Film lovers browse a table filled with books about conservation at the 2024 American Conservation Film Festival in the Frank Arts Center. Tabitha Johnston

SHEPHERDSTOWN — This coming month, the American Conservation Film Festival (ACFF) will return to Shepherdstown for its 22nd year.

The annual festival will be held from March 6-9 in Shepherd University’s Frank Arts Center, at 260 University Drive in Shepherdstown. This will be the second year-in-a-row that it has been held solely in this single location.

“The festival will showcase 28 inspiring films that share powerful stories of hope and resilience, highlighting the incredible individuals making a difference for our planet,” said American Conservation Film Festival Director Hilary Lo. “Join us for four unforgettable days of film!”

According to Lo, this will be the largest number of films the festival has screened since its temporary cancellation due to the COVID-19 Pandemic. Last year, 27 films were featured and, in 2023, 17 films were featured by the festival.

“This year’s lineup offers animation, documentary and fictional films ranging from three to 90 minutes in length,” Lo said. “From wolves to fungi, snowy owls to hummingbirds and green burials to re-wilding a historic English estate, there are topics to fit every interest!”

One of the major perks of attending ACFF, is the high quality viewing experience. Lo noted that the festival makes a point to accommodate any special needs audience members may face.

“All screenings will be presented with open-captioning, to ensure accessibility in an atmosphere of shared passion and curiosity,” Lo said. “Moviegoers can dive to the ocean floor, fly through the forests of Hawaii and travel between Yellowstone National Park and Bengal — all from the comfort of their seats.”

Another major benefit to attending the festival, rather than just watching its films at home, is the opportunity for attendees to learn more about the films from those involved with their creation.

“Engage with filmmakers and hear from special guest speakers, gaining behind-the-scenes insights and expertise!” Lo said. “Audiences will have the unique opportunity to connect with more than a dozen filmmakers attending the festival and to hear from scientists, including Dr. John Francis, subject of the Oscar shortlisted film ‘Planetwalker.'”

Lo also noted how delightful the experience can be, in attending the festival, for those who want to discuss the films and conservation, in general, with other likeminded individuals. She described the festival as being the ideal film screening experience for those interested in conservation, as attendees will be “surrounded by a community of passionate and curious individuals.”

Tickets to the festival can be purchased online, at https://conservationfilmfest.org/#pass-tix. A ticket to see a single screening costs $15 per-person. A full festival pass costs $75 per-person, providing a substantial discount of $105 to audience members. Admission for students, in grades 5-12, is free. Parking will be readily available and free at the venue.