Programs
Art, writing, and media in the Forest Log is contributed by participants in the Long-Term Ecological Reflections program.
The Reflections program works collaboratively with the NSF–supported Long–Term Ecological Research program, active at H.J. Andrews Experimental Forest since 1980. Both are committed to the mission of sustained inquiry—looking closely at a place as truths reveal themselves over time.
Under the canopy of Long-Term Ecological Reflections grow other programs integrating the arts and humanities with scientific observation and insight. They, too, are inspired by themes of relationship, duration, and depth, and they take a range of forms from weekend gatherings to multi-year fellowships.
Long-Term Ecological Reflections Residency
Writers, artists, musicians, and scholars visit the forest as part of the Long-Term Ecological Reflections Residency program. Their work reflects a keen awareness of the natural world and an appreciation for both scientific and literary ways of knowing. These residencies, awarded via an open application process or by invitation, support new work connected with experiences in the forest. Rather than bringing a pre-determined project, residents are invited to bring an experimental, curious mindset, to immerse themselves fully in the forest, and to let creative work develop in relationship with place.
Residents live at the Andrews Forest for up to two weeks, engage with active research, explore the forest, and create. They connect with scientists who often offer opportunities to join field work activities. To help residents get to know the forest, they are invited to visit Reflection Plots that include an old-growth grove, the pebbled beach of a rolling creek, and a mossy, light-graced site where fallen logs feed life. Since 2004, the Andrews Forest has welcomed and inspired work by over 100 residents.
Fireline Fellowship
In August 2023, lightning sparked a fire near Lookout Mountain in the Andrews Forest. In response to this disturbance event, the Fireline Fellowship (2024 – 2027) provides an opportunity for extended exploration of relationships among wildland fire, scientific research, ecological creativity, and the human imagination.
Blue River Fellowship
Blue River Fellowships are offered to established writers by invitation. In 2004, Blue River Fellows Robin Wall Kimmerer and Robert Michael Pyle were the inaugural recipients of Long-Term Ecological Reflections residencies.
Gatherings and Symposia
The Spring Creek Project hosts occasional gatherings at the Andrews Forest. Several participants in these interdisciplinary field symposia and the biennial Blue River Writers Gathering have contributed work to the Forest Log.
Opportunities to Engage
Learn about new creative work, programs, and residency and fellowship opportunities by signing up for the Spring Creek Project newsletter. You can also check out the Andrews Forest page of the PRAx website, which hosts an updated list of recent and upcoming opportunities.