Presentation from Tuesday, November 12, 2024: Minnesota's Freshwater Mussels: with Zoe Schroeder
Everyone has heard of the invasive zebra mussel, but very few people are aware of the native populations of mussels in Minnesota. Native freshwater mussels provide valuable ecosystem services and are a keystone species. They filter and clean our water, and they provide essential habitat for many other organisms. Unfortunately, native mussel populations are declining due to poor water quality, invasive species, stream fragmentation, and many other factors. The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources Center for Aquatic Mollusk Programs (CAMP) has been protecting native freshwater mussel populations for over twenty years. CAMP's founder, Mike Davis, began monitoring native mussel populations in the late 90s. Mike’s legacy lives on today thanks to the passionate biologists at CAMP, who are working hard to continue monitoring existing populations, and to propagate threatened and endangered mussels to release into rivers across Minnesota and increase their populations.
Minnesota's Freshwater Mussels: Presentation Link
Everyone has heard of the invasive zebra mussel, but very few people are aware of the native populations of mussels in Minnesota. Native freshwater mussels provide valuable ecosystem services and are a keystone species. They filter and clean our water, and they provide essential habitat for many other organisms. Unfortunately, native mussel populations are declining due to poor water quality, invasive species, stream fragmentation, and many other factors. The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources Center for Aquatic Mollusk Programs (CAMP) has been protecting native freshwater mussel populations for over twenty years. CAMP's founder, Mike Davis, began monitoring native mussel populations in the late 90s. Mike’s legacy lives on today thanks to the passionate biologists at CAMP, who are working hard to continue monitoring existing populations, and to propagate threatened and endangered mussels to release into rivers across Minnesota and increase their populations.
Minnesota's Freshwater Mussels: Presentation Link
Presentation from Tuesday, October 15, 2024: Land Conservation Natural Burial Project: with Alicia Waters and Zac Willette
“There’s no better way to connect people to the land than to bury them in it.” – Joe Sehee, founder of Green Burial Council.
How can the environmentally conscious ensure that even after death our bodies help conserve natural resources, reduce carbon emissions, and protect the land? The Land Conservation Natural Burial Project, a group working to establish a conservation burial area in the Twin Cities metro area, will discuss the three kinds of natural burial, water cremation, and other ways of greening death. This conversation isn’t only about death. It is about tending the Earth, living mindfully, and dying consciously.
Land Conservation Natural Burial: Project: Presentation Link
“There’s no better way to connect people to the land than to bury them in it.” – Joe Sehee, founder of Green Burial Council.
How can the environmentally conscious ensure that even after death our bodies help conserve natural resources, reduce carbon emissions, and protect the land? The Land Conservation Natural Burial Project, a group working to establish a conservation burial area in the Twin Cities metro area, will discuss the three kinds of natural burial, water cremation, and other ways of greening death. This conversation isn’t only about death. It is about tending the Earth, living mindfully, and dying consciously.
Land Conservation Natural Burial: Project: Presentation Link
Presentation from Thursday, March 14, 2024: One Herd, Many Locations--Bison in Minnesota Today and the Future with WMC member Rena Chrysler
Rena will give a big-picture overview of all the bison locations that make up the Minnesota Bison Conservation Herd. She will describe the specific needs of bison to flourish and how the various Minnesota locations provide the best prairie habitat. She will discuss the Minnesota Bison Conservation Herd partners’ commitment to high-quality bison genetics as they maintain the herd, and how they share research and expertise.
One Herd, Many Locations-Bison in Minnesota Today and the Future Presentation Link
Rena will give a big-picture overview of all the bison locations that make up the Minnesota Bison Conservation Herd. She will describe the specific needs of bison to flourish and how the various Minnesota locations provide the best prairie habitat. She will discuss the Minnesota Bison Conservation Herd partners’ commitment to high-quality bison genetics as they maintain the herd, and how they share research and expertise.
One Herd, Many Locations-Bison in Minnesota Today and the Future Presentation Link
Presentation from Thursday February 8, 2024: Dark Skies and Astrophotography with Terry Nielsen of DarkSky International
This presentation provides some background on light pollution and the wide range of effects that light pollution causes, from limiting our viewing and interactions with the night sky; to effects on birds, insects and wildlife; to health and safety concerns. The presentation will also cover aspects of a project to establish a network of Sky Quality Meters in the region to measure the quality of the night sky at a variety of locations and monitor and report changes. Finally, the presentation will share a few astronomy photographs that were taken under the night sky and discuss the impacts of light pollution on astronomy and astrophotography.
