Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is a “Confluence”?
A: As the postcard and website says, a Confluence is “the point where multiple rivers or weather patterns flow together to mix and become stronger.” We’re using the metaphor of rivers merging to describe many movements flowing together. ”Confluence” also describes weather patterns and fronts that create storms when they meet - at the Climate Confluence we will prepare for the storms that are coming, and respond with lightning strikes, thunderous crowds, and nourishing rains of our own.
Q: The postcard says it starts July 27th but the website says July 30th. Why the difference?
A: Wednesday July 30th is the day to arrive, register, and get settled in. On wednesday evening we will hold the opening event to kick off the Climate Confluence, and the bulk of the Climate Confluence will be Thursday July 31st through Sunday August 3rd.
July 27th through July 29th is a three-day set-up period, where we will be building example models of self-sufficient living and preparing the space for everyone to come. If you want to come help set up and learn skills in the process (or offer skills you know), then let us know!
Q: I can’t come for the whole time, what should I do?
A: Come for however long you can! We know that people are busy with work, family, and other plans, and expect that people will come in and out. If you can stay the whole time that’s even better! Check the registration form to register for individual days. The registration cost for the whole time is $50-200, wheras the daily cost per day is $15-50. (All costs are sliding scale, and no one will be turned away for lack of funds)
Q: How do I get there?
A: Check the “Getting There” section of the website. There are driving directions, and if you are coming by car please car-pool and post to the ride-share if you have extra space. New York City’s Metro North train line stops in Poughkeepsie, there is an Amtrak station in Rhinecliff, and Adirondack Trailways has a bus terminal in Rosendale. We will post information about daily shuttle pick-ups at each of these locations shortly.
Q: Can I bring my kids?
A: Yes!! Please!! There will be childcare provided throughout, please make a note of this on your registration form if you need it. If your kids are between age 13-18 they can participate in the Youth Track - you can find more information about the Youth Track on the website.
Q: Is this just a camp-out thing or will there be beds and houses?
A: Most Confluence participants will be camping, although cabins and lodges are available for those who need extra facilities based on age and/or handicap accessibility. If you would like to stay in a lodge or cabin please call 202-215-1720 ahead of time to book a bed.
Q: Is there a price difference with the different housing options?
A: Epworth Camp and Retreat Center is charging us more for lodges and cabins, but the registration cost for the Confluence will not be more if you need these housing options because of age or physical needs. However, if you simply want a cabin because it is more comfortable but do not require it, we will ask you to pay the extra to cover the costs.
Q: What’s the deal with this “sliding scale”?
A: Sliding scales are used to be more accessible to people from different income and class backgrounds. Those who can afford to should pay at the upper end, which makes it possible for anyone to attend regardless of their ability to pay. Because of our high costs in putting on this event, the sliding scale does not start at $0, but no one will be turned away for lack of funds. We encourage people to do fundraising to cover their registration costs, and can provide materials and ideas to help you do this.
Q: What kinds of facilities will be there?
A: Check http://www.epworthcenter.com
Q: Is food included?
A: Yes, food is included in your registration fees and will be provided by a central kitchen. Due to cost and sanitation, the central kitchen will only cook vegan food (no meat or dairy) and a separate meat and dairy kitchen will provide supplemental items. We are working to get most food donated locally, and ask that all participants try to bring some food staples with them to donate to the kitchen. In addition, bring any snacks and extra food items that you know you’ll want to have.
Q: What should I bring?
A: Check the “what to bring and expect” section of the website. In general, bring rain gear, camping equipment, toiletries, some food snacks and staples, and some writing materials. And of course, bring your friends, family, and co-workers!
Q: I’m in a wheelchair - does that mean I can’t come?
A: Please come! We selected Epworth Camp and Retreat Center as our site specifically so that we could meet in an outdoor rural place that still had enough facilities for people in wheelchairs or with other needs. Please contact us to let us know that you will be coming, so that we can talk about your needs and make sure that you are comfortable and able to participate.
Q: Will this be some weird lily-white hippy thing like other environmental events?
A: Definitely not - this will NOT be your average environmental gathering. There are lots of people coming who have never been camping before. Confluence organizers, participants, and workshop facilitators come from a wide range of communities and backgrounds, and the Confluence is meant to be a space to connect and learn from each others’ struggles.
Q: Will people be drinking and doing drugs?
A: NO. The Confluence will be drug and alcohol free. Illegal substances, regardless of what we might think of the laws around them, can bring the unwanted attention of police, and we want to keep this space safe for everyone. Introducing alcohol to a space greatly increases the number of sexual assaults, and can also cause difficult situations for recovering alcoholics. Please help us keep this space safe and healthy for all participants!