Director’s Statement

With almost 80% of Atlanta's canopy on single-family properties, I wondered: How would residents respond if they knew how unique Atlanta's forests are? This wasn't just an ecological problem for environmentalists to tackle—it was a public health crisis affecting us all. It was an urban planning and architectural puzzle, with development pressures mounting from our growing population. If Atlanta's forests are the lungs that give breath to the city, then surely the rivers are its veins, their life force flowing throughout our natural landscape. The rivers' story mattered deeply in this equation. I began to see a matrix of interconnected narratives—stories, experiences, and calls to action from naturalists, architects, artists, urban designers, historians, environmental justice advocates, and Atlanta residents themselves.

Working on this film taught me a lot about the city and myself. I learned about the concept of Radical Noticing and the Honorable Harvest—both of which strengthened my hope for this film. As someone who is often frustrated with this city because of its unfulfilled potential, I realized that the changes I seek can start with myself. It means being a better steward of the land, a better listener, a better observer, and giving back more than I take. This film is my offering to the city, my attempt to return what it has given to me. I hope you all listen closely, see clearly, and feel moved to action.