Dark Skies and Astrophotography Presentation Link
This presentation provides some background on light pollution and the wide range of effects that light pollution causes, from limiting our viewing and interactions with the night sky; to effects on birds, insects and wildlife; to health and safety concerns. The presentation will also cover aspects of a project to establish a network of Sky Quality Meters in the region to measure the quality of the night sky at a variety of locations and monitor and report changes. Finally, the presentation will share a few astronomy photographs that were taken under the night sky and discuss the impacts of light pollution on astronomy and astrophotography.
Dark Skies and Astrophotography Presentation Link
Presentation from Thursday, January 11, 2024: Bugs Below Zero: Engaging Citizens in Winter Research with Dr. Rebecca Swenson, Dr. Amy Schrank, and Dr. Alyssa Anderson
The purpose of the Bugs Below Zero project is to raise awareness about the winter life of bugs, inspire learning about stream food webs, and engage citizen scientists in research and environmental stewardship.
Some insects (including stoneflies, mayflies, caddisflies and non-biting midges) are active in the winter months. These bugs are able to survive below-zero temperatures and can often be found on snow banks! They are also a vitally important food for trout. Researchers are examining how seasonal changes may alter these insects’ life-cycles and trout populations. Now, the research group is looking for volunteers to help with monitoring efforts and to expand the scope of this research program.
Bugs Below Zero Presentation Link
The purpose of the Bugs Below Zero project is to raise awareness about the winter life of bugs, inspire learning about stream food webs, and engage citizen scientists in research and environmental stewardship.
Some insects (including stoneflies, mayflies, caddisflies and non-biting midges) are active in the winter months. These bugs are able to survive below-zero temperatures and can often be found on snow banks! They are also a vitally important food for trout. Researchers are examining how seasonal changes may alter these insects’ life-cycles and trout populations. Now, the research group is looking for volunteers to help with monitoring efforts and to expand the scope of this research program.
Bugs Below Zero Presentation Link
Presentation from Thursday, December 14, 2023: Exploring the Mississippi by Canoe: Dam Portages and River Angels with Mary Lynn Kenknight
To celebrate her 60th year, Mary Lynn Kenknight decided to go canoeing. On the Mississippi. All 2,350 miles of it. She ordered a 19-foot canoe and maps, and enlisted two of her adult children on the adventure. After much learning and planning, they entered Lake Itasca in early May with 400 pounds of gear and planned to make the Delta by mid-August. But the river doesn’t always respect the plans of those who traverse it. With a few unscheduled layovers, the last leg of the trek is planned to be completed in late September 2023.
Exploring the Mississippi by Canoe: Dam Portages and River Angels Presentation Link
To celebrate her 60th year, Mary Lynn Kenknight decided to go canoeing. On the Mississippi. All 2,350 miles of it. She ordered a 19-foot canoe and maps, and enlisted two of her adult children on the adventure. After much learning and planning, they entered Lake Itasca in early May with 400 pounds of gear and planned to make the Delta by mid-August. But the river doesn’t always respect the plans of those who traverse it. With a few unscheduled layovers, the last leg of the trek is planned to be completed in late September 2023.
Exploring the Mississippi by Canoe: Dam Portages and River Angels Presentation Link
Presentation from Thursday, November 9, 2023: For the Love of Lichens—Minnesota Lichen Map Project with WMC members Zan Tomko and Elaine Larson The Minnesota Lichen Map is a citizen-scientist project imagined by MN Master Naturalists Zan Tomko and Elaine Larson, with the support of statewide allies, to educate and enlighten citizens of Minnesota and protect Minnesota lichens. The project is guided by traditional land-values of Minnesota’s Indigenous people, and led by members of the scientific community who are working to understand MN lichens. The project will use technology to map data about the lichen population throughout Minnesota.
For the Love of Lichens—Minnesota Lichen Map Project Presentation Link
Due to tech problems not all of the presentation was recorded; click here and you will find the Power Point Presentation and other helpful information on Lichens.
For the Love of Lichens—Minnesota Lichen Map Project Presentation Link
Due to tech problems not all of the presentation was recorded; click here and you will find the Power Point Presentation and other helpful information on Lichens.
Presentation from Thursday, October 12, 2023: Amazing Bats with Jay Ritterson
Bats are truly amazing, and their place in the process of evolution continues to matter very much. This presentation covers bats from the time of the dinosaurs to the present and reveals the evolution and distribution of bats as well as the mechanics of their flight and echolocation. Time permitting we will review how bat threats have changed and the specific threats now faced, and what we can do to forestall further harm.
