Nativity Lutheran Church will present “Stewarding Our Watersheds: A Precious Gift”, a four-part summer series focusing on our local watersheds, their beauty, and their importance to both our ecosystem and our daily lives.

Beginning June 22 and held at various area locations, each monthly gathering is free of charge and will feature a local expert presenting their knowledge and experience.

“The presentations will connect us to the water which sustains our lives and all life, day in and day out,” said the Church, in a news release. “Participants will explore the basic science of how the water around us stays healthy and learn how we can recognize when it is endangered. Knowing more can foster a deeper appreciation and desire to safeguard that which is precious to us. This is an invitation to bring your questions, come explore, learn about, and enjoy our watersheds together.”

Each gathering will last one to one and a half hours. Carpooling is encouraged, and refreshments will be provided. Bring a folding chair.

June 22, Thursday, 3:30 p.m., at Lindsey Brook, Thorndike Loop Road, downtown Rockland: Rebecca Jacobs, Program Manager for Knox-Lincoln Soil and Water Conservation District, will present “Watersheds 101.” Using a watershed model, she will explain what a watershed is, from the largest bodies of water to the smallest streams, how watersheds work and why they’re important. Meet at the Lindsey Brook bridge on the Rockland Harbor Trail. Take an optional walk on the trail following the presentation.

July 15, Saturday, 10 a.m., at Payson Park on the St. George River, Route 90, Warren: Linda Littlefield Grenfell, Environmental Educator and Maine Master Naturalist, will present “Exploring an Ecosystem”. She will describe watershed ecosystems and estuaries using an interactive watershed model, sample the water at the St. George’s head of tide, and lead a short walk on the historic Georges River Canal trail.

August 22, Tuesday, 3:30 pm at the Weskeag Marsh Preserve, Buttermilk Lane, South Thomaston: Theo Pratt, Coordinator of the Weskeag River Monitoring Project, will present “Wonders of Weskeag Marsh,” sharing her knowledge of the marsh, one of the area’s richest wildlife habitats, discussing the movement of water, how pollutants are filtered and the water monitoring project. Bring binoculars for optional bird watching following the presentation or take a short walk to a wildlife viewing platform.

September 16, Saturday, 10 a.m., at Nativity Lutheran Church, 179 Old County Road, Rockport: This session, with an option to attend by zoom, is entitled “Let a River Run Free.” It features the film, A Culvert Story with local artist and conservation activist, Dan Daley. There will be time for questions and Daley will offer a reflection on the importance of preserving rivers and streams that support fish, wildlife and the ecosystem. Following the presentation, take an optional walk on the Serenity Path located behind the church to view a small wetland habitat.

In the event of heavy rain, gatherings will move to Nativity Lutheran Church, 179 Old Country Road, Rockport. For more information, contact Elaine Isakson, (207)691-6551 or elaine.isakson@yahoo.com.