EMAC Speaker Spotlight Series Continues August 12 at Siuslaw Public Library

FLORENCE, OR – The City of Florence Environmental Management Advisory Committee (EMAC) will host the third event in its Speaker Spotlight Series on Wednesday, August 12, 2026, from 5:30 to 7:00 p.m. at the Siuslaw Public Library, 1460 Ninth St. in Florence, in the Bromley Room.

Jerin Dinkins, Food System Specialist from the Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ), will be presenting on “Save Our Food: From Farm to Fork.” This 60‑minute presentation starts with an overview of food systems and an interactive discussion about the importance of sustainable production, consumption, and waste management practices. There will be references to why people should care about food waste and what they can do locally to prevent it. The discussion will conclude with updates on DEQ’s upcoming grant opportunities and ways to engage during Food Waste Prevention Week, September 28 to October 4, 2026. Attendees will enjoy snacks and refreshments, have access to additional educational materials, and can participate in giveaways and raffle drawings. All community members are welcome to this free event. More information is available on the City of Florence website, https://www.ci.florence.or.us/365/EMAC.

EMAC Speaker Spotlight Series Events
EMAC will host one more presentation in 2026, on Saturday, November 14, featuring Rachel Freeman, Education Manager for Oregon Shores. She will be speaking about King Tides and a hands‑on Marine Debris Mosaic Workshop exploring coastal stewardship and creative reuse. More information about this event will be shared as the date approaches.

About the August 12 Speaker
Jerin Dinkins is a Food Systems Specialist at the Oregon DEQ with over eight years of experience in sustainable materials management in both the public and private sectors. Passionate about building community at the intersection of sustainability and environmental justice, Jerin recently led a statewide engagement effort to better understand priorities for equitable and resilient food systems, facilitating conversations with communities across Oregon. Based in Portland and originally from the Rogue Valley, Jerin has a deep appreciation for Oregon’s landscapes and local food culture.

About DEQ Food Systems
Food waste is the largest single category of material in Oregon’s landfills. Nearly 40% of food in the U.S. is never eaten, even as more than 460,000 Oregonians face food insecurity. This imbalance underscores the need for systemic solutions that support more sustainable and equitable food systems. By focusing on food, the DEQ Food Systems Team has a unique opportunity to reduce environmental impacts while improving health, equity, and community resilience. In alignment with Oregon’s 2050 Vision, this work supports a future where all Oregonians conserve resources, protect the environment, and live well. More information is available at: https://www.oregon.gov/deq/mm/food/Pages/FoodWaste.aspx

About EMAC
The Environmental Management Advisory Committee (EMAC) serves as an advisory body to the City Council and City Manager for the City of Florence. EMAC supports the development of programs and actions that promote healthy, environmentally sound practices for the City and the broader community. The committee prioritizes education, community outreach, and collaborative partnerships, working to strengthen local understanding of environmental issues and advance sustainable solutions. Got Questions? Email EMAC at recycleon@ci.florence.or.us or visit www.ci.florence.or.us/365/EMAC.