DRI

The Story of the Future
2024-02-01 18:00 (America/Los_Angeles) | Springs Preserve, 333 S. Valley View Blvd., Las Vegas, NV, 89107, United States
Join us for an enlightening science lecture focused on the power of data, models, dashboards and forecasting in keeping the public informed about critical environmental and community concerns. Explore the dynamics of urban heat and extreme weather modeling. Discover the vital role of community dashboards in presenting quality-of-life data and how data is being used to accurately predict education outcomes. Gain a deeper understanding of how data-driven models can help us prepare for and respond to the challenges of our changing world, all aimed at improving quality of life and creating resilient communities.
Doors open at 6 p.m. Presentation begins at 6:30 p.m.
Beer, wine, and small bites will be available for purchase from Aspire Coffee House.
Visit the Springs Preserve website to purchase tickets: springspreserve.org/events
Featured Presenters:
John Mejia, Associate Research Professor, Climatology at DRI
Dr. Mejia’s current research focuses on developing regional climate modeling frameworks to examine climate impacts across various scales, ranging from global to regional to urban settings. He integrates observations and model output to generate practical information for environmental management, as well as the formulation of climate adaptation and mitigation strategies. Dr. Mejia’s presentation will show our advancements in the modeling of the urban climate for the Las Vegas Metropolitan area, including its urban built heterogeneity and its interaction with urban vegetation, water, and energy consumption. Additionally, we shed light on how policies aimed at water conservation (e.g., turf replacement) or heat management (e.g., cool roofs and cool roads) exhibit synergies and tradeoffs, underscoring the importance of a comprehensive understanding for effective urban environmental management.
Zane Marshall, Director of Water Resources at the Southern Nevada Water Authority (SNWA)
Zane Marshall has worked for the Southern Nevada Water Authority (SNWA) for the past 28 years. In his current role as Director of Water Resources, Zane leads seven divisions that oversee water, land, and environmental resource management, environmental restoration and compliance, regional water conservation, climate change, and sustainability initiatives, and the application of geospatial technologies. Zane has a Master of Arts in Science in Biology and Statistics from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas. He is a 2014 graduate of the Kenan-Flagler Business School’s Water and Waste Water Leadership Center and a 2015 graduate of the Las Vegas Metro Chamber of Commerce’s Leadership Las Vegas Program.
With Special Guest:
Christine Albano, Assistant Research Professor, Ecohydrology at DRI
In partnership with:

Sponsored by:

Unlocking the Photon Robot for K-12 Teachers
2024-01-27 08:00 - 11:00 | DRI, Las Vegas Campus, 755 E. Flamingo Rd., Las Vegas, NV, 89119, United States
On Saturday, January 27th, DRI Science Alive is teaming up with Eduscape Learning to offer Unpacking the Photon Robot for K-12 Teachers in the STEM Co-Lab. In this training, we will explore how to use coding to teach STEM skills across the curriculum. Participants will receive a certificate for three continuing education hours for attending the training. Register online now at bit.ly/3R4wpVx!
With the capability to be integrated into every subject area, Photon is the ideal all-in-one robotics solution for every classroom. In this training, participants will discover the capabilities of the coding robot and explore various teaching kits, including Al Discovery, Early Education, Coding & Robotics, and Special Education!
Transportation stipends are available on request.
Made possible with generous support from MGM Resorts International.

PreK – 5th Educator Training
2024-01-26 10:30 - 13:30 | Winnemucca Boys & Girls Club, 1973 Whitworth Way, Winnemucca, NV, 89445, United States
Join us on January 25 at the Winnemucca Boys & Girls Club for this special training for PreK – 5th grade educators sponsored by Nevada Gold Mines.
Save your spot by registering online now using our Google Form!
In this session, you will:
– Refresh your VEX 123 skills.
– Learn how to use the VEX 123 to teach ELA, math, & computer science.
– Experience Books & Bots curriculum integrated literacy-based instruction.
– Receive a training certificate for hours.
– Earn $150 stipend.
– Receive a FREE meal included with the training.
Please bring your school’s VEX 123 robots to this training (if available).
If you have any questions, please email aj.long@www-dev.dri.edu.

