Science & Nature   

Discover the history of the Camas-Washougal region during a guided tour of the Two Rivers Heritage Museum. Explore exhibits featuring historic tools, textiles, baskets, photographs, and other artifacts donated by local community members. Led by Julianne Lawrance, the museum's first Executive Director and a passionate historian, this engaging experience highlights the stories of Indigenous Peoples and early settlers while celebrating the rich heritage that continues to shape the region today. Held at Two Rivers Heritage Museum, 1 Durgan Street, Washougal, WA 98671.

In the event of a major earthquake here in the Pacific Northwest, are you ready? Empower yourself and take simple steps to help prepare your family and home for a potential disaster. Learn the basics: how to build an emergency kit, how to get your friends and neighbors involved, and what resources - both local and national - are available to help you prepare.

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Come learn about Energy! How did traditional fossil fuel-based sources develop?  How is Energy generated and transmitted?  What are the prospects of alternative/green sources (e.g., wind, solar, ocean)?  Learn of the pros/cons of each of these Energy sources, their impact on society, and current issues like AI and data-centers.

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Celebrate the season by creating a beautiful Harvest cornucopia centerpiece using fresh seasonal flowers, foliage, and festive accents. Learn basic floral design techniques while crafting a warm, welcoming arrangement perfect for your holiday table. Students will take home their completed centerpiece to enjoy throughout the season.

Classes are held at Ridgefield Floral & Gifts, 104 N Main Ave. Downtown Ridgefield, WA 98642.

 

In 2018 DNA evidence was used to identify the Golden State Killer, a murderer whose crimes occurred in the late 1970s.  How do forensic scientists use DNA to solve crimes?  This class starts with basics, it is designed to appeal to a science beginner even though it will cover technical information.  What is DNA?  Is it on clothing as well as in blood?  How is it analyzed and used?  How accurate is it?  This class will cover beginning DNA, DNA evidence and analysis as well as a few case studies in how DNA has solved crimes as well as exonerated innocent people.

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Explore how volcanic eruptions and Ice Age floods shaped the Columbia Gorge into the dramatic landscape we know today. Learn the fascinating geologic story behind its cliffs, waterfalls, and unique landforms.

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The forces of Nature can create spectacular natural disasters. Come learn about super volcanoes, asteroid impacts, strong hurricanes, mega-quake tsunamis, super solar storms, etc. Some of these natural disasters have given rise to ancient legends, like Atlantis. Gain a deeper understanding of these natural disasters and they impact the Earth.

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Explore the geology, plants, fish and wildlife and human history of a world-class active volcano here in our backyard. This course is led by a Geologist who has studied and visited our volcano many times.

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Explore the science behind climate change and the questions often raised by skeptics. This balanced lecture examines climate data, common misconceptions, and how scientific evidence is evaluated, encouraging critical thinking and respectful discussion. Speaker: Prof. Kyle Dittmer, Meteorologist & Hydrologist at The Native American Science Center. Held at Vancouver Community Library, 901 C Street.

Learn basic weather reading skills to help the Gardener, Hiker, or outdoor person.  Learn to read weather maps, interpret cloud formations, understanding our local climate, and gain practical weather knowledge.  Taught by a USDA-Graduate School certified Meteorologist and former NOAA/NWS forecaster. 

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