Amazing Bats Presentation Link
Presentation from Thursday, September 14, 2023:Trees--Trash to Treasure: How Minnetonka Is Turning a Problem into a Resource: by Hannibal Hayes (Minnetonka City Forester)
The City of Minnetonka is in a unique situation to pursue a one-of-a-kind solution to a problem all cities in the metro area face. With the onslaught of emerald ash borer, along with continued risk and diseased tree removals, more and more woody debris is being dropped at the city’s organics site. That is why in 2020, the City of Minnetonka began implementing a wood utilization program and kicked it off by purchasing a portable sawmill. Come learn about the past, present and future of our wood utilization efforts!
Trees--Trash to Treasure: How Minnetonka Is Turning a Problem into a Resource: Presentation link
The City of Minnetonka is in a unique situation to pursue a one-of-a-kind solution to a problem all cities in the metro area face. With the onslaught of emerald ash borer, along with continued risk and diseased tree removals, more and more woody debris is being dropped at the city’s organics site. That is why in 2020, the City of Minnetonka began implementing a wood utilization program and kicked it off by purchasing a portable sawmill. Come learn about the past, present and future of our wood utilization efforts!
Trees--Trash to Treasure: How Minnetonka Is Turning a Problem into a Resource: Presentation link
Presentation from Thursday, May 11, 2023: Roads to Conservation with Christopher E. Smith
Did you know the Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT) has an Office of Environmental Stewardship? Their job is to conserve and protect the natural resources surrounding our state’s transportation infrastructure. Christopher Smith works in the Environmental Assessment Unit of the stewardship office. His presentation will provide an overview of the MnDOT stewardship program and highlight some of the work being carried out by staff to protect plants, fish, and other wildlife in Minnesota and beyond. There are nearly 12,000 miles of state and U.S. highways in Minnesota that are the responsibility of MnDOT. Roadsides provide habitat for grassland birds and many insects, including bees and butterflies. The stewardship office is also responsible for cliff swallows and brown bats that roost beneath the bridges, as well as mussels in the waterways.
Roads to Conservation: Presentation link
Did you know the Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT) has an Office of Environmental Stewardship? Their job is to conserve and protect the natural resources surrounding our state’s transportation infrastructure. Christopher Smith works in the Environmental Assessment Unit of the stewardship office. His presentation will provide an overview of the MnDOT stewardship program and highlight some of the work being carried out by staff to protect plants, fish, and other wildlife in Minnesota and beyond. There are nearly 12,000 miles of state and U.S. highways in Minnesota that are the responsibility of MnDOT. Roadsides provide habitat for grassland birds and many insects, including bees and butterflies. The stewardship office is also responsible for cliff swallows and brown bats that roost beneath the bridges, as well as mussels in the waterways.
Roads to Conservation: Presentation link
Presentation from Thursday, April 13, 2023: Beavers Are the Answer, the Question Is Irrelevant with Steve Windels
Beavers are well-known as ecosystem engineers, capable of altering landscapes on a scale rivaled only by humans and elephants. Beaver activities are generally considered to be positive, as their dams and ponds create water storage capacity, reduce downstream nutrient flows, and increase biodiversity across a wide range of plants and animals. However, they also create conflicts with human societies, including flooding and damage to roads, trees, and agricultural areas, or with real or perceived impacts to recreational fisheries. Understanding the relative contributions, both positive and negative, of beavers to various ecological, economic, and social systems is critical to watershed management, and management of beaver populations themselves.
Beavers Are the Answer, the Question Is Irrelevant: Presentation link
Beavers are well-known as ecosystem engineers, capable of altering landscapes on a scale rivaled only by humans and elephants. Beaver activities are generally considered to be positive, as their dams and ponds create water storage capacity, reduce downstream nutrient flows, and increase biodiversity across a wide range of plants and animals. However, they also create conflicts with human societies, including flooding and damage to roads, trees, and agricultural areas, or with real or perceived impacts to recreational fisheries. Understanding the relative contributions, both positive and negative, of beavers to various ecological, economic, and social systems is critical to watershed management, and management of beaver populations themselves.
Beavers Are the Answer, the Question Is Irrelevant: Presentation link
Presentation from Thursday, March 9, 2023: Cranes over Minnesota with Stephanie Schmidt
Minnesota is home to the Sandhill Crane and the endangered Whooping Crane. In the 1940s both Sandhill Crane and Whooping Cranes reached drastically low population sizes. Today Sandhill Cranes are one of the most populous cranes in the world and there are over 650 wild Whooping Cranes, a few of which will migrate through or summer in eastern Minnesota each year. While their population numbers are growing, both Whooping Cranes and Sandhill Cranes continue to face threats. Join Stephanie Schmidt, Whooping Crane Outreach Coordinator for the International Crane Foundation, to learn about the cranes of Minnesota. Following this presentation, you will be able to identify Sandhill Crane and Whooping Cranes; know the history of both crane species, the habitats they use, and the threats they face; understand the current work crane conservation partners are doing to protect cranes in Minnesota and throughout their flyways; and find out how you can be an ambassador for cranes in Minnesota.