The Story of the Future
2024-01-25 19:00 - 21:00 | DRI, Reno Campus, 2215 Raggio Parkway, Reno, NV, 89512, United States
Join us for an enlightening science lecture focused on the power of data, models, dashboards and forecasting in keeping the public informed about critical environmental and community concerns. Explore the dynamics of urban heat and extreme weather modeling. Discover the vital role of community dashboards in presenting quality-of-life data and how data is being used to accurately predict education outcomes. Gain a deeper understanding of how data-driven models can help us prepare for and respond to the challenges of our changing world, all aimed at improving quality of life and creating resilient communities.
Tickets are available through The Discovery at https://nvdm.org/event/science-distilled-the-story-of-the-future/
Featured Presenters:
Kylie Rowe, Executive Director of Truckee Meadows Tomorrow
Measuring What Matters in Washoe County: TMT’s New Initiative in Data + Impact Storytelling
For 30+ years, Truckee Meadows Tomorrow has been Northern Nevada’s hub for quality-of-life data + explanation of services and what we bring to the community. Kylie will be presenting an overview of Quality of Life Community Indicators in Washoe County with examples of data and TMT’s New Pilot Project in Data + Impact Storytelling.

TMT is a grassroots organization that collects and publishes quality-of-life indicator data in northern Nevada. The mission is to enhance quality of life by providing accurate, timely and objective data as the basis for community engagement and dialogue.
John Mejia, Associate Research Professor, Climatology at DRI
Dr. Mejia’s current research focuses on developing regional climate modeling frameworks to examine climate impacts across various scales, ranging from global to regional to urban settings. He integrates observations and model output to generate practical information for environmental management, as well as the formulation of climate adaptation and mitigation strategies. Dr. Mejia’s presentation will show our advancements in the modeling of the urban climate for the Las Vegas Metropolitan area, including its urban built heterogeneity and its interaction with urban vegetation, water, and energy consumption. Additionally, we shed light on how policies aimed at water conservation (e.g., turf replacement) or heat management (e.g., cool roofs and cool roads) exhibit synergies and tradeoffs, underscoring the importance of a comprehensive understanding for effective urban environmental management.
JT Stark, Data Visualization and Analytics Coordinator at Washoe County School District
Presenting: Insight into High School Graduation
In his position as the Data Analytics Coordinator for the Washoe County School District (WCSD), the 59th largest district in the U.S., JT Stark plays a role in supporting the educational paths of over 60,000 students each year. Recent innovations created within WCSD have allowed WCSD to lead the nation in educational early warning systems, profoundly impacting the field of public education, and identifying students in need more accurately and earlier than ever. Beyond his work at WCSD, JT is an instructor of information systems and data analytics at the University of Nevada’s College of Business, and serves on the board of Truckee Meadows Tomorrow, a local non-profit committed to improving our community’s quality of life through strategic data utilization.

In partnership with:

Sponsored by:

PreK - 5th Educator Training
2024-01-25 16:00 - 19:00 | Grass Valley Elementary School, 6465 Grass Valley Rd, Winnemucca, NV, 89445, United States
Join us on January 25 at Grass Valley Elementary School for this special training for PreK – 5th grade educators sponsored by Nevada Gold Mines.
Save your spot by registering online now using our Google Form!
In this session, you will:
– Refresh your VEX 123 skills.
– Learn how to use the VEX 123 to teach ELA, math, & computer science.
– Experience Books & Bots curriculum integrated literacy-based instruction.
– Receive a training certificate for hours.
– Earn $150 stipend.
– Receive a FREE meal included with the training.
Please bring your school’s VEX 123 robots to this training (if available).
If you have any questions, please email aj.long@www-dev.dri.edu.

Women in Science Speaker Series Featuring Tiffany Pereira
2024-01-05 13:00 - 14:30 | Red Rock Canyon Las Vegas Amphitheater, 1000 Scenic Loop Dr., Las Vegas, NV, 89161, United States
Join us for an inspiring journey through the Women in Science Speaker Series, a collaborative initiative between the Bureau of Land Management and Southern Nevada Conservancy, held at the picturesque Red Rock Canyon Amphitheater the first Friday of the month. Delve into the worlds of local women in STEM as they share their expertise, connection to the land, and the impact of STEM in their lives. These captivating events promise insightful discussions and enlightening perspectives. In the event of inclement weather, we’ll shift the excitement indoors to the Visitor Center, ensuring an enriching experience regardless of conditions. Don’t miss out on these empowering conversations shaping the future of Nevada’s public lands and site stewardship.

