Jennifer West, Astronomy Instructor at University of Manitoba
In this workshop, I will present an overview of the kinds of objects that make up our universe: asteroids, planets, stars, galaxies and beyond. I will also try to give participants a sense of the enormous distances involved. The scale of our universe is truly mind-boggling!
Anne Lindsey, Executive Director of Manitoba EcoNetwork
How can you maintain a beautiful green space around your home without resorting to chemical pesticides for weed control? This workshop is an overview of the principles and practice of organic lawn and garden care, with tips and resources for a healthy lawn.....as well as ideas for alternatives to lawns. We will also discuss why more and more communities are moving to phase out cosmetic pesticides.
Kim Monson, Geography Department, University of Winnipeg
Ever look down when you're out walking and wonder, "What is that rock, where did it come from, how did it get there???" If you have, this workshop is for you. With the aid of rock and mineral specimens, maps and test kits, you will learn how to identify many of Manitoba's common rocks and minerals. Bring your favourite rock or mineral along and figure out what it is....or what it isn't!
Dr. Bill Preston, Retired Curator of Reptiles, Amphibians and Fishes at The Manitoba Museum
My program will be a powerpoint presentation on the reptiles of Manitoba, with emphasis on snakes. Some of the snake families and their adaptations will be covered. Many of the snake photos were taken in zoos and other live collections, as well as in nature.
Join Ward in this multi-media workshop on the basics of raptor identification. Learn about where and when to look for hawks in migration and what to look for when you attempt to identify them. Your enjoyment of these majestic birds can begin here. In the field, participants will practise identifying hawks from some of the best viewing sites in Manitoba.
Richard Staniforth, Retired Professor of Botany, University of Winnipeg
A workshop to sort out the differences between Manitoba tree species in the winter. Specimens are provided, but you are welcome to bring your own twigs, too. We will include all of the native species of conifer and hardwood trees, and also some of the commoner planted exotics, as time permits. Regrettably, Manitoba shrubs are too numerous to include in this workshop.
It is important for us to derive real medicine and nourishment from the food plants that we eat. Many herbs, plants, fruits and veggies etc. have medicinal qualities. Some tell us that in their given names. We will discuss over 30 plants that have medicinal value. And we'll have fun while learning about them.
Home to a variety of habitats and the highest biodiversity on the planet, the Andean region of northern South America is a birdwatcher's paradise. This talk showcases some of the mega-diversity of Peru and Colombia, both with over 1800 species of birds – triple the number of species found in Canada in less than one-eighth of the area. We will discuss what makes this region so rich in birdlife and how it is possible that one country could have over 100 species from a single family (ie: hummingbirds, flycatchers and tanagers, along with other one-of-a-kinders).
Randy Mooi, Curator of Zoology, The Manitoba Museum
Manitoba is the northern and western limit for many species as southern and eastern faunal elements hit their ecological limits against the boreal forest and prairies. We will focus on the surprising recent discoveries of some species of amphibians in the Interlake and beyond, as well as the clash between American and Canadian toads taking place in the province. You will be given an introduction to the trials and tribulations of amphibian surveying in the hinterland, along with some of the biological questions surrounding species range limits.
Bill Watkins, Zoologist with MB Department of Conservation
Not all of Manitoba's rare or endangered species are large and charismatic. Some are tiny and secretive, some are drab and some pose unique challenges for inventory and monitoring. All are important components of the province's bio-diversity and merit our attention. This workshop will look at a few of these species, from mole salamanders to freshwater clams, from prairie skippers to prairie crayfish. Participants will learn where these species are found, how to identify them and how to help in their conservation.
