Earthworms are more than garden helpers. They shape soil, ecosystems, and even forests in surprising ways. This talk uncovers their biology, origins, benefits, invasive counterparts, and their hidden impacts.

Trees are silent witnesses to centuries of change, yet many of their most familiar behaviors remain mysteries. This talk explores some of the most surprising unanswered questions about trees, from the reasons behind autumn’s vibrant colors to why some trees just won’t drop their leaves, revealing ongoing wonder in the life of trees.

Fungi have played a crucial yet often overlooked role in human history. From the ancient consumption of bread and beer to the devastating impact of fungal diseases, discover the surprising ways these organisms have shaped our past and continue to affect our lives today.

Explore spring’s most prized edible mushroom – morels – and the many other edible mushrooms you’re likely to encounter each spring. Learn how to spot these tasty treasures, avoid dangerous look-alikes, where and when to find them, and how to enjoy the thrill of foraging responsibly.

Discover the thrill of the hunt and uncover the secrets of fall fungi. Learn how to spot key features of common fall fungi, avoid common pitfalls, and explore practical tips and tricks for safe fungal foraging while enjoying nature’s bountiful harvest.

Names shape how we understand the natural world, but they’re not as fixed as they seem. Discover how and why scientific names change, from long-standing traditions in taxonomy to modern efforts to rename species. Through stories of discovery, debate, and evolving language, we’ll see how renaming nature reveals not only new science but also a changing society.

Grasses are all around us, yet most of us barely notice them. This talk explores how to identify the most common species and understand their unique roles in lawns, gardens, and more natural landscapes. Whether in fields, prairies, or your own backyard, you’ll gain a new appreciation for these overlooked plants.

Every spring, forests and wetlands echo with the calls of our many frog and toad species. Discover how to recognize local species, explore the best places and seasons to find them, and learn simple ways you can support their survival.

Step into the fascinating world of fungi! Discover the colorful, surprising, and sometimes mysterious world of mushrooms through hands-on activities and up-close observations. Explore common mushrooms, uncover the hidden role fungi play in some of our favorite foods, and create your own mushroom-inspired artwork.

Hop into the fascinating lives of Michigan’s frogs and toads. Discover how to identify local species, recognize their distinctive calls, and explore the important roles they play in nature and our lives! Then, get creative and build a cozy “toad abode,” a welcoming little home designed to invite a neighborhood toad into your backyard. It’s a “toad-ally” good time filled with natural curiosity, creativity, and a little lighthearted backyard fun!

Discover the art and history of natural inks! Explore how oak gall ink is made and has been used to make history (even to write important documents like the Declaration of Independence!). Then learn how to make a feather quill and practice your penmanship with your creations. (*This program also can be made with other natural inks such as berries or nuts, depending on the interests of the group.)

Turn an ecological problem into something delicious! Learn how to identify, harvest, and prepare some of the non-native plants growing around us. Discover how these plants can impact local ecosystems and find a second life on your plate. Explore, taste, and rethink what it means to eat local. Your next wild-foraged meal might be growing right under your feet!.

What would we do without pollinators? Buzz into the fascinating world of bees, butterflies, and other pollinators as you discover their connections to flowers and the foods we eat. With up-close observations and hands-on activities, match pollinators to their favorite flowers and build a bee hotel to give these important helpers a place to live!

Dig, wiggle, and discover! Explore the wiggly world of earthworms and their eco-superpowers through up-close observations and hands-on activities. Perfect for curious “kids” who love nature and getting a little messy!

Slow down and shell-ebrate Michigan’s amazing turtles! Learn about all 10 of Michigan’s turtles, discover what makes each one unique, explore the challenges they face in the wild, and find out how we can help protect these remarkable reptiles. Then, paint your own turtle-inspired rock to take home!