Local Environmentalist's Grandson to Release Rainforest Documentary

The same week his grandfather was chosen as the namesake of Arshamomaque Preserve in Greenport, the younger Paul Stoutenburgh has announced the Kickstarter.com campaign for his new environmental film entitled "Preserving Paradise."

The film explores methods of tropical rainforest conservation and chronicles the adventure of three environmental filmmakers on a mission to discover solutions. The Kickstarter page will launch this weekend and a benefit sneek peek screening for the project will happen Feb. 23 from 6 to 9 p.m. at Roanoke Vineyards in Riverhead.

Funds will keep the documentary team capturing stories of rainforest conservation in Costa Rica and Madagascar, and 20 percent of proceeds will be donated to the Jocotoco Conservation Foundation to preserve critical wildlife habitat Ecuador’s Chocó Rainforest.

Overwhelmed by documentaries that describe the devastating destruction of rainforests, Stoutenburgh said he decided to produce a film that focuses on the most effective practices to preserve rainforest habitat. His production company, Earth Soul Productions, began filming the documentary this past November.

“It’s time for a film that provides solutions and inspires optimism for the planet’s most diverse ecosystem," Stoutenburgh said.

His team of filmmakers and biologists recently returned from the Amazon and Chocó rainforests of Ecuador with compelling stories of activism and preservation, but they are not finished yet, according to to Stoutenburgh.

"Many powerful examples of conservation that await the team in Costa Rica and Madagascar," he said.

Anyone that cannot attend the event can view the trailer and donate on www.kickstarter.com ­ search word “Preserving Paradise." The documentary is backed by the non-profit organization Mongabay, the largest online resource to rainforest news.

At Roakoke, the first glass and appetizers are included with ticket. A live musical performance will provide entertainment. Tickets are $50 at the door or $45 online at www.earthsoulproductions.com.

For more information on future events, visit www.EarthSoulProductions.com, facebook.com/EarthSoulProductions, twitter.com/EarthSoulPro.