FALL 2026 CLASSES


Membership and registration for classes for the Fall 2026 term have closed. Fall 2026 classes are listed below.

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062 - Insect Apocalypse: Collapse of the Insect World
Recent scientific studies worldwide have documented alarming rates of decline in insect biomass, diversity, and range. One of many examples is the coastal California monarch butterfly population, which has dropped by more than 95% since the 1980’s. The so-called “insect apocalypse” is harmful to both humans and the natural world. In this set of three presentations, we will consider:

1. Why we should care – We will learn why biodiversity is important, what insects contribute to the natural world, and how an appreciation of “the little things that run the world” can enrich our lives.
2. What it is and why it is happening – We will review studies that have documented insect decline and look at likely causes, including climate change, agricultural intensification, pesticide use, habitat loss, invasive species, and light pollution.
3. How we can help – Each of us can have a positive impact on the insect populations around us. We will learn simple changes that can make our world more insect friendly while simultaneously cultivating rewarding connections to nature.   (Class limit:  50)
Mon 10/19/26, 1:00 PM-2:00 PM
Tue 10/20/26, 1:00 PM-2:00 PM
Thu 10/22/26, 1:00 PM-2:00 PM

Zoom
 
Shelley Hermundstad Jansky
Shelley is a retired Research Geneticist for the U.S.D.A. and a Professor Emeritus, University of Wisconsin.
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