History

ECOTH began as a small, course-based project that has since grown into a reality. The idea first emerged in Fall 2024, when Dr. Natasha Rebry offered a course on Environmental Literature. Following the course, work began to transform the concept into a full conference. The organizing committee consulted with research deans and conference services, and by July 2025 it was officially confirmed that the conference would move forward.

This conference would not be possible without the generous support of sponsors from both the community and the University of Lethbridge. ECOTH has been sponsored by LPIRG (Lethbridge Public Interest Group), whose generous Event Grant has made them one of our biggest supporters. The English Department and the President/Provost Office have provided financial support. The Vice-Provost (Students), Environmental Lethbridge, and Urbane Eight have contributed by assisting with swag for our participants. A big thank you to our community partners like Analog Books, who have generously donated prizes for presenters, and Sill and Soil, who have provided lovely plants as decorations. Last but not least, Fresh Fork has provided lunch, snacks, and refreshments, and Conference Services has given us valuable advice and negotiated for the food on our behalf!