January 5th, 2024: Tiffany Pereira, Ecologist at Desert Research Institute
February 2nd, 2024: Sandy Croteau, Vice President at Protectors of Tule Springs
March 1st, 2024: Dr. Lauren Parry, Paleontologist at National Park Service

Registration is necessary, space is limited. Register online or by calling (702) 515-5367

DRI at AGU23 Fall Meeting
2023-12-11 - 2023-12-15 | Moscone Center, 747 Howard St., San Francisco, CA, 94103, United States
DRI will have an exhibit at the AGU23 Fall Meeting this year and will be located at booth 646. In addition, we will also have faculty presenting at the conference. Check back soon for details and the conference schedule. We look forward to seeing everyone there!
agu.org/fall-meeting
#DiscoverDRI

A Miniseries Workshop on Sustainability
2023-11-18 13:00 - 16:00 | DRI, Reno Campus, 2215 Raggio Parkway, Reno, NV, 89512, United States
Want to bring sustainability to your classroom? Join DRI’s educator workshop to learn about two hands-on, NGSS-aligned activities you can do with your students! Up to three continuing education hours are available to participants. Educators will learn about various hydroponic systems and how to bring the curriculum into their grade level. Engineering will also get the spotlight as we explore bringing energy conservation into the classroom through learning about thermodynamics. Classroom supplies tied to the training will be raffled as prizes at the end of the training.
Space is limited, so be sure to reserve your spot today!
https://forms.gle/6h8SeZmsn8vhoU3W6
Workshop Highlights:
Hydroponics: Discover how hydroponics fits into your grade level by exploring various systems and learning about the components needed to help your plants thrive.
Thermodynamics: Ignite curiosity by coupling energy and engineering in a hands-on energy conservation building challenge.
Raffle Prizes: Class materials and supplies relating to the workshop will be raffled off as prizes!

The Story of Far, Far Away
2023-11-16 19:00 - 21:00 | Downtown Reno Library, 301 S. Center Street, Reno, NV, 89501, United States
In this final event in our season, Science Distilled departs from Earth and takes you on a journey to explore the beyond. Join our speakers as they share stories about quantum theory, astrobiology, and how the research of life in extreme environments on Earth can give us clues about where to look for life beyond our planet.
Location: Downtown Reno Library
Purchase tickets through The Discovery: https://nvdm.org/exhibitions-and-events/science-distilled/

In partnership with:

Sponsored by:

DRI at the Pleistocene Palooza
2023-10-14 09:00 - 12:00 | Tule Springs Fossil Beds National Monument, Grand Teton Dr., Las Vegas, NV, 89084, United States
Stop by our booth at the Pleistocene Palooza, where we will have great activities for the kids representing the flora and fauna seen inside the Tule Springs Fossil Beds National Monument. We hope to see you there!
Pleistocene Palooza is an annual, interactive outdoor event for fossil enthusiasts of all ages, featuring live animals and a junior paleontologist program. Visitors can catch a glimpse of Ice Age Las Vegas–Pleistocene fossils will come alive as visitors meet representative animals that live today. National Park Service staff, volunteers, and partners showcase the science behind the scenes that helps us understand past life and environments and how they relate to today. This event is in celebration of National Fossil Day, an annual celebration held in October to highlight the scientific and educational value of paleontology and the importance of preserving fossils for future generations.
The event will be held in the parking area at N. Durango Drive & W. Moccasin Rd. Visitor parking will be available on the northeast side of the intersection.

