This news just in:
If you’ve ever stopped and looked up at a tree; if you’ve ever marvelled at its reach and dynamic character; if you’ve ever wondered how it got there, and what would happen if it were taken away, then you will find value in this unique lecture series. It is, at its core, an enlightening and forward-looking consideration of the extraordinary tree.
Tickets are now on sale for the Extraordinary Tree Speaker Series and Exposition, which is scheduled to begin at Grey Roots Museum on Sept. 21. The series focuses on trees and forest ecosystems, and is a community effort aimed at increasing appreciation and level of understanding of local woodland assets. Tickets are $10.00 each or $50 for the series of six lectures. They are on sale at The Ginger Press Bookstore and Grey Roots Museum in Owen Sound, or by calling 519-376-3690.
The lecture series will draw together some of North America’s foremost ecologists to draft a compelling narrative that recounts the story of our trees. Six eminent speakers take participants from the last Ice Age, to the First Nations’ longstanding spiritual connection with trees, and eventually to the effect of human settlement on the forest ecosystem. Evidence of the tree’s contribution to health and wellbeing gives this narrative perspective, while overtones of sound municipal planning and sustainable forestry demonstrate we can lead connected, healthy lives through effective stewardship.
Program lineup:
Wednesday September 21, 2016 | 7:00pm
The Extraordinary Tree Lecture Series Opening
Guest Speaker: Barbara Heidenreich
Heritage Tree Advisor: Forests Ontario, and the Ontario Urban Forest Council
Tuesday November 1, 2016 | 2:30pm
The Private Lives of Trees
Robert E. Bailey, Ph.D.
Professor of Biology: Central Michigan University, Mount Pleasant, MI
Tuesday November 8, 2016 | 7:00pm
Songs for the Trees
Lenore Keeshig
Chippewas of Nawash First Nation at Neyaashiinigmiing (Cape Croker)
Tuesday November 15, 2016 | 7:00pm
Sawdust Memories
John Harrison
Cultural Critic, Advisor, National Heritage Achievement Award Recipient
Tuesday November 22, 2016 | 2:30pm
Trees to Live by
Dr. Karen Morrison
Adjunct Professor: York University; Steering Committee: EcoHealth Ontario
Tuesday November 29, 2016 | 7:00pm
Seeing the forest for the trees
Andrew Wilson
Professor/Coordinator: Bachelor of Environmental Design & Planning, Fanshawe College
Following each lecture an informal Speaker’s Reception will feature a range of exhibitors specially-selected for their relevance to the topic of the talk. These artists, organizations, and businesses will inspire dialogue, and offer practical advice to participants on how they can follow through with ideas raised by the day’s speaker. The receptions will feature First Nation-inspired snacks by Owen Sound Chef Zach Keeshig.
The Extraordinary Tree Lecture Series is part of The Extraordinary Tree Project, which connects a series of events and exhibitions designed to increase our knowledge, enhance our appreciation, and raise our awareness of trees in Grey and Bruce counties. It is organized and supported by a coalition of individuals and organizations that share common desire to preserve, protect, and celebrate our woodland heritage. Among the organizations supporting the project are: Grey Sauble Conservation, Grey Roots Museum, Tom Thomson Art Gallery, Fanshawe College, and Bruce Power.
Here’s more information on The Extraordinary Tree Project.