Cranes over Minnesota: Presentation Link
Minnesota is home to the Sandhill Crane and the endangered Whooping Crane. In the 1940s both Sandhill Crane and Whooping Cranes reached drastically low population sizes. Today Sandhill Cranes are one of the most populous cranes in the world and there are over 650 wild Whooping Cranes, a few of which will migrate through or summer in eastern Minnesota each year. While their population numbers are growing, both Whooping Cranes and Sandhill Cranes continue to face threats. Join Stephanie Schmidt, Whooping Crane Outreach Coordinator for the International Crane Foundation, to learn about the cranes of Minnesota. Following this presentation, you will be able to identify Sandhill Crane and Whooping Cranes; know the history of both crane species, the habitats they use, and the threats they face; understand the current work crane conservation partners are doing to protect cranes in Minnesota and throughout their flyways; and find out how you can be an ambassador for cranes in Minnesota.
Cranes over Minnesota: Presentation Link
Presentation from Thursday, February 9, 2023: Seeing Nature through Drawing: with Vera Ming Wong
As naturalists, drawing can be a great tool for observation, recording images, taking notes, communicating, reflecting, and/or meditating. Whether your goals include self-expression, exhibition, or illustration, the process of drawing or painting can expand your awareness of nature through deeper visual exploration. It’s also an engaging tool to share with students on trips into woods or prairies.
Each artist develops their own process and areas of focus. Through some of my own illustrations and artwork, as examples of various intents or instigating thoughts, I’ll share some of my process, how it evolved, and how I continue to evolve through my work. I’ll also demonstrate a few drawing exercises that you can try, to start developing skills to see and record/reflect on paper.
My goal is to help you, as Master Naturalists, become more comfortable with the process of learning to draw, to use as a tool in your own investigations or in helping others see, experience and understand aspects of nature. You might even take a class and/or experiment on your own!
Seeing Nature through Drawing: Presentation Link
As naturalists, drawing can be a great tool for observation, recording images, taking notes, communicating, reflecting, and/or meditating. Whether your goals include self-expression, exhibition, or illustration, the process of drawing or painting can expand your awareness of nature through deeper visual exploration. It’s also an engaging tool to share with students on trips into woods or prairies.
Each artist develops their own process and areas of focus. Through some of my own illustrations and artwork, as examples of various intents or instigating thoughts, I’ll share some of my process, how it evolved, and how I continue to evolve through my work. I’ll also demonstrate a few drawing exercises that you can try, to start developing skills to see and record/reflect on paper.
My goal is to help you, as Master Naturalists, become more comfortable with the process of learning to draw, to use as a tool in your own investigations or in helping others see, experience and understand aspects of nature. You might even take a class and/or experiment on your own!
Seeing Nature through Drawing: Presentation Link
Presentation from Thursday, December 8, 2022: Waterways, Human Interaction, and the Deep History of Water in Minnesota: with Justin Blum
"Where does our water come from? Where does it go?" We'll consider the demise of White Bear Lake and therefore the ecosystem, other surprising filling and emptying of bodies of water, and what happens when we turn on our faucet or flush our toilets. How does this impact water usage and the related geological features?
Waterways, Human Interaction, and the Deep History of Water in Minnesota: Presentation Link
"Where does our water come from? Where does it go?" We'll consider the demise of White Bear Lake and therefore the ecosystem, other surprising filling and emptying of bodies of water, and what happens when we turn on our faucet or flush our toilets. How does this impact water usage and the related geological features?
Waterways, Human Interaction, and the Deep History of Water in Minnesota: Presentation Link
Presentation from Thursday November 10, 2022: Minnesota's Native Orchids: with Rosemary and Malcom MacFarlane
This presentation will include information and pictures of most of our native orchids with commentary on the information the authors have collected over the years working with the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) and the University of Minnesota's Arboretum project collecting seeds and roots of native orchids.
Minnesota's Native Orchids: Presentation Link
This presentation will include information and pictures of most of our native orchids with commentary on the information the authors have collected over the years working with the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) and the University of Minnesota's Arboretum project collecting seeds and roots of native orchids.
Minnesota's Native Orchids: Presentation Link
Presentation from Thursday October 13, 2022: Tree Communities: Do Neighbors Get Along? with Maria Park
Forests are losing biodiversity as humans alter the global climate and fragment habitats. Understanding how neighbor trees interact with each other can help us predict how forest ecosystems will change over time. Maria Park will share how she uses a mix of remote sensing and field-based studies to understand how trees cooperate and compete in the Forests and Biodiversity (FAB) experiments at Cedar Creek.
