On this episode of "Planning the Wild" we dive into the inspiring journey of Alyssa Brownlee, a passionate outdoor enthusiast and business owner. From her adventurous childhood to becoming a river guide and now owner of Horse Creek Lodge, Alyssa shares her story of finding solace in nature and turning her love for the outdoors into a thriving business. Discover how she navigates the challenges of running a recreation business in the heart of the Willamette National Forest, and the importance of community partnerships in the outdoor recreation economy. Tune in for an engaging conversation filled with personal insights and the joy of connecting people with nature.

• Horse Creek Lodge: https://horse-creek.com/

• McKenzie Trail Volunteers: https://www.facebook.com/61575624755588

In this episode of "Planning the Wild," Rachel Franchina sits down with Kate Porsche, the Director of OSU's Center for the Outdoor Recreation Economy. Kate shares her journey from economic development to outdoor recreation workforce development, highlighting how intertwined they are. She also talks about her unique skills like ham radio operation and welding, which she humorously refers to as her "zombie apocalypse skills." Tune in to explore how these personal interests and skills intersect with her professional life, offering insights into workforce development and the outdoor recreation economy.

• Oregon State University Center for Outdoor Recreation Economy: https://outdooreconomy.oregonstate.edu/

• Oregon Economic Development Association: https://oeda.biz/

• Oregon Rural Tourism Studios: https://industry.traveloregon.com/programs/oregon-tourism-studios/rural-tourism-studio/

About Our Guest, Kate Porsche

Kate serves as the Director for OSU’s Center for the Outdoor Recreation Economy-focusing on creating workforce solutions for the industry. Prior to OSU she worked in local government in Oregon focused on community, economic, and workforce development. She holds a master’s degree in Public Policy from OSU, is Vice President of the Oregon Outdoor Alliance and a SORP board member. Kate is a native Oregonian, and rehabilitates historic homes in her free time.

In this episode of "Planning the Wild", we delve into the world of trail advocacy and recreation management with Don Amador, a seasoned expert with over 35 years of experience. Discover how Don's journey from a family rooted in the outdoors to becoming a pivotal figure in trail stewardship has shaped his approach to managing public lands. We explore the importance of long-term relationships, the impact of natural disasters on recreation facilities, and the collaborative efforts needed to ensure sustainable access to the great outdoors. Whether you're a recreation planner, trail manager, or outdoor enthusiast, this episode offers valuable insights into the challenges and triumphs of managing our cherished natural spaces.

• Quiet Warrior Racing: https://quietwarriorracing.com/

• Post Wildfire OHV Recovery Alliance: https://www.facebook.com/pwora/

• FireScape Mendocino: https://www.firescapemendocino.org/

About Don:

Don Amador has been in the trail advocacy and recreation management profession for over 35 years. Don is President of Quiet Warrior Racing LLC. Don serves as the Western States Representative for the Motorcycle Industry Council. Don is Past President/CEO and current board member of the Post Wildfire OHV Recovery Alliance. Don is a Co-Founder and Core-Team member on FireScape Mendocino that is part of the Fire Learning Network. Don served as an AD Driver for the North Zone Fire Cache during the 2022, 2023, and 2024 Fire Seasons.

In this episode, we explore the transformative power of Public-Private Partnerships in rural communities. We dive into how these collaborations are bridging gaps, fostering innovation, and driving sustainable development. Rachel talks to Nick Green about his journey from defense intelligence to rural community revitalization. They discuss the importance of a shared vision for the future and the power of outdoor recreation to bring people together. Tune in to discover how synergy between public and private sectors is reshaping the landscape of rural development.

About Nick

Nick Green is the founder and President of Catalyst Public Policy Advisors, LLC, which provides consulting services for rural communities. Nick specializes in public-private developments and managing large-scale capital improvement projects, including projects designed to promote recreation economy advances for rural areas. Nick formerly served as City Manager for the City of John Day in eastern Oregon. Previously, he was a Senior Associate with consulting firm Booz Allen Hamilton, a Project Manager with Jacobs Engineering, and an intelligence analyst with the Defense Intelligence Agency. Nick has a Masters in Public Administration from the Evans School of Public Policy and Governance and a Certificate in Technology Entrepreneurship from the Foster School of Business at the University of Washington, with a Bachelor of Science in Microbiology from Brigham Young University. He currently lives in John Day, Oregon.

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nickgreen3/

• Catalyst Public Policy Advisors: https://www.catalyst.win/

• John Day, OR, Recreation Economy for Rural Communities (RERC) Report: https://www.cityofjohnday.com/sites/default/files/fileattachments/planning/page/3089/rerc_report_johndayor_final.pdf

• Recreation and Revitalization in John Day: https://www.cityofjohnday.com/sites/default/files/fileattachments/city_council/meeting/packets/3571/4b._recreation_and_revitalization_in_john_day_western_planner_july_2020.pdf