GreenScene's getting a makeover
Thanks to many of you for participating in a reader survey this summer to help fine-tune your quarterly magazine. Next time GreenScene arrives in your mailbox, it will look different.
You told us you value easy-to-find information, quality storytelling and top-notch photography – and you'll get all three in a larger, more visual format. You'll also get more of the content you asked for: grab-and-go field guides to Metro parks and natural areas and news about trails, natural areas restoration, park improvements, volunteering and community projects. You'll find tips for new places to walk and bike, and for natural gardening, recycling and green cleaning. And, as always, class and event listings give you opportunities to explore Metro parks and natural areas with a guide.
Do you have ideas for the new GreenScene? Get in touch at [email protected].
Metro's nature publication began in 1993 with "Trip Into Nature," a listing of hikes, outdoor events and nature-themed classes. The year before, the Metropolitan Greenspaces Master Plan described the goal of Metro and other parks providers: 360 miles of parks, trails and greenways in the Portland region. Trip Into Nature introduced people to the growing number of places to get out and bike, hike and enjoy the nature nearby.
Started by Mel Huie, now Metro's regional trails coordinator, "Trip Into Nature" evolved into GreenScene in 1998. Graphic designer Teri Matias has worked on every issue since then. Until this one: after nearly 26 years with Metro, Matias retired on Aug. 5.
In 1998 with web design in its early stages, Matias says, "GreenScene's layout was designed to reflect the website – its palette, design elements and fonts.” A lot has changed in web and print technology since then and GreenScene's rebirth is timed to a major update of Metro's website.
As technology evolved, so did content. Natural gardening, restoration grants to apply for, biking and walking options, volunteer opportunities and green cleaning were added to the mix. And with each successful bond measure, GreenScene reported to readers on new natural areas like Cooper Mountain, Graham Oaks and Canemah Bluff, along with related restoration projects.
Today, 15,000 GreenScenes are mailed to subscribers. Another 10,000 go to libraries, schools and community centers. Since 2001 GreenScene has been available in digital form too. All this will continue, and with the new publication, when a natural area is featured in a cover story, nearby residents will find the new GreenScene in their mailboxes, making it even easier for more of us to get out there – walking, biking, and yes, even tripping into nature.