Freshwater Ecosystems | A Land Ethic Workshop

Join us & celebrated educator Ron Cisar for June's Freshwater Ecosystems 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 June program participants will enjoy a full morning of instruction & learning, including

• An introduction to the biotic & abiotic components of freshwater lakes
• A look at aquatic invasive species
• Continued guidance for successful nature journaling 
• A reading & discussion of Aldo Leopold's essay "The Alder Fork"
• Who was Sigurd Olson?
• June Nature Calendar (phenology)
• Each month will also include a look at Mother Nature's Calendar to help familiarize you with natural changes you can look for throughout the year & will finish out in true Leopold tradition, with a song. 

Watch the video below for a sneak peek of what you'll be learning!

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.

Participants may register for the entire 10-session season for $75 (This discount pricing of 50% is available until Thursday, March 9th). Attendees who register for the full programming series will receive a copy of "A Sand County Almanac" and a blank journal for use during the class. *Participants do not need to attend every session to enjoy this programming series.

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 25th
• Waterfowl Identification: March 11th
• Woodland Wildflowers: April 22nd
• Morels, Fungi, & Lichen: May 20th
• Freshwater Ecosystems: June 17th
• Butterfly Basics: July 22nd
• A Chorus of Insects: August 19th
• Ornithology 101: September 23rd
• Why Leaves Change Color: October 21st
• Nature's Recyclers: November 11th
• Winter Survival Secrets: December 2nd

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.

This program series is sponsored, in part, by Humanities Iowa

Cancellation Policy

Please note that processing fees will not be refunded. Guests may cancel their reservation for a refund up to 1 week (7 days) prior to the program date by calling 712-545-3283 and speaking with staff directly. 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 refunded, including the processing fee.