DRI at the 2023 Tahoe Science Conference
2023-10-12 10:45 - 12:30 | Lake Tahoe Community College, 1 College Drive, South Lake Tahoe, CA, 96150
DRI’s Dr. Monica Arienzo will be presenting about Microplastics and Trash, along with colleagues Dr. Veronica Nava, University of Milan-Bicocca, Laura Patten, League to Save Lake Tahoe, Madonna Dunbar, Tahoe Water Suppliers Assoc, and Alison Toy (Facilitator), Tahoe Environmental Research Center at the 2023 Tahoe Science Conference: Science to Action: Working Together to Build Resiliency at Lake Tahoe.
The full conference runs from October 11-13 at Lake Tahoe Community College. For registration information, please visit: https://nvwra.org/2023-tahoe-science-conference
You can also discover more about Dr. Arienzo’s research on our Lake Tahoe Storymap: https://bit.ly/drilaketahoe

Introduction to Hydroponics for K-12 Teachers
2023-10-07 13:00 - 16:00 | DRI, Las Vegas Campus, 755 E. Flamingo Rd., Las Vegas, NV, 89119, United States
Looking for a hands-on opportunity to learn about hydroponics and STEM education? Join Green Our Planet and the DRI Science Alive Program for an Introduction to Hydroponics to learn more about:

Germinating seeds, transplanting seedlings, mixing nutrient solution, and programming lights.
Building, assembling, and operating hydroponic systems.
Integrating hydroponics into your classroom and community!

Register now using our Google Form

Beyond Our Horizon
2023-10-05 18:30 - 20:30 | Springs Preserve, 333 S. Valley View Blvd., Las Vegas, NV, 89107, United States
In this final event in our season, DRI Science at the Springs departs from Earth and takes you on a journey to explore the beyond. Join our speakers on October 5 at the Springs Preserve as they share stories about astrobiology, training NASA Astronauts in the Nevada desert at the Nevada National Security Site, and how microbes deep within the subsurface of our planet tell us more about exploring life beyond Earth.
Doors open at 6 p.m. Presentation begins at 6:30 p.m.
Beer, wine, and small bites will be available for purchase from Aspire Coffee House.
Purchase Tickets online through Springs Preserve
$25 non-members
$20 Springs Preserve value members
$15 Springs Preserve donor members
Featured Speakers:
Dr. Brittany Kruger will introduce the topic astrobiology and describe techniques researchers use to learn more about life in extreme environments, and how that information translates into looking for life on other planets. She will use examples from her own research in surface-based extreme environments on Earth including high pH springs and growing plants in simulated Martian soil.
Dr. Duane Moser will be talking about his research into deep, subsurface biospheres around the world, and what it tells us about naturally occurring, radiation-driven ecosystems. While Dr. Moser’s research deals with microbes deep within the subsurface of earth, his work provides a terrestrial analog for the exploration of life beyond on Earth.
Nick Downs, a third generation geologist, will join us to discuss the Nevada Space Proving Ground located within the Nevada National Security Site and how it is the nation’s most realistic full-scale testbed to prepare humans and equipment to return to the moon. The #NNSS has a deep legacy of supporting our nation’s space efforts, and #NSPG is building on that heritage to support the future exploration of the Moon, Mars, and beyond.
Sponsored by:

Drive-in for Science
2023-09-16 19:00 - 21:00 | West Wind Drive-In and Public Market, 555 El Rancho Drive, Sparks, NV, 89431, United States
Join us for this installment in the Science Distilled series for a scientific double feature. Explore the often misunderstood relationship between humans and whales in “The Whale Detective,” and then dive into the incredible intelligence and problem-solving skills octopuses possess in “Octopus: Making Contact.” Pull in, sit back, and enjoy two wonderful films guaranteed to be scientific blockbusters!

The gate opens at 7:00 p.m., and the film begins at 7:30 p.m.
Purchase tickets through The Discovery: https://nvdm.org/event/science-distilled-drive-in-for-science/

In partnership with:

Sponsored by:

DRI Science at the Springs: History Written in Ice
2023-08-24 18:30 - 20:30 | Springs Preserve, 333 S. Valley View Blvd., Las Vegas, NV, 89107, United States
Explore the incredible story of ice core researchers and their journey to the Arctic to extract ice cores that hold within them evidence of past societies, volcanic eruptions, and even plagues. You’ll learn about the incredible lengths that researchers go to in order to extract these cores, the technological advances that have made this work possible, and the impact that their discoveries have had on our understanding of history.
Doors open at 6 p.m. Presentation begins at 6:30 p.m.
Beer, wine, and small bites will be available for purchase.
Purchase Tickets online through Springs Preserve
$25 non-members
$20 Springs Preserve value members
$15 Springs Preserve donor members
Sponsored by:

