The UC Center for Public Engagement with Science is back with its monthly feature, Cincinnati Science Roundup. Check out events and news related to science happening in May from PEWS, our collaborators, and community partners in Greater Cincinnati!

Science on Tap: EPA Research to Inform Safe and Effective Water Reuse

Wednesday, May 1st, 6:30 PM, Radio Artifact, Urban Artifact, 1660 Blue Rock StCincinnati, OH
This month Science on Tap is focused on the world of water reuse. The speakers will discuss innovative methods of reclaiming, treating, and utilizing water for beneficial purposes like environmental restoration and agriculture. They will dive deep into the concepts of water reuse, and its pivotal role in enhancing water security, sustainability and resilience, and discuss the significance of planned water reuse in communities. The three speakers, Dr. Michael Jahne, Dr. Cissy Ma, and Dr. Jay Garland are from the EPA.

2024 Midwest Regional Sustainability Summit

Thursday, May 2nd, 8 AM – 6 PM, Duke Energy Convention Center, Cincinnati, OH
The Midwest Regional Sustainability Summit is the largest sustainability conference in the Midwest, bringing together 600+ passionate and visionary leaders to share inspiring, forward-thinking, and solution-oriented ideas that propel us toward a healthier, more resilient, sustainable, and equitable future. The event will feature a full day of programming, with 80+ speakers, an exhibitor expo, an art show, breakfast, lunch, a networking reception, and more! University of Cincinnati is excited to participate as a planning partner for this upcoming event, hosted by PEWS community partner, Green Umbrella. PEWS is also a sponsor of the poster session. Register for the summit here.

a side view of a robin bird on the stones
Photo by JOHN CALLERY on Pexels.com

World Migratory Bird Day at Burnet Woods

Saturday, May 11th, 9 AM – 2 PM, Trailside Nature Center, 3251 Brookline Ave, Cincinnati
Stop by Burnet Woods in Cincinnati for a special celebration of World Migratory Bird Day! The theme of the day is “Protect Insects, Protect Birds” and will feature a variety of events throughout the day. There will be a guided bird hike that leaves from the Trailside Nature Center led by Brian Keane and Denis Conover, both from the Audubon Society. There will also be a tabling session for guest to engage with various organizations at their informational booths about conservation. There will be nature encounters that include a displays on birds and their ecosystems.

raging river
Photo by Anton Atanasov on Pexels.com

Community Stream Habitat Assessment Training

Sunday, May 12th, 10 AM – 3 PM, Rowe Woods Visitor Center Auditorium, Cincinnati Nature Center
This hands-on, feet-wet training covers the basics of stream ecology and the physical characteristics of streams that influence habitat quality. Participants will be trained to use the  cQHEI (Citizen’s Qualitative Habitat Evaluation Index), which was developed by the Ohio EPA in the 1990’s as a standardized method for citizens to collect water quality data. The cQHEI focuses on physical characteristics of streams that are correlated with the stream’s ability to support diverse aquatic life. No background experience is required. The training is geared toward educators and volunteer stream monitors, but any adult interested in aquatic resources and water quality is welcome! Tickets are on sale here.

brown and black butterfly perched on yellow and red petaled flower closeup photography
Photo by Leonardo Jarro on Pexels.com

Great Parks Pollinator Festival

Saturday, May 18th, 11 AM – 4 PM, Miami Whitewater Forest & Harbor, 9001 Mt Hope Rd, Harrison, OH 45030
Join Great Parks of Hamilton County for a celebration of their precious pollinators at the inaugural Great Parks Pollinator Festival! Explore educational exhibits, enjoy family-friendly activities, and shop unique spring crafts from local artists. Learn about the vital role pollinators play in our ecosystem and discover how you can support their conservation efforts. The festival is free to attend. During the festival there is Great Parks Pollinator 5k in collaboration with Miles for Monarchs. The Pollinator 5k is a timed, family-friendly run that allows you to support the Miles for Monarchs campaign – a nationwide effort designed to engage participants in personal wellness while supporting monarch butterfly conservation. Register for the race here.

Green Drinks with Green Umbrella

Thursday, May 23rd, 5-7 PM, HighGrain Brentwood, 9176 Winton Road, Cincinnati, OH
Green Drinks is Green Umbrella’s monthly social event that offers an opportunity to network with sustainability leaders from across Greater Cincinnati. This free event is open to anyone interested in climate action issues and getting involved in local sustainability initiatives. This month’s location is HighGrain Brewing’s new space, HighGrain Brentwood. Save the date and join for an evening of networking. For more information, click here.