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Book discussion & hike with author Lynda Mapes -- November 6
Sunday, November 6 - 1:00-3:00pm
Learn how the effects of climate change can be seen in the life of a single, 100-year old oak, how Harvard Forest science has documented this change, and how you can become a backyard climate change detective through the practice of phenology -- regular observance of seasonal changes in nature. Join Lynda Mapes, current Harvard Forest Bullard Fellow and author of Witness Tree: Seasons of Change with a Century-Old Oak, for a discussion and Q&A on the book. Lynda will be joined by John O’Keefe, Fisher Museum Coordinator (emeritus), who will discuss his unique phenological record that was the scientific basis for Witness Tree.
This event is a culmination of the East Quabbin Association of Libraries' 2022 Community Read program.
Following a discussion in the Fisher Museum, Harvard Forest researchers will lead attendees on a hike to the Witness Tree itself (roughly a 20 minute walk) with lots of opportunities to learn more on the way.
Attendees with mobility issues or young children in tow will also have the option to stay closer to the research center to learn more about the surrounding trees, or drive to within a short walk to the Witness Tree.
Please meet at 1pm in the Fisher Museum located at 324 North Main Street, Petersham MA 01366. Appropriate clothing and footwear are highly recommended. Light refreshments will be served.
Registration is not required. See our Visit page to find directions and accessibility information.
Watch the Witness Tree film, produced by Patrick Wellever and colleagues at the MIT Knight Science Journalism program:
