EMAC speaker spotlight series continues with Insect topic May 13 at Lane Community College

The City of Florence Environmental Management Advisory Committee (EMAC) will host the second event in its Speaker Spotlight Series on Wednesday, May 13, from 5:30 to 7:00 p.m. at Lane Community College Florence Center, 3149 Oak Street.

David Kollen from the Xerces Society for Invertebrate Conservation will be presenting via Zoom on “Insect Apocalypse: What is really happening, why it matters, and how you can be part of the solution.”

This 60-minute presentation starts with an overview of invertebrates and explains their importance and tremendous contribution to our food webs. There will be references to several scientific studies and data trends that provide evidence of their decline. The discussion will conclude with some nature-based climate solutions that support biodiversity and conservation.

OSU Extension Service Lane County Master Gardener volunteers will also be in attendance, with information about insects, pollinators, and the benefits of growing native plants. For more information about gardening and the OSU Extension Service, visit https://extension.oregonstate.edu/ or contact the Lane County Master Gardener Plant Clinic at lanemg@oregonstate.edu or 541-344-0265.

Attendees will enjoy snacks and refreshments, have access to additional educational materials, and can participate in giveaways and an opportunity drawing. All community members are welcome. More information is available at the City of Florence: https://www.ci.florence.or.us/365/EMAC.

Upcoming EMAC Speaker Spotlight Series Events

EMAC will host two more presentations throughout 2026, each highlighting a different environmental topic and community partner:

1. Wednesday, August 12 – Jerin Dinkins, Oregon Department of Environmental Quality Food Systems Specialist
   Topic: Save the Food: From Farm to Fork
   Learn more about the DEQ 2026 Food Waste Prevention Week, September 28 to October 4.
2. Saturday, November 14 – Rachel Freeman, Oregon Shores
   Topic: King Tides
   Featuring a hands-on Marine Debris Mosaic Workshop exploring coastal stewardship and creative reuse.

More information about each event will be shared as dates approach.

About the May 13 Speaker

David Kollen is a Xerces Society Ambassador involved in educational and outreach work. In addition, he is an OSU Extension certified Master Melittologist, Bee Steward, and Oregon Naturalist. His involvement in community science includes the Pacific Northwest Bumble Bee Atlas, the California Bumble Bee Atlas, and the Oregon Bee Atlas. Kollen also writes pollinator-focused articles for the Oregon State Federation of Garden Clubs newsletter, “Mahonia.”

About Xerces Society for Invertebrate Conservation

The Xerces Society for Invertebrate Conservation (https://xerces.org/) is an international nonprofit organization that protects the natural world through the conservation of invertebrates and their habitats. As a science-based conservation organization, they work with diverse partners that include land managers, educators, policymakers, farmers, and communities. By utilizing applied research, engaging in advocacy, providing educational resources, addressing policy implications, and building community, they endeavor to make meaningful long-term conservation a reality.

About EMAC

The Environmental Management Advisory Committee (EMAC) serves as an advisory body to the City Council and City Manager for the City of Florence. EMAC supports the development of programs and actions that promote healthy, environmentally sound practices for the City and the broader community. The committee prioritizes education, community outreach, and collaborative partnerships, working to strengthen local understanding of environmental issues and advance sustainable solutions. Got questions? Email EMAC at recycleon@ci.florence.or.us or visit www.ci.florence.or.us/365/EMAC.