We have another full schedule of science-related events this week, with a world-class forum on artificial intelligence, a sneak peak at new electric vehicle models, a webinar on Marys Peak ecology, a wildflower walk, and the premiere of a new movie about environmental journalism.
Thursday: Marys Peak Webinar
Marys Peak is the highest point in Benton County, and the highest peak in Oregon’s Coast Range. It’s also a very active site for cutting-edge ecological work. This Thursday, representatives from three federal and local agencies will present a webinar on some of the most important science and conservation happening on the mountain, and how it will transform the future of our local ecosystems.
Presenters include Michele Holman, Doug Glavich, and Matt Smith from the U.S. Forest Service; Scott Hopkins from the U.S. Bureau of Land Management; and Kathleen Westly from the Marys River Watershed Council. The webinar starts at 7 pm on Thursday, April 11. Register through Zoom here.
Friday: AI Forum
Whether we like it or not, artificial intelligence is here to stay. The rapid growth of machine learning and other AI technologies is creating both incredible new tools and significant dangers. To help navigate this constantly evolving new landscape, OSU’s latest Global Futures Forum is all about AI. Lasting all afternoon this Friday, the forum is divided into an introductory conversation and three panels:
- Introduction: A conversation with OSU President Jayathi Y. Murthy and NVIDIA CEO and founder Jensen Huang.
- Panel 1: Climate Science and AI
- Panel 2: Workforce and Economic Impact of AI
- Panel 3: Creativity and AI
The event starts at 1 pm on Friday, April 12, with the panels running from 2-4:45 pm. Unfortunately, in person capacity has already been reached, but you can watch the whole event virtually. Register here.
Saturday: Electric Vehicle Show and Tell
The push to electrify transportation and reduce our reliance on fossil fuels is well underway, but many of us still have questions about electric vehicles. Whether you’re thinking about an electric car, bike or scooter, or just want to check out some of the newest models of each, come to the First Congregational Church parking lot on SW West Hills Road this Saturday, April 13, from 10 am to 2 pm. Current electric vehicle owners will be on site to answer questions about their shift away from gas. This event is sponsored by the Corvallis Sustainability Coalition.
Saturday: Wetland Wildflower Walk
If your idea of a perfect Saturday morning is more slow stroll than electric car show, the Native Plant Society of Oregon’s Corvallis chapter has you covered. This Saturday, April 13, Dan Luoma and Joyce Eberhart will be leading a one to two hour walk through our own Jackson-Frazier Wetland, searching for spring wildflowers with a focus on seven species of native buttercup just starting to flower. The walk begins at the wetland’s parking lot at the end of Lancaster Street at 10 am.
Wednesday: Film Premiere
It’s a strange time for journalism, especially for the small but fierce cadre of journalists who cover the environment. Just as we need coverage of environmental issues most, many of the newspapers and magazines that once led in this kind of reporting are either shutting down or scaling back. A new film by director David Baker, “The Wonder and the Worry”, examines this tenuous moment through the lives of former National Geographic editor and OSU alum Chris Johns and his daughter Louise Johns, a freelance photographer. Next Wednesday, April 17, there will be a special screening of the film at OSU’s new PRAx Arts Center. The event starts with a talk and refreshments at 6 pm, then the screening itself begins at 7.
Tickets are $10 for the general public and $5 for OSU students. Click here for tickets and more information.
By Ian Rose
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