Notes

Preparation for final Empty Quarter shoot

In the middle of preparation for the final production shoot for Empty Quarter. The 12mm arrived safe and sound. The key way has a bit of movement, so I will send it with a magazine up to Charlie for service. The rest of the time is spent plotting the itinerary for the 16 days we'll be in Malheur County. Still considering taking some time to hit spots in Harney and Lake, but no final decision just yet. Lining up contacts for shooting. We'll be recording mostly agricultural and cattle ranch work in the Treasure Valley area, in the northern portion of Malheur. Trying to soak up some of the issues at play right now. Disputes over where to locate wind energy towers is a hot topic in the Oregonian. Federal government funded environmental impact studies are being conducted right now. The issue of the endangered sage grouse is being considered a close parallel to the spotted owl on the west side of the cascades. Land use issues continue to be at the center of the debate, and the economy of the three southeast counties remains in shock with high unemployment, particularly in Harney County.

March 18, 2010