Visit College of Biological Sciences researchers and staff at sites around the fairgrounds for hands-on biology activities. Connect with our field stations and participate in actual research! Here’s where you can find us this year:
August 27
Cedar Creek Ecosystem Science Reserve
Learn about the research happening at Cedar Creek while engaging in hands-on activities related to the plants and animals at our field station in East Bethel.
Ag Hort Building | 3-6 p.m.
August 28
Cedar Creek Ecosystem Science Reserve
Learn about the research happening at Cedar Creek while engaging in hands-on activities related to the plants and animals at our field station in East Bethel.
Ag Hort Building | 3-6 p.m.
September 1
Swish for Science
Cari Vanderpool and colleagues are interested in the microbes in your mouth! Located in the State Fair Research Building, you can take part in scientific findings as you swab and rinse your mouth so researchers can collect microbes that might cause infections like cavities and infected root canals.
State Fair Research Building | 2:30 - 9 p.m.
September 2
Ear of the Beholder
In this interactive activity at the State Fair Research Building, you can learn how animals hear sounds by playing an iPad app developed by Norman Lee at St. Olaf College and Katie Krueger and Mark Bee in CBS. While you play, Katie Krueger, Anita Schuchardt and colleagues will monitor your conversations with a partner and ask you a few questions to help researchers understand how learners make meaning of science information.
State Fair Research Building | 9 a.m. - 2 p.m.
September 3
Itasca Biological Station and Laboratories
Engage in interactive activities about the ongoing work and research at Itasca Biological Station and Laboratories! This year, Itasca will be in the MPCA EcoExperience Building at the Community Partner Table which is themed on “Clean Water - protecting and restoring Minnesota’s waters”
EcoExperience Building | All day
Ear of the Beholder
State Fair Research Building | 9 a.m. - 2 p.m.
September 4
Swish for Science
State Fair Research Building | 9 a.m. - 2 p.m.
September 5
Tell Scientists What You Think (About Microbes)!
Come meet with Kathryn Fixen, Emily Hanson and colleagues and share what you think about microbes and microbiology. Scientists are always excited to talk about what they're doing, but they aren't always great at communicating. Come meet with researchers so they learn better ways to share their science with you!
State Fair Research Building | 9 a.m. - 2 p.m.
Dam Opinions – The Human Dimensions of Beaver Conservation in Minnesota
North American beavers provide important ecological benefits in Minnesota, yet their activities can also flood roads, damage infrastructure, and alter landscapes. Through an interactive survey run by Kyle Smith and colleagues, participants will evaluate beaver-influenced habitats and share their beliefs and management preferences to help inform future conservation strategies.
State Fair Research Building | 9 a.m. - 2 p.m.
September 6
Dam Opinions – The Human Dimensions of Beaver Conservation in Minnesota
State Fair Research Building | 9 a.m. - 2 p.m.
September 7
Tell Scientists What You Think (About Microbes)!
State Fair Research Building | 9 a.m. - 2 p.m.