Insect Identification Workshop: Identifying Emergent Aquatic and Shoreline Insects

Learn to identify common emergent aquatic insects and nearshore terrestrial insects collected through Project BEACON. Participants will help sort and catalog specimens while gaining practical identification skills used in freshwater ecology and biodiversity research.

About the Community Science Network Workshops
Our Community Science Network Workshops are designed to give adults (18+) the tools, skills, and confidence to actively participate in real scientific research. Through hands-on sessions, participants will learn how to observe, document, and contribute meaningful data to ongoing studies.

Workshop topics will include insect identification, nighttime observation techniques, astronomy, pollinator observation, digital community science initiatives, birding, and using tools like iNaturalist to record and share findings. Each experience is built to be approachable, practical, and grounded in real-world applications.

Requirements
These workshops are intended exclusively for participants 18 years of age and older. By registering, attendees confirm that they and everyone who will be attending the workshop meet this age requirement.

To ensure an appropriate learning environment for all participants, we reserve the right to cancel and refund registrations for individuals under the age of 18. We appreciate your understanding and cooperation in helping us maintain the intended experience for all attendees.

Insect Identification Workshop: Identifying Emergent Aquatic and Shoreline Insects 
Sunday, August 9, 2026 | 11:00am - 1:00pm

Learn to identify common emergent aquatic insects and nearshore terrestrial insects collected through Project BEACON. Participants will help sort and catalog specimens while gaining practical identification skills used in freshwater ecology and biodiversity research.

iNaturalist at Cranbrook: Mapping Campus Biodiversity
Sunday, October 1, 2026 | 11:00am - 1:00pm

Explore natural areas across the Cranbrook campus while learning how to make high-quality observations with iNaturalist. The workshop will contribute to an ongoing effort to document and better understand the biodiversity present on campus.

Community Science in Astronomy: Astronomy Beyond the Telescope
Sunday, November 12, 2026 | 11:00am - 1:00pm

Discover the many ways volunteers can participate in astronomy and space-related community science projects. Participants will also be able to visit the observatory as part of this experience.

Virtual and Game-based Community Science: Contributing to Research from Anywhere
Sunday, January 14, 2027 |  | 11:00am - 1:00pm

Explore community science projects that can be completed virtually, including online platforms and game-based research initiatives. Learn how people are contributing to real scientific discoveries from home.

Michigan Invasive Species: Identification and reporting with MISIN
Sunday, March 11, 2027 | 11:00am - 1:00pm

Learn to recognize some of Michigan’s most significant invasive species and how to report observations through the MISIN network. This workshop will focus on practical identification skills and the role of community reporting in conservation and management.

Community Science for Pollinator Conservation: Monitoring Pollinators and Building Habitat
Sunday, May 6, 2027 | 11:00am - 1:00pm

Learn about community science initiatives focused on pollinators and how volunteers can contribute meaningful observations. Participants will also help inform early planning for the Grow Wild Garden, a new habitat and outdoor learning space coming to CIS in Summer 2027.

Admission

  • Single workshop:
    • General Admission: $25
    • Cranbrook Institute of Science Members: $21.25
  • Series (register for all six workshops and get one FREE!)
    • General Admission: $125
    • Cranbrook Institute of Science Members: $106.25