Walk with an Eco-Ologist at Prairiewoods: Entomology

Join us on the second Tuesday of each month as we Walk with an Eco-Ologist at Prairiewoods (120 East Boyson Road in Hiawatha)! Each program will give you the opportunity to learn from a local ‘ologist and dive deeper into specific topics within the field of ecology. Come prepared to walk our trails and, depending on the topic, get a little dirty to get better acquainted with some of our plant and animal kin. We are excited to offer seven programs on the following topics: raptology (birds of prey), agronomy (farming), lepidopterology (butterflies and moths), wild ethnobotany (wild edibles and medicines), ornithology (birds), entomology (bugs) and dendrology (trees). On Sept. 13, join entomologist Matthew O’Neal, professor of entomology at Iowa State University, as we inspect the insects of Prairiewoods. Matthew focuses on managing insect pests and conserving beneficial insects in the agricultural world by exploring how native, flowering vegetation can increase abundance and diversity of all insects. Closed-toe shoes and long pants are recommended. If you have binoculars, a camera with zoom or a butterfly net, feel free to bring them. A free-will offering will be accepted, and registration is required. For more information or to register, contact Prairiewoods at www.Prairiewoods.org or 319-395-6700.