Phenology program to be held Oct. 22

A program on phenology, the scientific study of periodic events in biological life cycles and how they are influenced by seasonal and climatic variations, will be held at 7 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 22, by the Ozaukee Master Gardeners.

The Zoom program will be presented by Theresa Crimmins, director of the USA National Phenology Network and an associate professor in the School of Natural Resources and the Environment at the University of Arizona.

In her presentation, Crimmins will share a bit of what we know about how phenology is changing and why this matters, with information specific to Wisconsin. She will also share practical information about how to document the timing of seasonal life cycle events.

“Seasonal events quietly but steadily occur in response to fluctuations in daylength, temperatures and rainfall patterns, and these events are threaded through our daily lives, shaping our experiences and perceptions,” Crimmins said. “As such, the timing of seasonal activity is being affected by rapidly changing climate conditions, with significant ecological and economic impacts.”

Crimmins has published more than 80 peer-reviewed articles and book chapters, is widely published and has made appearances on NPR, PBS, The Weather Channel, and Fox Weather.

Advance registration is required and may be done at www.ozaukeemastergardeners.org.