September 9, 2026 • 5:00 PM – 6:15 PM
Black Butte Ranch Community Center

North American porcupines are quietly disappearing from the Pacific Northwest. Join ODFW biologist Mikayla Bivona and community scientist Ander Rhoads to discover why these remarkable animals matter, how researchers are studying their declining populations, and what the findings could mean for the future of porcupines in the Deschutes Watershed. Q&A to follow.

August 11, 2026 • Optional Microscope Session: 3:30 PM – 4:00 PM , Presentation: 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM
Black Butte Ranch Community Center

Discover the fascinating world of bees and the vital role they play in supporting biodiversity. Join retired entomologist and conservation scientist Dr. Jerry Freilich for an engaging look at these remarkable pollinators and the ecosystems they sustain.

June 29, 2026 • 8:00 AM – 10:00 AM
Black Butte Ranch Big Meadow Parking Lot

The Lodge Trail - the amazing nature trail across Phalarope Lake from the Lodge - needs some love. Tall bunchgrass is obscuring parts of the trail. We need energetic volunteers to dig up the pesky grass and spread bark chips to revive the trail.