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Sustainability & Nature Lecture and Cooking Series
Why Attend Sustainability & Nature Lecture and Cooking Series
Interlochen’s Sustainability & Nature Lecture and Cooking Series offers a variety of two-hour programs focusing on creative sustainability and exploration of nature. Our goal is to inspire adult learners to interact with our local environment in a positive way. We explore cooking, artistry, and ecology while providing an educational and exciting learning experience for all.
Sustainability & Nature Lectures are $20, while our food-based programs require a $40 registration fee. All events in this series require preregistration. To register, click the link below for the program you wish to attend.
Programs will be held from 6 p.m to 8 p.m. at the R.B. Annis Botanical Lab on the campus of Interlochen Center for the Arts, directly in front of the Interlochen Public Radio building. For more information, please contact Emily Umbarger at emily.umbarger@interlochen.org
Stories that Save the Earth
Join author Heather Shumaker for an evening about the power of stories to inspire people of all ages to love and protect the environment. What touches our hearts? What inspires us to action? Come share and be inspired by the power of story. Heather will share stories from “Saving Arcadia,” as well as from her new manuscript “Monarch Mountain” and other books that spark compassion for nature, with a focus on children’s books.
Heather Schumaker, Author
Heather Shumaker writes books for children and adults. She began writing books in elementary school and is now an award-winning author. The Griffins of Castle Cary is her first book for young readers. Before she became an author, Heather tried many jobs, including milk maid, tall ship sailor, llama trek guide, and fire crew. She also lived at the South Pole and sorted garbage and recycling in Antarctica. Heather now lives in northern Michigan with her family where she co-hosts the children's book podcast BookSmitten.
Date: Wednesday, June 5, 2024
Time: 6 - 8 p.m.
Registration Fee: $20
Register Here
Capturing the Garden with Watercolor
Monet painted in his garden to capture the joy his flowers brought him. Learn how to paint Michigan native pollinators with watercolor. You will observe Black-Eyed Susan, Cosmos, Purple Coneflower ,and more. You'll learn watercolor techniques to paint the parts of flowers and create a watercolor map to use after the class when you are in your own garden.
Wendy McWhorter, Watercolor Artist
Wendy is a retired Lansing School District art teacher. She is a practicing Landscape and Floral oil, watercolor and gouache painter.
Date: Wednesday, June 12, 2024
Time: 6 - 8 p.m.
Registration Fee: $20
Register Here
Honeys of the World
Join Willow and Janna for an evening of sweet exploration of honeys from around the world. You'll learn how to taste, select, and use a wide variety of honey. The tasting will cover the origins, flavors, and culinary uses of many types of honey, looking at exotic international varietals. You'll also take a walk through Interlochen's pollinator garden, with the option to visit the apiary. If you would like to visit the bees, please bring long sleeves, pants, and closed-toed shoes.
Janna Urbasic - Beekeeper
Jon Willow - Beekeeper
Janna Urbasic and Jon Willow take a stewardship approach to keeping their bees healthy and thriving and together they teach courses for NMC's Northern Naturalist certificate program.
Date: Wednesday, June 19, 2024
Time: 6 - 8 p.m.
Registration Fee: $20
Native Plants for Michigan Lakes and Shorelines
Native plants play a critical role in the health of MIchigan's lakeshores, where they help stabilize shorelines, provide critical habitat for pollinators, birds, and other wildlife, all while enhancing the beauty of lakeside homes and public spaces. In this lecture, you'll learn about the species of native plants best suited for shorelines, as well as other steps needed to enhance and restore lakeshore habitat on Michigan's lakes.
Garrett Noyes - Presenter
Garrett Noyes, along with his wife Blythe Webster, owns and operates Birdsfoot Native Nursery in South Boardman, MI. Beginning in 2018, Birdsfoot Nursery grows Michigan native wildflowers, grasses and shrubs from seed, for habitat restoration, landscape professionals and home gardeners in Northern Michigan.
Date: Wednesday, June 26, 2024
Time: 6 - 8 p.m.
Registration Fee: $20
Register Here
Biochar for Beginners
We will explore the science and practical applications of biochar, a charcoal-like substance produced through controlled pyrolysis of organic materials. Learn about its properties, soil applications, production methods, its role in soil health, carbon sequestration, impact on plant health, and climate mitigation. Whether you’re a farmer, a backyard gardener, or just an interested individual, this lecture has something valuable for everyone.
Koffi Kpachavi - Presenter
Koffi Kpachavi is the Executive Director of the Grand Traverse Conservation District. Koffi who has been a leader in the non-profit sector for over 25 years assumed leadership of GTCD on May 6, 2019. When he is not working, Koffi is passionate about environmental issues and is involved in Apiculture. He is the founder and former president of the Fremont Area Bee Club. He is also an enology enthusiast with a focus on geology and wine-grape growing around the world. He co-leads educational sessions in France and the US. Koffi and his wife own and operate a small hobby farm following sustainable practices in Beulah, where they test the use of Biochar for carbon sequestration and soil amendment. Koffi who is a life-long learner enjoys reading, music, running and has coached High School Track/Cross Country.
Date: Wednesday, July 3, 2024
Time: 6 - 8 p.m.
