Lake Lesson on “Beach Health”

Lake Lessons, The Ridges’ Thursday evening speaker series, continues on July 24 at 7 pm with “Door County Beach Health: From Beach Bum to Beach Buddy.” Door County’s 250 miles of coastline provide countless opportunities for recreation. When headlines in the summer of 2002 put beach health in the spotlight here, a rigorous program was developed by multiple agencies to identify unhealthy beaches, target potential sources for contamination, and develop plans to address concerns. Amanda Surfus, Ridges part-time naturalist and former conservationist with Door County Soil & Water, will discuss the history of these events and the remediation efforts taking place throughout the county.

To mark the 100th anniversary of the loss of one of the world’s most abundant birds, The Ridges will host a Lake Lessons program by renowned ornithologist and wildlife biologist Stan Temple. Temple will present “Commemorating the Centennial of the Passenger Pigeon Extinction” on July 31 at 7 pm. Temple uses the case of the Passenger Pigeon to call attention to the world’s ongoing extinction crisis and our relationship with other species.

Lake Lessons programs are held at the Baileys Harbor Town Hall. Admission is free. Donations are welcome.

Ridges part-time naturalist and owner of The Wild Door, Shannon Pump, will present Edible Mushrooms 101 and break down the basics on July 30 at 1 pm. A hike will follow a brief discussion. Program fees are $30/person for Ridges members and $40/person for the general public and include a field guide and mesh spore bag. Meet at The Ridges Marshall Cabin, 8288 Hwy Q in Baileys Harbor. Space for this program is limited to 20 people and advance registration is required. Register online at RidgesSanctuary.org or call 920.839.2802.