Science, Stories, and Stewardship: A Natural Start to 2026 with Owen Sound Field Naturalists
OSFN begin 2026 with a presentation on environmental DNA by Dr. Roman Lanno, local nature programming updates, a featured photography exhibit at the library, and a tribute to a Bruce Trail co-founder.
COMMUNITY CONTRIBUTION
As 2026 begins, the Owen Sound Field Naturalists (OSFN) launch their new season with a timely exploration of cutting-edge ecological science. From environmental DNA to a tribute to a trailblazing conservationist, this month’s nature notes offer a compelling snapshot of our local natural world in midwinter.
OSFN Hosts First Speaker Presentation of 2026: Dr. Roman Lanno on Environmental DNA
The Owen Sound Field Naturalists club (OSFN) invites you to its first speaker presentation of 2026, “Applications of Environmental DNA – [eDNA] – in Ecology” with Dr. Roman Lanno.
Environmental DNA (eDNA) is a rapidly emerging technology with the potential to dramatically change ecosystem assessment. Environmental toxicologist Dr. Roman Lanno will guide you through the basics of eDNA, its myriad applications in ecology, and its potential future uses.
Dr. Lanno recently retired to Owen Sound from his position—held since 2001—as a professor in the Department of Evolution, Ecology, and Organismal Biology at The Ohio State University in Columbus. His areas of expertise included ecotoxicology; terrestrial and aquatic invertebrates; fish; mammals; bioavailability; and metals and organic chemicals.
His earlier academic training was at the University of Guelph (Bachelor of Science in Fisheries Biology and Master of Science in Fish Nutrition), and the University of Waterloo (PhD in Environmental Toxicology).
This event is scheduled for 7 p.m., Thursday, January 8, at the Harry Lumley Bayshore Community Centre.
Admission is by donation (free for OSFN members), and doors open at 6:30 p.m. to browse OSFN publications, merchandise, and membership information.
Other event features include recent “nature sightings”, with audience members reporting notable wildlife observations from the area.
To learn more about OSFN—including the Young Naturalists Club, which is planning snowshoeing and bannock-making on Sunday, January 25 at Greystone Trails, Georgian Bluffs—please visit our website.
The event will also be available on Zoom. You may register for the Zoom meeting here.
Nature Photography at the Library
I am looking forward to my next visit to the Owen Sound and North Grey Union Public Library (OSNGUPL), which provides me with most of my closing nature quotes.
The library is currently featuring the photography of AJ Lawrence, a local artist inspired by the quiet beauty of local landscapes and the subtle stories of the natural world.
Living with PTSD, ASD, and Auditory Processing Disorder has shaped AJ’s unique perspective, strengthened his resilience, and enhanced his ability to work independently—qualities reflected in his photography.
AJ’s work is on display until January 31.
In Memory: Dr. Philip Gosling
As someone who first hiked the Bruce Trail in August 1970 (from Walters Falls to Inglis Falls), I’d like to acknowledge the recent passing of Dr. Philip Gosling, co-founder of the Bruce Trail Conservancy, who died on December 3 at the age of 97.
Dr. Gosling’s conservation leadership earned him numerous honours, including:
The Order of Canada
An honorary degree from the University of Guelph
His legacy is celebrated in these evocative words:
“By the sparkling white cliffs and blue vastness of Georgian Bay we hikers enjoy this, the most spectacular stretch of the Bruce Trail... When we trek back from the bay, we silently thank the hikers and conservation groups who fought for the Bruce Trail, making it possible to follow this great escarpment from Queenston to Tobermory.”
— From The Heart of the Country (1988) by Fred Dahms, Professor Emeritus, Department of Geography, University of Guelph, illustrated by Ruth Dahms.
In Case You Missed It…
Christmas bird count results are back, too. You’ll find the highlights here:
Eyes on the Skies: Grey-Bruce Birders Log Thousands of Sightings in Annual Winter Count
Local results from the 2023 Christmas Bird Counts reveal species highs, rare sightings, and shifting winter bird patterns across Owen Sound, Neyaashiinigmiing, Wiarton, and Meaford.
Contributions from the community do not necessarily reflect the opinions or beliefs of The Owen Sound Current and its editor or publisher.
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