TOPSHAM

Brunswick and Mt. Ararat high school biology students invite the public to a presentation on the findings of their long-term research projects conducted at the Cathance River Preserve in Topsham.

The presentation will be held at the Topsham Public Library, 6:30 to 8 p.m. today.

Sophomore honors biology students chose a topic to research and, with help from local scientist mentors, collected data weekly at the Cathance River Ecology Center throughout the fall of 2012.

Eight scientists, along with teacher Glenn Evans and Cathance River Education Alliance staff, helped students conduct studies and collect data in the field. Lab reports and digital presentations served as final projects.

Topics include a Cathance Preserve large mammal study, animal habitat research, forest inventory growth data, a bat study using bat-detector technology, an ongoing Cathance Preserve seasonal changes study, and a Cathance River fish study using Cathance River Education Alliance’s new underwater camera.

Tables will be set up in the library with the students’ presentation displays; students will be available to explain their studies and take questions and comments.

“This is an excellent chance to see what the Brunswick and Mt. Ararat High School students are studying in science, and to see why students are bringing a pair of boots to school along with their computer and books,” according to a Cathance River Education Alliance news release. “It is also a great way to see what a difference the Cathance River Education Alliance is making in our local schools.”

Michael Chelminski, scientist for Stantec Environmental Consulting, served as a mentor.

“Working with CREA and the Mt. Ararat honors biology students as they conduct fall Cathance Preserve field studies provided me with an opportunity to reflect on the importance of working with young people and their boundless enthusiasm, wonder and learning capacity,” said Chelminski, who helped students conduct a Cathance River fish study.

The program is the first in Cathance River Education Alliance’s winter and spring series of community programs in partnership with the Topsham Public Library, 25 Foreside Road.

Programs are free, familyfriendly and open to the public, held on the last Tuesday of each month, 6:30 to 8 p.m.

All interested members of the public are invited to attend. To find out more about Cathance River Education Alliance programs, visit www.creamaine.org.