MARQUETTE, Mich.—The next biology seminar at Northern Michigan Unviersity is titled “Some Random Thoughts on Biodiversity: What We Don’t Know and Why It’s Important to Find Out.” Diane Husic, NMU distinguished alumni award winner and chair of the biological sciences department at Moravian College in Bethlehem, Pa., will present the talk. The event will be held at 4 p.m. Friday, Sept. 20, in Mead Auditorium in the West Science Building. It is free and open to the public.

Declines in biodiversity are often cited as one of the greatest environmental threats by ecologists, environmental activists and conservationists. It isn’t only “experts” who are worried. Many in the general public can identify their favorite charismatic species of concern, whether it’s polar bears, Monarch butterflies or a rare orchid.  And it can be difficult to find that quiet place in the woods or along a shoreline that hasn’t been disturbed by human actions.

In his new book Letters to a Young Scientist, E.O. Wilson states, “The still-deep pit of ignorance about biodiversity is a problem not just for specialists but for everyone.  How are we all going to manage the planet and keep it sustainable if we know so little about it?” Husic will discuss what should be learned to better understand this environmental problem and why is it important to reverse the “deep pit of ignorance” about biodiversity. She will use examples from her teaching, ecological restoration work and participation in climate change policy development and conservation work.