Mapping The Sawkill: Macroinvertebrate Photography with Frank Beres

RSVP - SOLD OUT : Reserve your spot on Eventbrite

Bring any camera, from a phone to a telephoto lens. Knee-high boots recommended.

As part of the Mapping the Sawkill series, spend an afternoon in the field with local ecologist Frank Beres photographing and documenting insect biodiversity at Zena Cornfield. Participants will discover and learn about the life cycles of semi-adult aquatic insects such as dragonflies, mayflies, and stoneflies that will be in flight after years of living in nearby water bodies as larvae. The workshop will also explore the importance of bioindicator documentation and how aquatic insects and other species, such as butterflies, bumble bees, and other important pollinators, can inform us about habitat and environmental quality. This is a hands-on opportunity to hone your skills in photographing and identifying insects while learning about these crucial watershed protectors in their natural habitats.

Frank Beres is an ecologist from Port Ewen, New York, who works to document aquatic insect species as bioindicators for the New York City Department of Environmental Protection. He began using photography in 2016 to assist in the documentation of biodiversity in the Hudson Valley area and quickly took a special interest in teaching others about local insect species. Frank believes that nature appreciation is inherent in everyone and is passionate about fostering such instincts through photos, outreach, and education. He leads several interpretive nature walks each year to introduce others to the fascinating life that arises from freshwater and beyond.

What to Bring

• Any camera or phone for photographing insects

• Knee-high boots or appropriate footwear

• Lawn chair if you'd like a space to sit

• Check thoroughly for ticks!

This workshop is part of the Mapping the Sawkill Watershed Project, a multi-part initiative designed to build relationships with Woodstock's waterways and with one another through shared exploration, learning, and stewardship.