EcoRing Hosts Table at Russian River Food and Winefest

(Monte Rio, California) It was announced today, from the EcoRing table at the 3rd annual Russian River Food and Winefest that, less than 30 days after signing two professional contracts, Eco Adventures and Special Initiatives in support of the eco- friendly visitor program, are scheduled to begin this fall.

Kicking-off Eco Adventures, created by Executive Director Michele Luna of Stewards of the Coast and Redwoods are:

HIKE AND PADDLE OYSTER FEED (Book Now!!)
On September 30, 2006, from 9am to 2 pm, join Stewards for a unique opportunity to learn about the natural and cultural resources surrounding the Jenner Estuary. Suki Waters and George Zastrow will lead an exciting paddle and hiking excursion followed by a BBQ Oyster lunch at Goat Rock Beach. Experience birdlife, marine mammals, and the history of Penny Island. The cost is $40 per person; includes docent-led paddle and hike and lunch. Kayak rentals are an additional $45.

WILLOW CREEK HIKE, GOURMET PICNIC LUNCH, AND SPA PACKAGE
On October 27, 2006 from 9:30 am to 4 pm, join Stewards naturalists for a guided hike in the Willow Creek watershed. Learn about the history of this magnificent new state park. Enjoy spectacular ridge top views, enjoy an organic gourmet picnic overlooking the ocean, and then treat yourself to a healing and rejuvenating spa treatment at Osmosis Enzyme Bath and Massage in the quaint town of Freestone. Spa treatment choices include a massage, facial, or enzyme bath. Optional on your own: Enjoy the Occidental Farmer’s Market, a very special small town experience. The cost is $150 per person; includes docent-led hike, organic lunch, and spa treatment. Reservations required, (707) 869-9177, stewards@mcn.org.

Each Eco Adventure will be marketed to the general public as well as to niche groups and individuals including, churches, social groups, LGBT Tourism Guild, and other tour groups.
The adventures will be promoted by the Sonoma County Tourism Bureau through their online and printed calendar and Official Visitor Guide that will be distributed in local visitor centers.

The second special initiative will be carried out by EcoRing contractor Portia Sinnott of Lite Initiatives on Wednesday, October 11th from 3-5 pm at the Village Inn in Monte Rio.
This workshop, which is open to the public, will focus on eco-friendly disposables and hospitality supplies. In alignment with the EcoRing mission, this eco-education series will demonstrate sensible businesses practices that will lessen impact on the environment. Although the workshop is targeted to Russian River area innkeepers and other hospitality businesses, all members of the Sonoma County Lodging Association are also invited to attend as special guests.

The Sonoma County Green Business Program has agreed to be sponsors and certify EcoRing businesses that meet their criteria. This will involve a series of forms, site visits, write-ups, submittals and quarterly award ceremonies at Board of Supervisor meetings. Short case studies and articles will be written on the participants.

EcoRing is a 501 (c) (3) non-profit organization in the state of California.

“It is the mission of EcoRing to ignite a vibrant eco tourism community with participation from residents, business, local governments and visitors in the Russian River area. To this end EcoRing will facilitate the development of eco-friendly tours, events, lodging, dining, farm products and appropriate transportation by others for the Lower Russian River area while educating and aiding businesses, residents and visitors to act responsibly toward the environment.

The goal is to increase eco-tourism by marketing the lower Russian River as an eco-tourism destination. EcoRing will green local business and organizations by providing information and incentives for positive change.”