Citizen Science
The Spring 2009 Citizen Science Program Series includes six programs, featuring speakers on a broad range of environmental issues. Topics including Our Changing Relationship with Nature, Energy Choices for the Home, Invasive Species, Bald Eagles, Sustainable Landscape Design and Alternative Transportation Choices were suggested by Schuylkill Center members, and reflect current issues in the news. Led by local experts, each program gives participants the information and confidence necessary to make educated choices regarding these environmental issues.
Join us March 19th for a special family-friendly citizen science program on "Videophilia and our Changing Relationship with Nature." Dr. Patricia Zaradic reports on her research identifying the decline in participation in nature-based activities and its close correlation to "videophilia," defined as our growing fascination with electronic media. While parents attend the lecture, children can participate in a free nature exploration program and campfire led by Schuylkill Center educators. Learn more about Patricia Zaradic's research and writings at www.redrockinstitute.org and www.videophilia.org.
All programs in the Citizen Science Series begin at 6:30 PM with a reception and informal information session featuring refreshments and displays from visiting organizations. Lectures begin at 7pm and are followed by a Question and Answer period. Please join us for a few or all of the programs this spring. More information and additional resources on the featured topics and speakers can be found at www.schuylkillcenter.org.
Thursday, March 19th - Videophilia and our Changing Relationship with Nature
Join Dr. Patricia Zaradic for a presentation and discussion on the decline of participation in nature-based activities and the implications for biodiversity and conservation. Schuylkill Center educators are hosting a free nature play program for children during the lecture.
Thursday, April 2nd - Energy Choices for the Home, A Panel Discussion
Learn ways to address energy needs in your home, from conservation to alternative fuels. Liz Robinson of the Energy Coordinating Agency; Mike McKinley of Solaris Energy; Don Hull of Groundsource HVAC; and Angela Kassahun of The Energy Cooperative.
Tuesday, April 21st - Invasive Plants in the Philadelphia Area
Dr. Alfred E. Schuyler, Curator Emeritus of Botany at The Academy of Natural Sciences leads an engaging presentation on the invasive plants that have been the subject of considerable environmental concern in the Philadelphia area. In this lecture, Dr. Schuyler will discuss how invasives differ from non invasives and the environmental impacts of invasives from the 18th century to the present day.
Thursday, May 7th - Bald Eagles in Philadelphia - A Successful Recovery
The number of nesting bald eagles in the Philadelphia region continues to climb. Doug Gross, Wildlife Biologist and Endangered Bird Specialist with the Pennsylvania Game Commission, presents on the recovery of this once-endangered national symbol.
Thursday, May 21st - Sustainable Landscape Design / Panel Discussion
Three of the region's leading landscape architects form a distinguished panel to discuss landscape architecture at the forefront of the sustainability movement.
The program will include a guided tour of Gimme Shelter: sustainable woodland shelters on a small scale, at 6 pm.
Thursday, June 4th - Greening your Transportation Choices - Can you live without your car? / Panel Discussion
Representatives of the Bicycle Coalition of Greater Philadelphia, PhillyCarShare, and other regional transportation organizations present exciting alternatives to owning and driving automobiles in and around Philadelphia.
