Biocolloquium: Lacawac Sanctuary to Present Today

By Amelia Tognoli

SC Contributing Writer

This semester’s Biocolloquium Series, hosted by the Biology Department, will start up this afternoon, March 27, at 4:00 PM in Kurtz Lecture Hall of the Moore Biology Building.

The Biocolloquium Series allows professionals to host discussions about their field of study to help students engage in the sciences and develop a sense of knowledge and passion.

Tonight’s speakers will be Craig Lukatch and Lesley Knoll of the Lacawac Sanctuary and Biological Field Station. The sanctuary is located on Lake Wallenpaupak and works to preserve the surrounding environment.

Lukatch is the President and Executive Director of the sanctuary, and Knoll is the sanctuary’s Director of Research and Education.

In addition to running a number of educational workshops, art and music programs, and children’s summer camps, the sanctuary is involved in a significant amount of research concerning both terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems.

Because of the nearly pristine lake, Lake Lacawac, located within the sanctuary, it is best known for its research regarding the effects of environmental changes caused by natural phenomenon. The sanctuary provides a workplace for young professionals to study and grow as scientists.

A representative for the Lacawac Sanctuary and Field Station says that the sanctuary helps to teach young people the values associated with wildlife conservation.

The sanctuary is listed on the National Registry of Historic Places, and it is considered to be a National Natural Landmark because of its nearly pristine glacial lake, Lake Lacawac, and the surrounding ecosystem.

The Biology Department has asked Lukatch and Knoll to present in celebration of their upcoming fiftieth anniversary.

“I’m really looking forward to this week’s Biocolloquium. I have attended some in the past and I found them extremely informative. I would encourage everyone to go,” said Lian Mlodzienski, an ESU sophomore.

The Biocolloquium is open to the public, and students of all majors are encouraged to attend. If you need special assistance, please call (570) 422-3725.

Refreshments will be provided.

Email Amelia at:

atognoli@live.esu.edu