FREEPORT — The Environmental Study Group has announced a lecture series to discuss the impact of climate change on our daily lives. The series is offered as a way to share information and stories about how climate change has impacted people in Northwest Illinois and how climate change may affect our lives in the future. 

The series will be held at the Freeport Public Library, located at 100 E Douglas Street in Freeport, and is offered in partnership with the Northwest Illinois Trails Foundation, the University of Illinois Extension, the Northwest Illinois Bird and Nature Alliance, Illinois Sierra Club, and the City of Freeport.

The series is free and open to the public. The sessions include a dynamic group of speakers from January through May. 

Kicking the series off on Tuesday, Jan. 20 will be Dr. Don Wuebbles, the Harry E. Preble Emeritus Professor of Atmospheric Science at the University of Illinois who will provide an overview and update on the science and risks of climate change and getting to solutions.

On Wednesday, Feb. 18, Dr. Jack Herrmann, Professor Emeritus from the Center for One Health and the School of Public Health, University of Illinois, will discuss the health impacts of climate change.

On Wednesday, March 18, Dr. Trent Ford, Illinois State Climatologist, will present on the climate change impacts in Illinois from farms to forests.

On Wednesday, April 8, Jen Walling, Executive Director of the Illinois Environmental Council will present information on state and local policies that affect climate change as well as financial implications for residents.

To wrap up the series, on Wednesday, May 6, Dr. Jessica Rudnick, State Climate Specialist with the University of Illinois Extension will be joined by City of Freeport leadership and staff to discuss climate risks and resilience at the local and state levels.

Each session will begin at 6:30 p.m. and will include a lecture as well as time for questions and discussion on the topics presented. Refreshments will be provided. 

For more information, refer to https://freeportpubliclibrary.librarymarket.com or contact Jack Herrmann at jackherrmann15@gmail.com.