Tree Communities: Do Neighbors Get Along?: Presentation Link
Forests are losing biodiversity as humans alter the global climate and fragment habitats. Understanding how neighbor trees interact with each other can help us predict how forest ecosystems will change over time. Maria Park will share how she uses a mix of remote sensing and field-based studies to understand how trees cooperate and compete in the Forests and Biodiversity (FAB) experiments at Cedar Creek.
Tree Communities: Do Neighbors Get Along?: Presentation Link
Presentation from Thursday May 12, 2022: Minnesota’s Dragonflies and Damselflies with Curt Oien
Learn some cool stuff about dragonflies and damselflies and just how amazing they are. We will discuss both adults and aquatic nymphs. Learn about their place in nature and some of the threats that Odonata face in Minnesota. We will briefly discuss what the Minnesota Dragonfly Society has been doing and how you can get involved to help with its mission “to conserve Minnesota's dragonflies and damselflies through research and education.”
Minnesota’s Dragonflies and Damselflies: Presentation Link
Learn some cool stuff about dragonflies and damselflies and just how amazing they are. We will discuss both adults and aquatic nymphs. Learn about their place in nature and some of the threats that Odonata face in Minnesota. We will briefly discuss what the Minnesota Dragonfly Society has been doing and how you can get involved to help with its mission “to conserve Minnesota's dragonflies and damselflies through research and education.”
Minnesota’s Dragonflies and Damselflies: Presentation Link
Presentation from Thursday April 14, 2022: Minnesota Biological Survey with Bruce Carlson
The mission of the 35-year-old MN Biological Survey is to collect, analyze, and deliver data on Minnesota’s native plants, animals, plant communities, and landscapes to support conservation and management of biological diversity. Program Supervisor, Bruce Carlson, will talk about the history, current work, and future direction of MBS. Bruce will talk about some of MBS’s notable discoveries and accomplishments and address questions such as: Why a biological survey of the state? What have we learned and how have we shared that knowledge in Minnesota? How has MBS affected the conservation and management of the state’s biodiversity? How can citizen volunteers contribute to the work of MBS? The talk will provide a particular emphasis on MBS’s work with native and rare plants, plant communities, and a presentation on Minnesota Salamanders!
Minnesota Biological: Presentation Link
The mission of the 35-year-old MN Biological Survey is to collect, analyze, and deliver data on Minnesota’s native plants, animals, plant communities, and landscapes to support conservation and management of biological diversity. Program Supervisor, Bruce Carlson, will talk about the history, current work, and future direction of MBS. Bruce will talk about some of MBS’s notable discoveries and accomplishments and address questions such as: Why a biological survey of the state? What have we learned and how have we shared that knowledge in Minnesota? How has MBS affected the conservation and management of the state’s biodiversity? How can citizen volunteers contribute to the work of MBS? The talk will provide a particular emphasis on MBS’s work with native and rare plants, plant communities, and a presentation on Minnesota Salamanders!
Minnesota Biological: Presentation Link
Presentation from Thursday March 10, 2022: Minnesota Turtle Conservation with Tricia Markle, PhD
Minnesota, the land of 10,000 lakes, is a veritable paradise for freshwater turtles. Turtles are important members of our aquatic ecosystem and help to keep our rivers and lakes healthy. Unfortunately, as a result of habitat loss and degradation, road mortality, and poaching, turtles in our state are in trouble. Of the nine species found in Minnesota, Blanding’s and Wood turtles have faced significant population declines and are state listed as Threatened. In partnership with other state agencies, the Minnesota Zoo has launched a field research initiative to better understand the threats facing Minnesota’s turtles. Zoo staff are tracking turtles to learn more about their habitat needs, investigating strategies to reduce turtle road mortality, and testing measures to protect turtle nests and boost populations. Join us online to hear more about this project and learn what you can do to help turtles in our state.
Minnesota Turtle Conservation: Presentation Link
Minnesota, the land of 10,000 lakes, is a veritable paradise for freshwater turtles. Turtles are important members of our aquatic ecosystem and help to keep our rivers and lakes healthy. Unfortunately, as a result of habitat loss and degradation, road mortality, and poaching, turtles in our state are in trouble. Of the nine species found in Minnesota, Blanding’s and Wood turtles have faced significant population declines and are state listed as Threatened. In partnership with other state agencies, the Minnesota Zoo has launched a field research initiative to better understand the threats facing Minnesota’s turtles. Zoo staff are tracking turtles to learn more about their habitat needs, investigating strategies to reduce turtle road mortality, and testing measures to protect turtle nests and boost populations. Join us online to hear more about this project and learn what you can do to help turtles in our state.
