Sponsored by
U.S. FISH AND WILDLIFE SERVICE
U.S. DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
with support from
U.S. FOREST SERVICE
America presently faces serious consequences of its current, high-carbon energy portfolio. Unchecked climate change, pollution, and energy-security issues are some of the consequences. As America prepares for its energy future, a broader range of energy options — including renewables — will be evaluated. The energy choices made within the coming decades will have a critical impact on the environmental and economic future of America. It is imperative that natural resources professionals, scientists, engineers, policymakers and the commercial sector join together is assessing how renewable energy sources can best contribute to America’s energy portfolio.
A diverse mix of delegates attended the congress. Delegate diversity is a staple of RNRF’s national meetings. Delegates learned about each renewable energy option, current scientific and operational impediments, and the most promising paths to commercial success. Congress objectives included:
- Discussing the state of renewable energy in America including current federal programs.Â
-  Providing an overview of each renewable energy alternatives’ science and technology, environmental impacts, commercial barriers, and science needs.Â
-  Presenting an interactive forum to discuss solutions for overcoming barriers including multi-party collaboration opportunities.Â
Ample time for delegate participation was provided following each presentation, and the second day included facilitated breakout session for more in-depth dialog. Delegate findings and recommendations will be featured in the report of the congress.
The report of the congress was provided to a variety of audiences including the U.S. Congress and its committees, federal agencies, state government (natural resource agencies and state legislatures), local and county governments, the scientific community (including RNRF’s member organizations), universities, industries based upon renewable natural resources, public interest and environmental advocacy groups, and the public.