From left: Co-Director KC Murphy Thompson, Filmmaker Erin Anfinson, Director/Founder Sue Eisaguirre, Filmmaker Chris Guggiari-Peel, Filmmaker Chris Smeed, Filmmaker Ali Ijaz, Filmmaker Stephen Matter, Co-Director Holly Cline, Filmmaker Mike LoveIn March of 2018, NatureTrack launched its inaugural Film Festival in the iconic, small town of Los Olivos. The concept of a film festival dedicated to the outdoors and situated in the stunning natural setting of the Santa Ynez Valley, originated with founder and director Sue Eisaguirre who conceived the idea for a local nature film festival as an extension of the non-profit NatureTrack Foundation that she started in 2011.
Los Olivos seemed the perfect choice as it not only resides in Santa Barbara county, birthplace of Earth Day, but it also lies at the gateway to the San Rafael Wilderness located within the Los Padres National Forest. The small, charming town is known for it’s easy accessibility, friendly atmosphere, wine tasting, fine dining, and unique shops.
With 3 major venues to screen selections, the NatureTrack Film Festival is proud to showcase films that offer adventure, compelling stories, positive solutions to environmental concerns, introductions to stunning natural areas, and adrenaline-fueled excursions into extreme environments. The March 22-24, 2019 festival expands upon the successes of 2018 with engaging opportunities to meet with filmmakers, learn from experts at panel discussions, delight in demonstrations, and take advantage of the opportunity to go out on the trails with experienced NatureTrack docents. 2018 NTFF films
NatureTrack introduces school children to outdoor spaces from the seashore to the inland oak woodlands of Santa Barbara County by providing cost-free outdoor field trips. Utilizing local trails and beaches throughout the county, NatureTrack instills students with leadership skills, attitudes and habits for lifelong learning, inspiring them to be respectful stewards of the natural world. Since 2011, over 18,000 students have had the opportunity to experience a NatureTrack field trip. Demand for the curriculum coordinated program has increased every year with teachers praising the docent-led excursions that align with classroom instruction.
Sue was inspired to bring her outdoor vision indoors and onscreen at the NatureTrack Film Festival so more people could enjoy and appreciate what her docents and students practice and experience in their outdoor “classrooms.”
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On March 22-24, 2019 we invite everyone to enjoy a Film Festival which supports the next generation of empowered nature lovers!
Visit NatureTrackFilmFestival.org now to order all-inclusive Passes – A perfect gift for the holidays!
