August 9 Explore Coastal Maine geology 11 – 12 Lecture, 1:30 – 3 Field Hike
Dr. Stephen Norton will provide a talk and then lead participants on an exploration of the dramatic and varied geological features of Sears Island and coastal Maine. Dr. Norton, who retired from the University of Maine in 2008, received his Ph.D. in geology from Harvard University. Early in his career he conducted research with the US Geological Survey and the Maine Geological Survey, unraveling the history of crustal rocks in western New England and Maine. His research continues to the present and is concerned with chemical processes in the earth’s surface, specifically the interaction of water, rock materials and humans. HIs work has taken him to many places, including close to the North and South poles, Europe, Canada and Mexico. In recent years, Dr. Norton has led popular talks and walks on geology for Maine residents.
For this event, we will start with a short slide show and talk, to be held at the Penobscot Marine Musuem Old Vestry Building upstairs from 11am-12noon, and then continue after a lunch break with a hike on Sears Island beginning at 1:30- 3pm. Sears Island’s exposed coastal rock formations tell a fascinating story about the long and tumultuous geological history of coastal New England.
Please join us for either or both segments of this event, which is free to the public and sponsored by Friends of Sears Island and the Belfast Bay Watershed Coalition.
August 22 Family-oriented nature walk 1 – 3
Enjoy a varied and entertaining walk to explore nature on the island with expert naturalist Todd Miller. This event will be suitable for all ages.
September 25 Learn about fungi and their biology 1 – 3
With Dr. David Porter. Co-sponsored by Belfast Bay Watershed Coalition.
October 19 Explore moss and lichen 10 – 12
With naturalist Cloe Chunn; liverworts will also be covered. Co-sponsored by Belfast Bay Watershed Coalition.