This week the American Conservation Film Festival announced the lineup for its ninth season.

The always anticipated festival never fails to bring in captivating films and speakers, creating discussion amongst festival-goers about many topics, including energy, sustainability, land, plants and animals – all under the umbrella theme of conservation.

This year’s festival is no different, with films highlighting the Gulf oil spill, the fight between residents and big coal in West Virginia, life in the rainforest and the sea and much, much more.

The festival will take place this year in historic Shepherdstown between Nov. 3 through 6, and we at The Chronicle encourage all to take part, no matter your stance on these issues. Attending a film or two will open your eyes to others’ views and will also allow you to participate in discussions with others about important issues around the world.

To learn more about the upcoming American Conservation Film Festival, visit www.conservationfilm.org.

Look for more about the ACFF in upcoming editions of The Chronicle.