“Sustainable” is a hot word right now, but what does it really mean? In Southern California we face many challenges to creating a sustainable world, and understanding those challenges is the first step toward sustainable living. The Orange County Great Park Natural History Lecture Series offers new insights into our Southern Californian environment and ecosystem, delivered by experts in a relatable format. The free lectures begin April 8th and run through June 10, 2010.
The lectures will be held at the Great Park Conservancy, as part of their commitment to natural history education and creating a Great Park . Visit the Orange County Great Park web site at www.ocgp.org for more information and directions.
Thursday, April 22, 7:00 p.m.
Dangerous Liaisons? When Cultivated Plants Mate with their Wild Relatives
Presented by Professor Norm Ellstrand, University of California , Riverside
People have genetically changed the plants we use for food and fiber for thousands of years. New scientific techniques have produced plants whose genetically “engineered” traits are spreading to nearby wild plants. Learn about this topic, so central to the Great Park agricultural and ecological missions.
Thursday, May 13, 7:00 p.m.
Citrus Goes Global
Presented by Dr. Tracy Kahn, University of California , Riverside
Citrus is so important in California ’s agricultural heritage. The University of California , Riverside has one of the most extensive living collections of citrus in the world with over 1,000 different types. The extraordinary diversity includes “something old, something new, something borrowed, and something blue.” Come “taste” the diversity!
Thursday, June 10, 7:00 p.m.
Amphibians and Reptiles of Southern California
Presented by Bradford Hollingsworth, Ph.D., San Diego Natural History Museum
Frogs, salamanders, lizards, snakes, and turtles… How did geological forces affect the development of these incredible animals? Learn about their amazing biodiversity and forces that shape their lives. In addition, our region’s diverse topography and numerous ecosystems allow for the evolution of new species.
Comments