Museum Examines Climate Change in the Pacific Northwest

From wildfires to increasing snowmelt, the Pacific Northwest is likely to experience major

climate transitions. Central Washington Universty professors Susan Kaspari and Megan Walsh will discuss what climate change means for those of us who call the Pacific Northwest home during a lecture on November 14, at 5:30 p.m. in the Museum of Culture & Environment.

Kaspari and Walsh teach in the geological sciences and geography departments, respectively. Their presentation, “Fire and Ice in the Pacific Northwest,” will explain how their research helps to envision the future of climate change in the Pacific Northwest by looking into the past.

Kapsari’s research examines the impact of black carbon--commonly referred to as soot--on the melting rates of glaciers and seasonal snowpack. Walsh’s research explores how ancient charcoal deposits can help us understand past fire activity. Taken together, their work uncovers the complicated relationship between humans, fire, ice, snow, and climate change.

“Fire and Ice in the Pacific Northwest” is the first in a series of talks on climate change research that will take place throughout the 2017-2018 academic year.

The presentation will take place in the Dean Hall lobby at the Museum of Culture & Environment. This event is free and open to the public. Parking is available on the O-5 lot behind Dean Hall, located on Wildcat Way, and is free to the public after 4:30 p.m. on weekdays and during weekends.

For more information on this lecture or future events, visit the Museum of Culture & Environment website or email museum@cwu.edu.

Media contact: Dawn Alford, Department of Public Affairs, 509-963-1484, Dawn.Alford@cwu.edu.