Freshwater Mussel Finds
December 13, 2024
Hellbranch Meadows Controlled Burn
December 27, 2024
MAD helped facilitate the production of Vernal Poolooza and had several staff members present at the conference.
For over 20 years, MAD has hosted a Wetland Workshop at Highlands Park in Westerville.
Group photo from the second Women in Environmental Science panel. 2024's theme was environmental careers focused on water.
A communal art project titled "Without Wetlands We Wouldn't Have..."
Kids got to select a wetland creature, color it and add it to our wetland masterpiece.
Jon, summer intern, helps kids discover wetland macroinvertebrates at our Wetland Wednesday program in Powell.
Nick, our herpetologist, showing kids frogs collected at a Frog Friday event at Highlands Park.
At MAD Scientist Associates, educating others on the value of wetlands, biodiversity, and other natural resources, is part of our mission. We consider ourselves lucky to have opportunities and partnerships with local municipalities, parks, and education-centered organizations. We couldn’t do programs like Frog Friday or Wetland Wednesdays without support from communities that value wetlands.
Also, as a woman-owned business we want to highlight other women working in our field, and have started hosting Women in Science events. Since 2023, we’ve had over 20 professionals from around the state participate as panelists. Our hope is for students and community members will have exposure to careers in ecology and environmental science, and build a network of women scientists across the state.
Whether it’s a tabled vendor space or hosting a wetland exploration event, we always find folks that are curious to learn about our work. Often some of the most meaningful connections occur when a passerby is drawn to our table by happenstance. Holding a tadpole can rekindle childhood memories of playing in the wild. Parents accompanying their kids at a school function may learn for the first time that dragonflies are underwater predators before taking to the sky. And we’re always happy to address flimflam and misconceptions about wetlands, wildlife, and environmental concerns.
This year, we have hosted, attended, volunteered at, and sponsored many events centered on ecological advocacy and appreciation. Our estimated reach is over 3,000 people! Above are some photos we’ve collected that showcase the community you can build with a little effort and outreach.
