Dr. Serfass will discuss the use of river scat and latrines as a means of estimating river otter populations, and the use of otters as flagship species for conservation and education. Light snacks will be provided.

Our Thursday seminars are free and open to the public. Since they are directed towards scientists, they are more technical than our evening lectures. View our evening lecture lineup.

Summary: Major ion concentrations in streams seem to be increasing across substantial regions of the U.S. and elsewhere due to human activity. These increasing concentrations raise concerns for the health of freshwater ecosystems and for the quality of our drinking water. In urban streams, we find that non-point sources are substantial drivers of changes in major ion chemistry, with effects ranging from hours to decades, and from the Baltimore region to the eastern seaboard. Perhaps the largest driver of these chemical changes are the direct and indirect effects of road salt.

Our Thursday seminars are free and open to the public. Since they are directed towards scientists, they are more technical than our evening lectures. View our evening lecture lineup

Bring the family for a paddle on the Rhode River at the Smithsonian Environmental Research Center. We’ll look for wildlife, talk about research, and enjoy time outside on the Bay. Bring a picnic lunch and eat before or after the paddle at our picnic area. Instructors will provide basic paddling instruction, life jackets, and canoes. We'll look for eagles, otters, muskrats, herons, and more. Children must be 6 years or older, and anyone 16 or younger must be accompanied by an adult.

There are two trips each day: 
9 am-11:30 am & 1 pm -3:30 pm

May 18^th 
June 22^nd 
July 20^st
August 17^th
October 19^th
November 2^nd

Cost is $18 for ages 13-Adult and $16 for ages 12 and younger.

Registration Drop In, and first come, first served. 

Cash or check only.

QUESTIONS? Call (443) 482.2216.  SERC also offers group trips. If you’re interested in a canoe trip for your group or organization then please call the number listed as well.

Bring the family for a paddle on the Rhode River at the Smithsonian Environmental Research Center. We’ll look for wildlife, talk about research, and enjoy time outside on the Bay. Bring a picnic lunch and eat before or after the paddle at our picnic area. Instructors will provide basic paddling instruction, life jackets, and canoes. We'll look for eagles, otters, muskrats, herons, and more. Children must be 6 years or older, and anyone 16 or younger must be accompanied by an adult.

There are two trips each day: 
9 am-11:30 am & 1 pm -3:30 pm

May 18^th 
June 22^nd 
July 20^st
August 17^th
October 19^th
November 2^nd

Cost is $18 for ages 13-Adult and $16 for ages 12 and younger.

Registration Drop In, and first come, first served. 

Cash or check only.

QUESTIONS? Call (443) 482.2216.  SERC also offers group trips. If you’re interested in a canoe trip for your group or organization then please call the number listed as well.