Present-day climate change is intimately linked to geological and environmental history. From the magnificent cliffs of the Palisades to the pollinator gardens outside the David Rockefeller Creative Arts Center, landscapes have a story to tell.
To kick off this unique lecture and walking tour of The Pocantico Center, guests will gather in the David Rockefeller Creative Arts Center (DR Center) where Kim Fendrich, educator and program coordinator at the Rockefeller State Park Preserve, will provide an overview of the billion-year evolution of the Hudson Valley landscape that continues to shape the region today.
Signe Nielsen, FASLA, founding principal of MNLA, will then focus on the DR Center, where her firm designed contemporary landscapes to mitigate some negative impacts of climate change using native plants to restore habitat, a rain garden to capture and filter stormwater, and trees for passive shade.
Following a Q&A and reception, Kim and Signe will lead visitors outdoors for an up-close look at the environmental features introduced in the presentations. Signe will first lead guests through the DR Center landscape; Kim will then lead guests to points of geologic interest around Pocantico.
Please note that some parts of the walk will be uphill, on uneven terrain, grass, and gravel paths, and may require using stairs. Please wear sturdy, comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing. Sunscreen and bug spray are recommended.
Program:
1:00–1:30: Presentation by Kim Fendrich
1:30–2:00: Presentation by Signe Nielson
2:00–2:15: Q&A
Signe Nielsen
Landscape Architect
Signe Nielsen has been a practicing landscape architect since 1978. She believes in using design as a vehicle for advocacy to promote discourse on social equity and community resilience. A fellow of the American Society of Landscape Architects, she is a professor of urban design and landscape architecture at Pratt Institute and holds degrees from Smith College, City College of New York, and Pratt Institute.
Kim Fendrich
Educator & Program Coordinator, Rockefeller State Park Preserve
Kim Fendrich has a passion for connecting people with the land and its complex geologic history. Over the last ten years, her classroom space has evolved from a collegiate setting to the American Museum of Natural History and finally to the great outdoors. Kim is the educator and program coordinator at Rockefeller State Park Preserve and holds an M.S. in geosciences from the University of Arizona.
