FOCUS Forums are a series of engaging public discussions featuring expert panelists who discuss a range of topics that impact Central New York residents, including education, environment, local government, business, health, public service, and more. Each forum consists of insightful presentations followed by a moderated Q&A session that encourages community participation. We aim to create an inclusive space for residents to learn and contribute to the issues that matter most in our community.
Date: Friday, June 26, 2026 | Time: 12:00 – 1:00 p.m. (Doors Open at 11:45 a.m.)
Registration & Location: In-Person & Zoom. Registration: Free and Open to Everyone.
This FOCUS Forum FOCUS Forum will be held in-person at One Group, with the option of virtual participation via Zoom.
Topic: Join FOCUS for a hybrid public forum where local experts will explore water conservation, watershed health, and the shared environmental responsibility of protecting Central New York’s most essential natural resource. This discussion is informed by regional conditions, ongoing conservation efforts, and the interconnected relationship between healthy land, healthy water, and thriving communities. Panelists will provide an overview of watershed ecology, conservation strategies, and environmental stewardship efforts across Onondaga County, drawing on their professional roles and direct experience in conservation science, environmental education, and land and water stewardship at the SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry, the Onondaga Environmental Institute, and the Onondaga County Soil & Water Conservation District. The conversation will highlight how these organizations work alongside communities, landowners, and local governments to protect and restore the natural systems that sustain our water supply. The Forum will emphasize practical civic participation, including understanding how land use affects water quality, supporting local conservation programs, and connecting with the organizations working every day to preserve and protect the region’s watersheds, while allowing panelists to address emerging issues and priorities as they see fit. After opening remarks from our panel, the conversation moves to a moderated Q&A, giving attendees the opportunity to ask questions and discover ways to engage with local priorities and initiatives. This is a welcoming, respectful space for community members to learn, engage, and explore ways to be actively involved in shaping the civic life of Central New York.
Language Access: FOCUS Forums are presented in English. Zoom provides optional, automated live captions and translation features that participants may choose to enable. These tools are generated by Zoom and are not professionally interpreted.
Panelists:
Mark E. Burger, M.S., CPESC, Executive Director, Onondaga County Soil and Water Conservation District
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Mark Burger has been with the Onondaga County Soil and Water Conservation District (SWCD) for twenty-four years and oversees a staff of 12 full-time and nine part-time employees. Mark is the Executive Director of the SWCD and the Program Manager for the Skaneateles Lake Watershed Agricultural Program. He received his Bachelor’s and Master of Science from the SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry in Syracuse. Mark is a Certified Professional in Erosion and Sediment Control and a NYS DEC Cooperating Consulting Forester.
Stephanie L. Johnson, Ph.D, Project Manager, Onondaga Environmental Institute
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Stephanie L. Johnson, Ph.D. is the Project Manager for the Onondaga Environmental Institute (OEI). Dr. Johnson received a B.S. in Environmental Science from Russell Sage College in 2005, an M.S. in Ecology from State University College of Environmental Science and Forestry (SUNY ESF) in 2009, and a Ph.D. in Ecology from SUNY ESF in 2013. Stephanie’s research interests include understanding human impacts to aquatic ecosystem health with the aim of implementing projects that help restore and protect the natural world, especially our vitally important freshwater resources. Stephanie works closely with OEI’s Education & Outreach Educator to implement science-based experiential learning and engagement for youth and adults alike in an effort to better connect people to nature, instill a sense of place, and empower communities to be active stewards of their local environment. Stephanie has also served as a Visiting Lecturer at SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry since 2021. Whenever possible, Stephanie likes to spend her free time walking streams and flipping rocks for aquatic insects, puttering in her gardens, and cuddling her cats.
Dr. Madeline Nyblade, Assistant Professor, SUNY Environmental Science & Forestry
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Dr. Madeline Nyblade is an assistant professor in the Environmental Studies Department at SUNY ESF. She is also the faculty co-director of the Center for Native Peoples and the Environment. She works with Indigenous Nations and community partners to study and care for our waters here in Central New York and across the Great Lakes. Dr. Madeline Nyblade is a distinguished graduate of the Winter 2024 cohort of FOCUS’ Citizens Academy!
Elevate Our Community By Sponsoring a 2026 FOCUS Forum!
Join us in making a difference by becoming a sponsor and helping sustain this impactful program! Sponsorship opportunities are available for individuals, organizations, and businesses who are eager to make a positive impact!