Minnesota Turtle Conservation: Presentation Link
Presentation from Thursday February 10, 2022: Bobcats and Fishers in Minnesota: History, Ecology, and Interactions:
with Michael Joyce
Bobcats and fishers are native mesocarnivores that live throughout the forested parts of Minnesota. Predation of fishers by bobcats appears to be one factor contributing to a recent decline in the fisher population in Minnesota. This presentation will describe the history and ecology of bobcats and fishers and highlight ongoing research aimed at learning more about their ecology and interactions in northern Minnesota.
Bobcats and Fishers in Minnesota: History, Ecology, and Interactions Presentation Link
with Michael Joyce
Bobcats and fishers are native mesocarnivores that live throughout the forested parts of Minnesota. Predation of fishers by bobcats appears to be one factor contributing to a recent decline in the fisher population in Minnesota. This presentation will describe the history and ecology of bobcats and fishers and highlight ongoing research aimed at learning more about their ecology and interactions in northern Minnesota.
Bobcats and Fishers in Minnesota: History, Ecology, and Interactions Presentation Link
Presentation from Thursday, January 13, 2022: Population Ecology of Trumpeter Swans in the Midwest: with David Wolfson
Trumpeter Swans currently breed throughout most of the western Great Lakes region, including in Minnesota. However, there is relatively little recent information about their ecology, hindering conservation decision-making. To address current information needs, a sample of Trumpeter Swans has been marked with GPS-GSM transmitters. Results of this study will inform current and future Interior Population Trumpeter Swan conservation by providing basic information about migration, year-round movements, mortality risks, and use of agricultural and other landscapes. This presentation will provide an intro on Trumpeter Swan biology, a brief history of Trumpeter Swans in the Midwest, and an overview of the ongoing study.
Population Ecology of Trumpeter Swans in the Midwest: Presentation Link
Trumpeter Swans currently breed throughout most of the western Great Lakes region, including in Minnesota. However, there is relatively little recent information about their ecology, hindering conservation decision-making. To address current information needs, a sample of Trumpeter Swans has been marked with GPS-GSM transmitters. Results of this study will inform current and future Interior Population Trumpeter Swan conservation by providing basic information about migration, year-round movements, mortality risks, and use of agricultural and other landscapes. This presentation will provide an intro on Trumpeter Swan biology, a brief history of Trumpeter Swans in the Midwest, and an overview of the ongoing study.
Population Ecology of Trumpeter Swans in the Midwest: Presentation Link
Presentation from Thursday, December 9, 2021: My Life Among the Animals: with Gordon Dietzman:
I have met many interesting characters, both human and animal, in the course of working on conservation and endangered species management programs. But I've also run into individual animals while on personal hikes. One was a cranky grizzly I met by accident at close range known to Yellowstone visitors by the name of Scarface, although the National Park Service used the more mundane and less descriptive "Bear 211" to identify this ancient warrior that bore the scars of so many battles. Another was an ancient Siberian crane that didn't have his first offspring until he had reached his eighth decade. These creatures, among others, gave me new insight into life in the wild and our impact on it. The presentation includes stories of these characters that will illustrate the history of wildlife conservation stretching from the experiences of my grandparents through my own lifetime of observations.
My Life Among the Animals Presentation Link
I have met many interesting characters, both human and animal, in the course of working on conservation and endangered species management programs. But I've also run into individual animals while on personal hikes. One was a cranky grizzly I met by accident at close range known to Yellowstone visitors by the name of Scarface, although the National Park Service used the more mundane and less descriptive "Bear 211" to identify this ancient warrior that bore the scars of so many battles. Another was an ancient Siberian crane that didn't have his first offspring until he had reached his eighth decade. These creatures, among others, gave me new insight into life in the wild and our impact on it. The presentation includes stories of these characters that will illustrate the history of wildlife conservation stretching from the experiences of my grandparents through my own lifetime of observations.
My Life Among the Animals Presentation Link
Presentation from Thursday, November 11, 2021: Mosses and Lichens of Minnesota Forests: How many are there and what impacts might they have? with Daniel Stanton
Mosses and lichens are present across Minnesota, yet are easy to overlook and poorly understood (what even is a lichen?). Despite their small size, they are remarkably diverse, even into urban and suburban spaces. My team has been surveying forest mosses and lichens across the state, generating some of the first estimates of not only how many there are in different forest types, but also how they may be affecting the flows of water, nutrients, and pollution through our landscapes.
Mosses and Lichens of Minnesota Forests: Presentation Link
Mosses and lichens are present across Minnesota, yet are easy to overlook and poorly understood (what even is a lichen?). Despite their small size, they are remarkably diverse, even into urban and suburban spaces. My team has been surveying forest mosses and lichens across the state, generating some of the first estimates of not only how many there are in different forest types, but also how they may be affecting the flows of water, nutrients, and pollution through our landscapes.
