

Mar. 8, 2023
Title/Speaker: A Conversation with Kat Brigham
Chair of the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation and Appointed Member of the First-Ever Secretary’s Tribal Advisory Committee for the U.S. Department of the Interior

Apr. 12, 2023
Title: Volcanic Origins of the Columbia River Gorge: A Tangled Tale of Magma and Water
Speaker: Leif Karlstrom
COVID – 19 Statement:
The goal of Sense of Place is to offer our audience top-notch lectures from thoughtful speakers. Like everyone, we must monitor the changing pandemic guidelines as they come, including what may be considered safe for in-person presentations. Please sign up to the the Sense of Place Newsletter to receive any announcements or special program information directly to your inbox. Thank you for your patience and support. Email us at sop@mtadamsinstitute.org with any questions.
Thank you to our Season 13 Sponsors!
