Butterfly Basics + Pond Study | A Land Ethic Workshop

Join us & celebrated educator Ron Cisar for July's Butterfly Basics session of "A Land Ethic Workshop." This program will be held at Hitchcock Nature Center and is perfect for anyone with an interest in conservation and a desire to develop a better understanding of the natural world outside their own front door. 

Our July program participants will enjoy a full morning of instruction & learning, including:

• June At A Glance: A review of material covered in June's program, "Freshwater Ecosystems"
• A look at Aldo Leopold's essay, "Prairie Birthday" 
• Mother Nature's Calendar for July: Familiarize yourself with natural changes you can look for throughout the year.
• Butterfly Basics: A look at butterfly characteristics and examples of butterfly family representatives.
• Pond Study: A study of the living and non-living components of a freshwater pond ecosystem.
• Programming will finish out in true Leopold tradition, with a song. 

Please come prepared for a short hike and pond study by wearing appropriate shoes and clothing and bringing insect spray, sunscreen, and water.

This program is intended for participants aged 14 and older with an interest in the natural world. No experience or prior knowledge is required to participate. Online pre-registration is required as space is limited. For questions not answered online please call 712-545-3283.

About "A Land Ethic Workshop"

Following the life work of naturalist Aldo Leopold, participants in this unique, 10-month-long programming series will gain a deeper understanding of our local ecosystems through study and discussion of seasonal ecology and will connect with others who share a passion for nature.

Program topics and dates include:

• A Good Oak (free introductory program): February 24th
• Waterfowl Identification: March 23rd 
• Woodland Wildflowers: April 13th
• Morels, Fungi, & Lichen: May 11th
• Freshwater Ecosystems: June 15th
• Butterfly Basics: July 13th
• A Chorus of Insects: August 10th
• Ornithology 101: September 14th
• Why Leaves Change Color: October 19th
• Nature's Recyclers: November 9th
• Winter Survival Secrets: December 14th

About Ron Cisar

"A Land Ethic Workshop" is created and taught by biologist and Leopold scholar Ron Cisar.  Ron taught science and biology in the Omaha Public Schools district for 32 years and at Iowa Western Community College as assistant Professor Emeritus until 2017. He is nationally recognized as a singer-songwriter, has spent time leading educational and research programs in national parks, and is the recipient of numerous awards for excellence in education.

Cancellation Policy

Guests may cancel their reservation for a full refund up to 1 week (7 days) prior to the program date by calling 712-545-3283 and speaking with staff directly. Processing fees will not be refunded. Cancellations received less than 1 week (7 days) in advance of the event will not be refunded. Fees for programs canceled by Pottawattamie Conservation due to weather or other circumstances will be fully refunded. 

Registration confirmation and event details, including important updates in the event of weather or other circumstances, will be sent to the email address entered when registering. Make sure to check junk/spam folders. Pottawattamie Conservation is not responsible for missed emails.