Diversity in the Outdoors Speaker Series | Fire is Medicine, with Mary Parr

When

Sunday November 10, 2024: 1:00pm to 3:00pm  Add to Calendar /   Add to Google Calendar

Where

Traverwood Branch: Program Room

Description

Indigenous land steward Mary Parr will discuss Ishkode, or “fire” in Anishinaabemowin, and its significance in Anishinaabeg culture and historical use to maintain resilience in fire-dependent communities. This presentation will also explore findings from Parr’s graduate thesis at Grand Valley State University, which examines the use of historical fire regimes in present-day restored tallgrass prairie. Following the presentation, Parr will lead a short hike through the prairie of Stapp Nature Area to discuss prescribed fire application and plant community response. This event will include a nature trail walk at Stapp Nature Area, so make sure you dress for the weather and for potentially muddy trails

Mary Parr is an Indigenous woman, land steward, graduate student, and seasoned fire practitioner passionate about traditional knowledge and its applications in restoration ecology. Parr has participated in prescribed fires across the Great Plains and Midwest while working for the Nature Conservancy Nebraska and Minnesota Chapters. Currently, Parr is the Stewardship Manager for Pierce Cedar Creek Institute in Hastings, MI, where she manages 850 acres, coordinates conservation efforts, leads the prescribed fire program, and mentors undergraduate students in land stewardship.

This event is in partnership with Natural Area Preservation.