Cafe Scientifique

Thursday, May 30, 6:00-7:15pm ET
Smithsonian Science in Your Backyard

Speakers: Cate Bower, Past Chair of SERC Director’s Circle & SERC Docent, and Bruce Ogden, Director’s Circle Member, Docent

About the Talk:
The Smithsonian Environmental Research Center (SERC) in Edgewater MD, may be one of the best kept secrets in Anne Arundel County. A 2,650 acre campus in the West/Rhode River watershed provides the perfect setting for the long term study of coastal ecosystems where the Air, Land and Water come together on the largest coastal estuary in the United States. For more than half a century, SERC scientists have taken on environmental issues on the Chesapeake Bay and around the world and uncovered new ways to protect the planet. Among the most pressing issues being studied are water quality, fisheries, invasive species, conservation, impacts of CO2 and Mercury, land use and climate change. Come hear highlights of SERC’s research in this session led by Cate Bower and Bruce Ogden, SERC Docents and members of the SERC Director’s Circle, who will provide insight into some of the SERC research projects and the lessons that have been learned.

About the Speakers:
Cate Bower has lived in West River since 1994; she retired in 2017 after more than 40 years of working with nonprofits. In retirement she has focused on environmental and community issues. She served as the representative for Deale, Shady Side, Churchton, West River and Galesville on Anne Arundel County’s Citizens Advisory Committee, helping create the 2040 General Development Plan and currently chairs the Region 9 committee, crafting the region’s land use plan. Cate is also the Vice Chair of the Arundel Rivers Federation, a former Chair of SERC’s Director’s Circle and a Docent at SERC.

Bruce Ogden has been sailing and cruising on the Chesapeake Bay since moving to the area from Chicago over 30 years ago. Bruce is past Commodore of the West River Sailing Club, a member of the Antique and Classic Boat Society and is the co-founder of the Maryland Maritime Heritage Foundation. His interest in the Bay led to his work with the Smithsonian Environmental Research Center where he is a Docent and serves on the Director’s Circle. Prior to retiring, Bruce enjoyed a rewarding career in technical sales, marketing and business development. Bruce and his wife enjoy living on the West River with their five old boats.