Mosses and Lichens of Minnesota Forests: Presentation Link
Presentation from Thursday October 14, 2021: Getting to Know Minnesota Mushrooms: with Ron Spinosa
Come and celebrate the wonderful world of mushrooms. You will be amazed at the incredible variety of colors, sizes and shapes that abound in the Kingdom of Fungi. This presentation will emphasize the absolutely essential role of fungi for life on earth. The focus will then be on getting to know mushrooms. Included will be the basics of mushroom identification and a survey of some common edible and poisonous mushrooms of Minnesota.
Getting to Know Minnesota Mushrooms: Presentation Link
Come and celebrate the wonderful world of mushrooms. You will be amazed at the incredible variety of colors, sizes and shapes that abound in the Kingdom of Fungi. This presentation will emphasize the absolutely essential role of fungi for life on earth. The focus will then be on getting to know mushrooms. Included will be the basics of mushroom identification and a survey of some common edible and poisonous mushrooms of Minnesota.
Getting to Know Minnesota Mushrooms: Presentation Link
Presentation from Thursday, September 9, 2021: Reviving Heritage: Conservation Through Indigenous Culture: with Cecelia Benimon and Katie Bloome
By linking natural resource management, cultural heritage, and environmental education, Belwin Conservancy and Anishinabe Academy aim to restore an ecologically significant area of land while fostering multi-generational environmental stewardship and reclaiming Indigenous culture. This will be accomplished through establishing an education site at Belwin that is designed to meet the needs of Anishinabe Academy. Both organizations will speak about why they chose to work together, the vision for the education site, and the importance of the two-way learning built into this partnership. (Funding for this project was provided by the Minnesota Environment and Natural Resources Trust Fund as recommended by the Legislative-Citizen Commission on Minnesota Resources).
Reviving Heritage: Conservation Through Indigenous Culture: Presentation Link
By linking natural resource management, cultural heritage, and environmental education, Belwin Conservancy and Anishinabe Academy aim to restore an ecologically significant area of land while fostering multi-generational environmental stewardship and reclaiming Indigenous culture. This will be accomplished through establishing an education site at Belwin that is designed to meet the needs of Anishinabe Academy. Both organizations will speak about why they chose to work together, the vision for the education site, and the importance of the two-way learning built into this partnership. (Funding for this project was provided by the Minnesota Environment and Natural Resources Trust Fund as recommended by the Legislative-Citizen Commission on Minnesota Resources).
Reviving Heritage: Conservation Through Indigenous Culture: Presentation Link
Presentation from Thursday, June 10, 2021: Understanding Our Wild Canid Neighbors: Coyotes and Foxes in the Twin Cities Area: by Nick McCann and Geoff Miller Coyotes and foxes have become more common in urban areas; however, little is known about these animals in the Twin Cities. Area residents now have opportunities to spot these wildlife species in parks and other green spaces close to their homes, but this proximity can also generate concern about where coyotes and foxes live, how many there are, and if they carry diseases that can infect pets and people. The Twin Cities Coyote and Fox Project (TCCFP; https://tccfp.umn.edu) seeks to address these concerns by demystifying the behavior of these urban carnivores while also identifying areas that can be managed to reduce conflict with them.
In this presentation, Dr. Nick McCann (TCCFP Project Manager) and Geoff Miller (TCCFP PhD student) will provide information about urban coyote and fox life history and research, including preliminary findings from the TCCFP, which is funded by the Minnesota Environment and Natural Resources Trust Fund as recommended by the Legislative-Citizen Commission on Minnesota Resources (LCCMR; https://www.lccmr.leg.mn/index.html).
Coyotes and Foxes in the Twin Cities Area: Presentation Link
In this presentation, Dr. Nick McCann (TCCFP Project Manager) and Geoff Miller (TCCFP PhD student) will provide information about urban coyote and fox life history and research, including preliminary findings from the TCCFP, which is funded by the Minnesota Environment and Natural Resources Trust Fund as recommended by the Legislative-Citizen Commission on Minnesota Resources (LCCMR; https://www.lccmr.leg.mn/index.html).
Coyotes and Foxes in the Twin Cities Area: Presentation Link
Presentation Thursday, May 13, 2021: Where Are All the Skunks? Cameras and Camera Trapping: with Steven Hogg, Wildlife Supervisor at Three Rivers. Camera trapping is a newer volunteer project within Three Rivers Park District. It helps the Natural Resources department at Three Rivers actively monitor fur-bearing populations in the parks. A camera trap uses remotely activated camera equipped with a motion sensor to capture wild animals on film when no one is present. Learn what is involved and what has been discovered.
