Insect Appreciation: Enhance your Connection with the Natural World

Instructors: Val Cervenka, MS Entomology, Board-certified Forensic Entomologist and DNR Forest Entomologist (retired) and Sarah Palm, Nature-Based Therapeutic Services Program Specialist and On-site Program Coordinator
 

Part of the Arboretum's Nature-Based Therapeutics Onsite Programming.

Slowing down our hectic pace allows us the chance to experience the world of insects in an intentional way. Join Entomologist Val Cervenka as we explore nature from a bug's-eye view.  This experience will help you deepen an appreciation of all the insects that make up the web of life in our natural world. 

In this class you will:

• Gather for a discussion on biophilia to understand how a connection with nature is essential for our health and wellbeing.
• Get a “backstage tour” of Val’s insect collection.
• View insects and witness their beauty up close, under a high powered microscope.
• Explore the Wildflower and Sensory Gardens and discover insects in their environments.
• Participate in a discussion on why we need insects.
• Try eating a commercially prepared insect as a source of protein!

Leave this experience with a deeper understanding of the world of insects, and how being present in nature can refresh, restore and awaken all of your senses so you can feel its healing benefits.

Note:

• The focus on this class is on the wonder of insects in our natural world. This class will not cover practical aspects of pest management, gardening or horticulture.

• This Nature Heals Initiative experience does not serve as a substitute for professional medical advice, examination, diagnosis or treatment. Nature-Based Therapeutics Onsite Programming experiences at the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum do not engage in the practice of medicine, nor enter into a health-care practitioner/patient relationship. Please discuss your personal health with a qualified health practitioner.

Weather:

• This experience takes place in an open air shelter with time in nearby gardens, and will run rain or shine unless the conditions are deemed too dangerous by the Arboretum.
• Please dress appropriately for the weather.
• Be prepared for possible sunburn, insect bites, or allergy conditions. Where appropriate please bring necessary repellents, protection and medications. 

Helpful tips: 

• The Arboretum is a public place; solitude from other visitors is not expected nor guaranteed.
• Bring a water bottle, and please refrain from eating or chewing gum.
• This is a tech-free experience.
• As Minnesotans know, Mother Nature can be unpredictable…that is the joy and spontaneity of nature, and of this experience. Be prepared for the weather and come with an appreciation and respect for what Mother Nature has in store.