Registration Fee: $20
Register Here
The Butterflies (and a Few Moths) of Northwest Michigan
The Grand Traverse region is home to a large number of butterflies and moths. Learn about the many common butterflies and a few that you might never see in a lifetime of searching. A select group of moths will also be included.
Dr. Duke Elsner - Presenter
Dr. Elsner is a local renowned entomologist and bee and butterfly expert. While retired from teaching, he still can be found working on local programs through the Michigan State University Extension Office in the Grand Traverse Region.
Date: Wednesday, July 10, 2024
Time: 6 - 8 p.m.
Registration Fee: $20
Register Here
Observing, Collecting, and Preserving Insects
Learn about several methods and the simple equipment you need for observing and collecting insects. In this lecture-demonstration, you'll have the opportunity for hands-on experience in insect preservation.
Dr. Duke Elsner - Presenter
Dr. Elsner is a local renowned entomologist and bee and butterfly expert. While retired from teaching, he still can be found working on local programs through the Michigan State University Extension Office in the Grand Traverse Region.
Date: Wednesday, July 17, 2024
Time: 6 - 8 p.m.
Registration Fee: $20
Register Here
Bonsai Workshop
Have you ever wondered how bonsai are created? Join us for an interactive evening designed for anyone who is interested in learning more about the incredible art and fascinating science of bonsai. You'll create your own indoor bonsai starter with experts from the Sakura Bonsai Society, who will be on hand to guide you step-by-step along the way. You'll receive a small starter bonsai plant, bonsai pot, and instructions necessary to create your own mini masterpiece to take home.
Rod and Janet Kivell - Presenters
Rod and Janet Kivell are members of the Sakura Bonsai Society of Northern Michigan. The Society was founded in 1990 and is comprised of artists of all ages and years of experience.
Date: Wednesday, July 24, 2024
Time: 6 - 8 p.m.
Registration Fee: $20
Register Here
Botanical Gelli Printmaking
Gather botanical material outside and learn how to print in very thin, translucent color layers with printing tools that consist of paper, paint, Gelli pads, and brayers. You'll create compositions of botanical materials of different shapes and sizes. You'll learn how to use the proper tools and techniques to achieve your creative vision through an instructor-led process.
Autumn Kirby - Presenter
Date: Wednesday, July 31, 2024
Time: 6 - 8 p.m.
Registration Fee: $20
Register Here
Discovering Wild Edible Mushrooms
Did you know we have over 60 species of wild edible mushrooms in Michigan? Learn the basics of mushroom identification, popular species found in our area, and harvesting and preservation methods. You'll also learn how to grow your own mushrooms at home!
Kim Clark - Presenter
Kim has spent the past 15 years of her career at Interlochen Center for the Arts working in the IT department. In addition to her dedication to the arts, she has cultivated a passion for foraging over the past decade, becoming a Certified Mushroom Expert in the State of Michigan. Kim enjoys educating others about the natural world for both practical and healing purposes. In her personal life, she cherishes spending time with her family, engaging in activities like camping, foraging, rock-hunting, and creative projects in their home makerspace.
Date: Wednesday, August 7, 2024
Time: 6 - 8 p.m.
Registration Fee: $20
Register Here
Date: Thursday, August 8, 2024
Time: 6 - 8 p.m.
Registration Fee: $20
Register Here
Exploring Wildflower Habitats of Northern Michigan
Are you a nature lover looking for a new adventure? Join us for an informative talk and a nature walk to explore the wildflower habitats in northern Michigan. This session is designed to help you discover what it takes to be a wildflower and give you tips on how to identify specific flora. The tour will be led by our expert guide, who will provide insightful commentary on the different species of wildflowers that grow in the region, their unique characteristics, and the conditions they require to thrive. As you explore the beautiful surroundings, you'll discover the beauty and complexity of the northern Michigan wildflower habitats.
Martina Dorn - Presenter
Date: Thursday, August 14, 2024
Time: 6 - 8 p.m.
Registration Fee: $20
Register Here
Invasive Species in Northwest Michigan
Join Invasive Species Network Director Audrey Menninga to learn all the basics about invasive species. You'll learn what makes a plant invasive, common invasives in Northwest Michigan and how to identify them, and how you can help prevent and control invasive species. Many invasives are easy to find, and you may be surprised to learn of some of the species that are considered invasive!
Audrey Menninga - Presenter
Date: Thursday, August 21, 2024
Time: 6 - 8 p.m.
Registration Fee: $20
Register Here
Honeys of the United States
Join Willow and Janna for an evening of sweet exploration of honeys from the United States. You will learn how to taste, select, and use a wide variety of honey. The tasting will cover the origins, flavors, and culinary uses of many types of honey, looking at domestic American varietals. You will also take a walk through Interlochen's pollinator garden, with the option to visit the apiary. If you would like to visit the bees, please bring long sleeves, pants, and closed-toed shoes.
Janna Urbasic - Beekeeper
Jon Willow - Beekeeper
Janna Urbasic and Jon Willow take a stewardship approach to keeping their bees healthy and thriving and together they teach courses for NMC's Northern Naturalist certificate program.
Date: Wednesday, August 28, 2024
Time: 6 - 8 p.m.
Registration Fee: $20
Register Here