Nutrients and Energy in Ecosystems

Come for a walk in the woods and investigate how energy and nutrients interact to keep an ecosystem functioning successfully.

Ecosytems are essential for earth’s survival. In this afternoon workshop, we’ll take a walk through the woods and collect some samples that illustrate how nutrients and energy move through ecosystems. We’ll discuss how the terrestrial and freshwater ecosystems of Stokes State Forest function, what they need to stay healthy, and what can happen when things go wrong. Some hands-on activities will be part of the tour. This workshop is geared for adult participants.

Your expert tour guide for the afternoon is Jon Connolly. Jon is a research biologist and the President of Sussex County Community College. His areas of research are tree anatomy and physiology, ecosystem ecology, biochemistry, and fungal physiology. Jon earned his Ph.D at the University of Maine and his Master of Forest Science degree at Yale University.

The class-tour will occur unless there is torrential rain. Bring rain gear if it is going to sprinkle. It also makes sense to bring along a small trowel and some scissors.