February 15, 2011 – March 27, 2011
Featuring: Garth Lenz
At 1.3 billion acres, the Canadian Boreal Forest is one of the world’s largest intact eco-systems, providing a myriad of benefits. Perhaps the world's greatest and most effective carbon storehouse, the Boreal’s old growth trees are extremely effective at absorbing harmful greenhouse gasses and releasing life-giving oxygen into the atmosphere. The wetlands of the Boreal filter millions of gallons of water per day, and the forest still supports a natural food web that is home to many First Nations communities.
The Alberta Tar Sands in the heart of the Boreal Forest are both the largest proven oil reserves outside of Saudi Arabia and the single largest source of oil for the United States. The proposed expansion of the Tar Sands would cover a section of the Boreal the size of Florida, imperiling our fresh water supply and stripping bare much of this vital forest.
Photographer Garth Lenz has been documenting the Boreal Forest since 1992. His images reveal the present beauty of the region and the environmental impact now underway, suggesting alternative outcomes for our Boreal Future.
Reception, February 18, 2011, 6:30 pm - 9:00 pm
Artist Presentation, February 19, 2011, 2:30 pm
The G2 Gallery is free and open to the public. Admission to special events, including artist receptions, is $5 at the door and will directly support environmental charities.