STEM Showcase for Educators: Back to School Blowout in Reno
2023-08-07 14:00 - 18:00 | DRI, Reno Campus, 2215 Raggio Parkway, Reno, NV, 89512, United States
Training for Kindergarten through Fifth Grade Educators in Reno
DRI is pleased to announce its “STEM Showcase for Educators: Back to School Blowout.” The event includes training on DRI’s new Green Boxes, which are Next Generation Science Standards and Amplify standards aligned, free classroom supplies, raffle prizes, swag bags, and a resource fair with local businesses and non-profit organizations.
Green Boxes are self-contained teaching kits that provide educators with two or more weeks of lesson plans along with all of the supplies necessary to conduct each activity. Every box uses active learning strategies to engage students in hands-on projects that foster critical thinking and problem-solving skills. These lessons are designed to enhance student literacy in various STEM subject areas, from water conservation in the Desert Southwest to the environmental impact associated with natural resource extraction. Best of all, this resource is offered FREE of cost to any formal or informal educator in Nevada!
This event is a collaboration between DRI’s Science Alive, UNLV, and the National Institute for the Advancement of Education. Register Today!

STEM Showcase for Educators: Back to School Blowout in Las Vegas
2023-08-01 14:00 - 18:00 | DRI, Las Vegas Campus, 755 E. Flamingo Rd., Las Vegas, NV, 89119, United States
Training for Kindergarten through Fifth Grade Educators in Las Vegas
DRI is pleased to announce its “STEM Showcase for Educators: Back to School Blowout.” The event includes training on DRI’s new Green Boxes, which are Next Generation Science Standards and Amplify standards aligned, free classroom supplies, raffle prizes, swag bags, and a resource fair with local businesses and non-profit organizations.
Green Boxes are self-contained teaching kits that provide educators with two or more weeks of lesson plans along with all of the supplies necessary to conduct each activity. Every box uses active learning strategies to engage students in hands-on projects that foster critical thinking and problem-solving skills. These lessons are designed to enhance student literacy in various STEM subject areas, from water conservation in the Desert Southwest to the environmental impact associated with natural resource extraction. Best of all, this resource is offered FREE of cost to any formal or informal educator in Nevada!
This event is a collaboration between DRI’s Science Alive, UNLV, and the National Institute for the Advancement of Education. Register Today!

Artown Science Distilled: The Intersection Between Art & Science
2023-07-20 19:00 - 21:00 | DRI, Reno Campus, 2215 Raggio Parkway, Reno, NV, 89512, United States
At this installment in the Science Distilled series, audience members will be taken on a deep dive into the surprising space where creativity and science commingle. Come learn why science needs creative minds and how creativity can be inspired by science. This event in the series is presented in conjunction with Artown and will feature a short documentary film, speaker presentations, and audience Q&A.
Doors open at 6:30 p.m., and the presentation begins at 7:00 p.m.

Purchase Tickets through The Discovery at https://nvdm.org/event/science-distilled-art-meets-science/
Non-Members – $15.00
Members – $10.00

Sponsored by:

Artown Photography Exhibit & Open House
2023-07-20 16:00 - 18:00 | DRI, Reno Campus, 2215 Raggio Parkway, Reno, NV, 89512, United States
During Artown we are celebrating the winners of DRI’s annual photography competition and inviting the community to attend this free event for science enthusiasts of all ages. Our scientists and staff travel the globe conducting their research. Along their journeys, they return with more than just data and samples – they capture striking snapshots of the places they explore, from the desolate deserts of Nevada to the intricate depths of a microscope. We will also be hosting an open house during this time with free lab tours on a first-come, first-served basis and drone demonstration in the courtyard. Come and check out all of the great work that our scientists are doing. This event is made possible, in part, with support from the Edna B. and Bruno Benna Foundation.
– STEM activities for kids: Learn to make an anemometer – an instrument designed to measure wind speed and pressure!
– Food trucks from Bite Me Food Truck Nv and Crepes & Craft
– Photography exhibit with the winners from the #DRI photo contest.
– Drone and robotics demonstrations!
Then stay for a special #ScienceDistilled at 7 p.m. with The Discovery. You can purchase tickets online at bit.ly/artownsciencedistilled
