What better place to explore the preservation of outdoor places than beautiful and historic South County? Step out to learn about protecting and preserving historic farms, farmland, forests, and waterfronts. Think about what features contribute to a sense of place in villages, campuses, and neighborhoods. Gather tips from experts and compare experiences with colleagues from around the state and the region. 

Field trips will sample places like historic camps, archaeological sites, farms, plantations, gristmills, sites connected with South County folklore and literary history, modern architecture, villages, seaside resorts, and more. On campus, we will have the opportunity to explore URI's historic buildings, campus planning projects, and latest heritage initiatives.

What do you want to learn about historic preservation? We need your input on conference sessions, tours, and speakers. Conference sessions run 75 minutes long and focus on relevant preservation topics. This includes--but is not limited to--open space, farms, waterfronts, planning, landscapes, technology, sustainability, artistry, design, economics, housing, smart growth, museums, advocacy, policy, neighborhood revitalization, education, etc. Conference tours run either 75 minutes or 3 hours long, and will focus on South Kingstown and adjacent communities.

The conference theme is intentionally inclusive; don't hesitate to suggest a topic, tour, or speaker. And start thinking up candidates for RI State Historic Preservation Awards. Nominations are due in February 2009.

To make a suggestion, send an email to Sarah Zurier at szurier@preservation.ri.gov. If you are suggesting a topic for a tour or session, please include the names of potential speakers or organizations that might participate. Thank you!