Join the Michigan State (MSU) University Extension Conservation Stewards Program for “Conservation Conversations.” Featured topics focus on current research and management approaches, unique natural communities, and the diverse conservation partnerships involved in supporting Michigan ecosystems.

During this April 11th event, there will be time for light refreshments as well as Q and A and discussion with Elizabeth Parkinson. Participants will also have an opportunity to visit with invited local conservation organizations to find out about the work they are doing including upcoming events, and how they can get involved in local conservation efforts. MSU Extension staff will also have information about the 2023 Michigan Conservation Stewards Program as well as a variety of other natural resource-oriented programs and upcoming events.

April 11th Talk & Description:

Illuminating the Shoreline – The Influence of Light Pollution on Freshwater Environments – Elizabeth Parkinson, Oakland University PhD student and National Science Foundation Fellow

Artificial light at night is one of the most rapidly changing human impacts on the natural world, but much remains unknown. As human habitation, and illumination, of freshwater coastlines worldwide continues to grow, the importance of understanding the implications of these changes for freshwater ecosystems grows with it. A huge, but often overlooked, component of our freshwater communities are insects- their response to artificial light at night can give us greater insight into our waterways and their connected shorelines.

Speaker Biography:
Elizabeth Parkinson is the Head of the Freshwater Forum at Cranbrook Institute of Science and a National Science Foundation Fellow currently working on her PhD at Oakland University in Aquatic Ecology. She received her Master’s Degree in Biology (Aquatic Ecology) from Oakland University and her Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Education from Central Michigan University. Her research focuses on artificial light at night and how it impacts the exchange of aquatic and terrestrial materials, in the form of insects, across ecosystem boundaries.

5:00 pm: Doors open. Museum exhibits and educational table displays open; refreshments available in the lower lobby
6:00 pm – 7:15 pm: presentation
7:15 pm – 7:30 pm: Q/A with Elizabeth Parkinson;
7:30 pm- 8:00 pm: Museum exhibits and educational table displays open; refreshments available in the lower lobby
8:00 pm: Event ends

Who should attend this “Conservation Conversation” event?
– Anyone interested in nature who want to learn more about natural communities and conservation efforts in Michigan
– Individuals who have previously completed the Michigan Conservation Stewards Program interested in continuing their learning and networking/connecting with other alumni. Registration for Conservation Stewards participants is free
– Natural resource professionals who want to build their knowledge on ecosystem-based management principles
– Individuals who want to learn more about the Michigan Conservation Steward Program as well as other MSU/MSU Extension programs and events being offered in 2023
– Those who want to learn about area conservation organizations and their local conservation efforts, including upcoming programs and events

To see the complete 2023 schedule for the other 2023 “Conservation Conversations” in-person talks, https://www.canr.msu.edu/conservation_stewards_program/

To learn more about the Michigan Conservation Stewards Program, visit: https://www.canr.msu.edu/conservation_stewards_program/

If you would like to receive information about future CSP offerings, sign up here.

Questions about this event? Contact Bindu Bhakta (bhaktabi@msu.edu or 248-396-9777.