February 16, 2023 at 5:30 PM

Spotted Owls in Our Midst: A Community Discussion led by DNR Forest Manager Jason Emsley

In the exhibit Sap In Their Veins, we learn about how the controversy over spotted owls influenced deep political divides. For many, it seems that the debate is over. In reality, spotted owls are still struggling to survive—even within our Central Washington region. We will be joined by DNR Forest Manager Jason Emsley who will lead a conversation about the state of spotted owl habitat in our own backyard. 

February 23 at 5:30 PM

Hanford Reach: In the Atomic Field

This panel is inspired by the installation and exhibit of the same name, currently on display at the Wanapum Heritage Center. Led by artist Glenna Cole Allee, this panel will confront the realities of living in the shadow of one of the most radioactive places on the planet—a place that is both teeming with life yet which has also wrought much destruction and death.

February 28 at 5:30 PM

An inkling for the organism: A journey of biological discovery using a worm, C. elegans

We will hear from Dr. Lucinda Carnell (CWU Biology), who has spent much of her career working with a microscopic worm called C. elegans. This tiny creature may seem simple, with only 959 cells and 302 neurons, but they have helped make wondrous discoveries that show how organisms (including humans!) operate. We will hear the story of Dr. Carnell’s journey of co-discovery with CWU students, as they worked together to identify the genetic basis for different aspects of behavior, from the links between diet and diabetes, to serotonin and depression, environmental toxins and neural degeneration, and sensation in response to electrical fields and touch.

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The Museum of Culture & Environment is located in Dean Hall on the CWU Campus, 1200 Wildcat Way. Parking behind Dean Hall is free after 4:30 p.m. on weekdays and free all day Saturday.