Treasure Coast history, new studies on leatherback turtles, a trip through Blue Cypress Lake, and aquaculture studies of the Queen Conch are among this year’s topics of the 19th Annual Mars Lecture Series, hosted by the Environmental Studies Council.
The series will provide eight lectures each Monday in February and March, 2006, beginning February 6th. The presentations will be at 7:30 p.m. in the Environmental Studies Center Auditorium, 2900 NE Indian River Drive in Jensen Beach. The lectures are FREE to the public, and seating is on a first-come, first-served basis.
Kicking off the series is long-time Treasure Coast historian and author Ada Coats Williams, who will provide a general history of the Treasure Coast. A retired Professor Emerita at Indian River Community College, Mrs. Williams has written several books on Fort Pierce and St. Lucie County history. She is well-known for her best-selling book, Florida’s Ashley Gang, where she reveals the true story about the end of the gang known for its bank robbing adventures in South Florida. Her lecture is Monday, February 6 at 7:30 p.m.
Dr. Richard Baker and his wife, Dr. Juanita Baker will share their experiences in Blue Cypress Lake, a preserve in western Indian River County. Through a series of photographs, narratives and poems, the Bakers will discuss their efforts to save Blue Cypress and their work with Indian River County and the St. John’s Water Management District. They have spent many hours canoeing one of Florida’s natural treasures.
Their program is scheduled for Monday, February 13 at 7:30 p.m.
Environmental Council Trustee and Second-Vice President Erik Martin of Ecological Associates has coordinated the topics for this year’s series. For additional information, please contact the Environmental Council Office at (772) 334-4643 or the Environmental Studies Center at 219-1887.