Science historian to speak at Hudson Highlands museum

Cornwall-on-Hudson — Science historian Sara Tjossem will relate two stories from Ecological Society of America history that suggest the tension between advocates of social activism and those who wanted to develop science separate from social and political issues. She will speak at the Hudson Highlands Nature Museum at 7:30 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 18, at Painter’s Tavern, located on Hudson Street in Cornwall-on-Hudson. Her presentation, “Working in and for Nature: Stories from the Past,” is part of the museum’s Evening Speakers Series. The science of ecology in the United States has been shaped in part by ecologists building respect for their field. Tjossem is an historian of science, particularly biology. She teaches environmental history and policy at Columbia University. Next in the series is a presentation by Dr. Michael Edelstein of Goshen on Thursday, Oct. 25. He will give the talk “Creating a Sustainable Future for the Hudson Valley,” which outlines the path for a sustainable future in the region. Cost for the presentations is $7, or $4 for museum members $4. For information call 534-5506 ext. 204 or visit www.hhnaturemuseum.org.