Cameras and Camera Trapping: Presentation Link
Cameras and Camera Trapping: Presentation Link
Presentation from Thursday, April 8, 2021: Revitalizing the Landscape with Matt Kumka, Senior Landscape Architect and
Project Manager with Barr Engineering Co.
This presentation focuses on what our development and land use decisions have wrought on the landscape, how to conceptualize the massive changes still playing out, and what we can all do about it. Landscape interventions such as green infrastructure and restorations will be highlighted as well as practical planting decisions any property owner can make.
Revitalizing the Landscape: Presentation Link
Project Manager with Barr Engineering Co.
This presentation focuses on what our development and land use decisions have wrought on the landscape, how to conceptualize the massive changes still playing out, and what we can all do about it. Landscape interventions such as green infrastructure and restorations will be highlighted as well as practical planting decisions any property owner can make.
Revitalizing the Landscape: Presentation Link
Presentation from Thursday, March 11, 2021: Minnesota Karst Hydrogeology: Dissolving Bedrock and the Power of Water, with author and professor emeritus E. Calvin Alexander, Jr. of Earth and Environmental Sciences at University of Minnesota, Minneapolis.
Learn the part water plays in creating sinkholes, caves and sinking streams and how those features affect Minnesota's groundwater quality.
Caves and Karst: Presentation Link
A few definitions:
Karst: Landscape (sometimes obscured, e.g. by glacial till) characterized by subsurface drainage, where the dissolving of bedrock created sinkholes, sinking streams, caves, and springs.
Hydrogeology: A Branch of geology concerned with water occurring underground or on the surface of the earth.
Learn the part water plays in creating sinkholes, caves and sinking streams and how those features affect Minnesota's groundwater quality.
Caves and Karst: Presentation Link
A few definitions:
Karst: Landscape (sometimes obscured, e.g. by glacial till) characterized by subsurface drainage, where the dissolving of bedrock created sinkholes, sinking streams, caves, and springs.
Hydrogeology: A Branch of geology concerned with water occurring underground or on the surface of the earth.
Presentation from Thursday, February 11, 2021: Chloride & Minnesota Waters. with Brooke Asleson, Chloride Coordinator at Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) Minnesota has a growing salty water problem that threatens its freshwater fish and other aquatic life. Chloride from both de-icing salt and water softener salt gets into lakes and streams, and into groundwater that supplies our drinking water. It takes only one teaspoon of salt to permanently pollute five gallons of water. Once in the water, there is no easy way to remove the chloride. Learn what steps are being taken to reduce chloride use, as well as how concerned citizens can address this issue. Come join us for Chloride 101 and add some tools to your toolbox to reduce salt effects, like this Minnesota chloride map!
Chloride and Minnesota Waters: Presentation Link
Chloride and Minnesota Waters: Presentation Link
Presentation from Thursday, January 14, 2021: Metropolitan Regional Parks: Gateways to Nature, or A Missed Opportunity: with Holly Jenkins, Wilderness in the City. The Metropolitan Regional Parks system contains significant regional natural resources such as lakeshore, wetlands, hardwood forests, native prairies, and groundwater recharging areas. It is considered a nature-based parks system and as such has the potential to:
· Increase native habitat for pollinators
· Provide healthy ecosystems for birds and other wildlife
· Educate and inform people how to increase their own sustainable practices
· Provide nature-based, low-impact recreation and education opportunities
· Inspire the next generation of environmental stewards
This potential, however, is at risk. New built infrastructure including skate parks, basketball courts, water parks and more built amenities are now being proposed within the regional park system. Increases in buildings, asphalt surfaces treated with salt for snow/ice removal, and manicured/treated turf are leading to further degradation of our natural environment. Ironically, much of the new construction could be financed with monies from the Legacy Amendment.
Metropolitan Regional Parks: Gateways to Nature, or A Missed Opportunity: Presentation Link
· Increase native habitat for pollinators
· Provide healthy ecosystems for birds and other wildlife
· Educate and inform people how to increase their own sustainable practices
· Provide nature-based, low-impact recreation and education opportunities
· Inspire the next generation of environmental stewards
This potential, however, is at risk. New built infrastructure including skate parks, basketball courts, water parks and more built amenities are now being proposed within the regional park system. Increases in buildings, asphalt surfaces treated with salt for snow/ice removal, and manicured/treated turf are leading to further degradation of our natural environment. Ironically, much of the new construction could be financed with monies from the Legacy Amendment.
Metropolitan Regional Parks: Gateways to Nature, or A Missed Opportunity: Presentation Link
