Discovery Day 2025

Step into the heart of nature and curiosity at Discovery Day — a vibrant, family-friendly event nestled in the scenic beauty of Miami Whitewater Forest. Join the UC Center for Field Studies for a unique opportunity to engage directly with cutting-edge, interdisciplinary research at the intersection of science, sustainability, and the natural world.

Explore interactive activities and nature walks, then dive deeper with captivating talks from some of UC's leading researchers:

New this year! We’re excited to welcome Jennifer Sterling, Program Manager, Aldo Leopold Foundation. Her keynote remarks will address the question “What is Your Relationship to the Land?”

• Discover science in action as renowned ornithologist Dr. Ron Canterbury demonstrates bird banding and shares insights into the dramatic decline of bird populations.
• Uncover the rising tick threat this year with entomologist Dr. Josh Benoit, as well as the identification and health effects of these bloodsuckers.
• Learn about the human impact on nature and the connection between the two, and the sustainability efforts the field center is researching for mass reproduction.

Whether you're an alumnus, a nature lover, or just curious, come be inspired by the wild, wonderful work happening right in our own backyard.

Can't make it to the event? You can still support the Field Center by making a tax-deductible donation.

Questions about the day? Contact Hannah Trotta, Program Manager, UC Field Center.

9 a.m. - Bird Banding — Dr. Ron Canterbury
10 a.m. - Prairie Plants — Dr. Denis Conover
11 a.m. - Tick-Talk! — Dr. Josh Benoit
11:30 a.m. - Groundwater Demonstration — Dr. Reza Soltanian
12:30 p.m. – What is Your Relationship to Land? — Keynote remarks by Jennifer Sterling, Program Manager, Aldo Leopold Foundation
1:15 p.m. - Stream Walk — Isabella Leisgang and UC Field Center Interns

All Day Activities

• Prairie pollinators with Dr. Steve Matter, School of Environment and Sustainability
• Demonstrations, tours, activities and games for kids
• Native Plant Sale by the UC Conservation and Restoration Club

About the Aldo Leopold Foundation

Founded in 1982 by the children of Aldo Leopold, the Aldo Leopold Foundation seeks to advance an ethical relationship between people and the natural world. Aldo Leopold is considered by many to be the father of wildlife ecology and modern conservation for his concept of "land ethic"— the idea of uniting ecology and ethics by living in community with the land. Today, the Aldo Leopold Foundation prioritizes historic preservation, land care, community education, and cultivating leadership for conservation.

This event is open to all University of Cincinnati alumni, regardless of race, color, national origin, sex, religion, age, sexual orientation, or any other class or status protected by applicable law.