As part of its commitment to spearhead a regional response to climate change, Scenic Hudson will host a daylong Solar Smart Hudson Valley Symposium: Building Clean Energy while Preserving Important Lands. The goal is to provide critical insight into how to navigate the tough issues surrounding the rapid development of solar energy projects in support of meeting New York State’s ambitious carbon emissions-reduction goals.

The symposium will take place March 27, from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., at the Henry A. Wallace Visitor Center at the FDR Presidential Library and Home, located at 4079 Albany Post Road in Hyde Park. The cost to attend is $25.

The event will include interactive panel discussions and presentations about current state policy and market forces driving solar energy development; how planning and zoning can help communities maximize renewable energy development; responsible siting and design of solar energy projects; building public support for new solar energy proposals; reconciling solar development with the protection of farmland and natural resources; encouraging dual-use and development on previously disturbed sites; and developing a regional renewable energy plan.

The goal of the symposium is to give participants the tools and information to take concrete actions that will make the Hudson Valley a regional model for reaching state targets to mitigate climate change, while simultaneously preserving the valley’s natural and economic assets.

To register for the symposium or for more information, including agenda details and AICP and other credit availability, visit ScenicHudson.org.