Guided by the wisdom of his grandfather Calvin (Cal) DeWitt, young filmmaker Ben Albert journeys through the mysterious world of the Waubesa Wetlands in this exploration of natural wonder and the intrinsic bond between humans and nature.
Navigating the challenges of this environment and learning from his grandfather – a wetland scientist who has lived on the marsh’s edge for over 50 years – Albert captures the wetland ecosystem in a new light. By combining Albert’s visuals with DeWitt’s knowledge and wisdom, the film uncovers the life, mysteries, and value of wetlands in a way never seen before.
The Nelson Institute’s Tales from Planet Earth film series is thrilled to host Ben Albert and Cal DeWitt as they engage with the Madison campus and community, share their experiences, and offer free screenings of An Invitation to Wonder: Waubesa Wetlands.
Schedule
Attendance is free for all events; secure your spot as seats are limited.
Additional guided hike and kayaking trips will be offered as part of this event.
Sunday, Sept. 29, 2024
3:30–7 p.m.
Lussier Family Heritage Center
3101 Lake Farm Road
Madison
Join us from 3:30 to 5 p.m. for outdoor activities and programming, including guided walks with BIPOC Birding and wetland themed activities with Rock River Coalition. Stick around for a film screening of An Invitation to Wonder: Waubesa Wetlands starting at 5 p.m, followed by a Q & A with Ben Albert and Cal DeWitt.
Sold out
Monday, Sept. 30, 2024
6–8 p.m.
Marquee Cinema at Union South
1308 West Dayton Street
Madison
Join us for a screening of An Invitation to Wonder: Waubesa Wetlands and Q & A with Ben Albert and Cal DeWitt.
Register for Sept. 30
We are also offering a virtual screening option for those who can’t attend in person or prefer to watch online. After registering, you’ll receive a link to watch the film anytime between Sept. 26 and 28.
Register for virtual
Additional Outdoor Events
Saturday, September 28
Waubesa Walks
Session 1: 11 a.m.–noon; session 2: 1–2 p.m.
Waubesa Wetlands State Natural Area
Take an easy, one-hour walk through the Waubesa Wetlands ecosystem with guide Cal DeWitt, professor emeritus of the Nelson Institute for Environmental Studies. Cal has lived on the marsh’s edge for over 50 years and guided hundreds of students through the wetland on field trips and classes. Discover what makes the Waubesa Wetlands so special while observing its diversity of life first-hand.
More details and registration
Sunday, September 29
Paddle in the Park — Waubesa Wetlands Tour
8:30–11:30 a.m.
Goodland County Park, 2849 Waubesa Avenue, Madison
Enjoy a morning paddle on Lake Waubesa. Canoes are available to rent or bring your own boat. Dane County Parks staff will instruct you on basic paddling techniques, water safety, and then get you out on the water. The Friends of Waubesa Wetlands will provide a tour of the lake and wetlands. All proceeds support the Dane County Parks education program and the Friends of Waubesa Wetlands.
More details and registration
About
Tales from Planet Earth is a film series hosted by the Nelson Institute for Environmental Studies. These free viewings are selected to feature compelling narratives to the work of scholars and community organizations who advocate for environmental and social justice. Originally a film festival, Tales from Planet Earth has evolved into a community based, interactive engagement and learning experience.
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The Nelson Institute is pleased to offer a variety of free public programs, lectures, and events, demonstrating our commitment and dedication to the Wisconsin Idea: the principle that education should influence people’s lives beyond the boundaries of the classroom.
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