Thursday, August 11th

Optional Microscope Session: 3:30 p.m.
Presentation: 4:00–5:00 p.m.
Location: Black Butte Ranch Community Center

Did you know that North America is home to more than 4,000 species of native bees? While most of us recognize only a handful, these remarkable pollinators play an essential role in the ecosystems that provide the food we eat, the water we drink, and the healthy landscapes we enjoy.

Join the Black Butte Conservancy for “Biodiversity Begins with a B” – an engaging presentation that uses bees as a window into the incredible diversity of life around us. Through fascinating stories, surprising 3D images (3D glasses provided), and an exploration of the hidden world of native bees, you’ll gain a new appreciation for biodiversity and the vital role it plays in sustaining our environment. You’ll also discover why bees are so difficult to identify, how scientists study them, and why protecting biodiversity has never been more important.

Before the presentation, attendees are invited to an optional microscope session beginning at 3:30 p.m., where insects will be viewed under microscopes and projected onto a large screen for everyone to enjoy.

The Conservancy is delighted to welcome Dr. Jerry Freilich, a retired entomologist and nationally respected conservation scientist, as our presenter. Dr. Freilich spent 25 years as a National Park Service scientist, following earlier work with The Nature Conservancy and the Academy of Natural Sciences in Philadelphia. He concluded his National Park Service career as Research Chief at Olympic National Park. Now based in Bend, he also presents natural history programs at the High Desert Museum. His enthusiasm, deep scientific knowledge, and engaging presentation style make this a program that will appeal to nature lovers of all ages.