There is evidence that trees in the Eastern United States are growing faster than they have in the past 225 years. Small changes in their growth rate can have significant effects on weather patterns, biodiversity, and climate change. Geoffrey Parker, senior scientist with the Smithsonian Environmental Research Center, has tracked the growth of 55 stands of mixed hardwood forest plots in Maryland for more than 20 years. Dr. Parker will discuss this research, why it might be happening, and the possible ramifications of increased forest growth. Registration required. Limit: 35

$15 members, $20 general public