Waterton-Glacier hosts virtual science and history week

Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park is hosting a second virtual Science and History Week live webinar series beginning at noon Sept. 13 to 16.

Parks Canada and the National Park Service have together hosted an annual Science and History Day since 2004. In 2020, the parks hosted the event as a four-day noon hour webinar series due to the Covid-19 pandemic. More than 450 participants from around the world learned about current research in the Crown of the Continent region. This September, the parks are again offering a free series of live webinars.

The series will highlight current natural and cultural research topics related to Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park and World Heritage Site. Each presentation will give viewers the opportunity to connect with park scientists and get a unique look at our partnerships, insights and latest findings.

"We are excited to once again offer the opportunity to bring Science and History Week presentations directly to interested visitors anywhere in the world through use of webinar technology,” said Pete Webster, acting superintendent, Glacier National Park.

Waterton Lakes National Park Superintendent Sal Rasheed added, “Science and History Week celebrates the long-standing cooperation between Waterton and Glacier as we conduct research about our shared cultural and natural resources.”

The public is encouraged to learn more about the research initiatives in the world’s first International Peace Park. Participants may register for presentations by filling out the online registration forms on the Crown of the Continent Research Learning Center website, https://www.nps.gov/rlc/crown/science_history_week.htm

The following is a snapshot of featured presenters and topics:

Monday, Sept. 13 — “More Humans and Bigger Fires - How are Waterton's Plant Communities Responding?” by Jenny McCune, assistant professor of biological sciences, University of Lethbridge

Tuesday, Sept. 14 — “Waterton-Glacier International Dark Sky Park” with Iree Wheeler, Ph.D. candidate, Utah State University; Mark Biel, wildlife biologist, Glacier National Park; and Ashley Wruth, visitor experience product development officer, Waterton Lakes National Park

Wednesday, Sept. 15 — “Canada Lynx in Glacier National Park” by

Alissa Anderson, Master of Science degree candidate, Washington State University

Thursday, Sept. 16 — “Supporting Indigenous-led Conservation and Restoration, and Indigenous Engagement from Paahtómahksikimi/Waterton Lakes National Park” with Kimberly Pearson, nature legacy ecosystem scientist, Waterton Lakes National Park; Carleigh Grier-Stewart, knowledge weaver, Waterton Lakes National Park; Joseph Many Fingers, indigenous liaison officer, Waterton Lakes National Park; and Elliot Fox, assistant project manager, Blackfoot Confederacy Trout Recovery Project