An expanded Science Saturday event from 10:30 a.m. to noon on Aug. 10 will wrap a busy, exciting and education-rich summer at Emporia State University’s Prophet Aquatic Research and Outreach Center.
The STEM-related theme of the day is “Saving Our Species,” which will focus on innovations in conservation practices and the importance of being educated about threatened and endangered species. Attendees will experience fun hands-on activities, expert speakers and interactive displays that include live animals.
Laura Koch, PAROC student assistant and senior zoology major, said, “I am very excited for PAROC to host this Science Saturday event! We are thrilled to be a part of helping to educate the community on these important matters.
“Conservation efforts and education on endangered species are such important environmental education tools to have,” Koch added.
Booths and presenters will include Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks, Great Plains Nature Center, David Traylor Zoo, Emporia Arts Center, ESU students and faculty from the School of Science and Mathematics and more. The Emporia Arts Center will host arts and crafts activities, while the Emporia Public Library will provide a story walk along a nearby trail.
Brian Obermeyer, director of land protection and stewardship in Kansas and Emporia State alum, will be a featured speaker. Obermeyer leads statewide efforts in Kansas for The Nature Conservancy, a global environmental nonprofit.
Science Saturday is free and open to all ages. Please register by visiting esuparoc.com.