Adults and Teens

A second session will be held at the Prince Frederick Library from 12:30-2:30. Register for the Prince Frederick Session 

This free lecture series is supported by a generous grant from Cove Point Natural Heritage Trust.

Reservations are recommended, but not required

Discover how one remarkable species helps shape the Chesapeake Bay. Join Maryland Master Naturalist and science illustrator Adam Aris Candelaria for an engaging presentation exploring the history, life cycle, and incredible ecological importance of the Eastern oyster.

Through original illustrations, storytelling, and fascinating science, you'll learn how oysters build reefs that provide habitat for hundreds of species, filter and improve water quality, protect shorelines, and support one of the Bay's most iconic ecosystems. Adam will also share how scientists, watermen, volunteers, and communities are working together to restore oyster populations throughout the Chesapeake Bay.

Perfect for nature enthusiasts and lifelong learners who wants to better understand one of the Chesapeake's most important keystone species.

About Adam Aris Candelaria: He is a Maryland Master Naturalist, science illustrator, author, poet, graphic designer, Certified Baltimore TreeKeeper, and Weed Warrior based in Baltimore, Maryland. He is passionate about helping people of all ages discover the wonder of nature through art, storytelling, and hands-on exploration.

Adam is the author and illustrator of The Garden Part 1, a science comic that brings the concepts of producers, consumers, decomposers, and energy flow to life for young readers. He is also the author of the poem "Where the Pavement Hums," which explores the connections between nature and Baltimore City.

Adam is currently developing an illustrated educational series about the Eastern oyster and its vital role in the Chesapeake Bay. The stories explore oyster history, life cycle, ecosystem engineering, water filtration, reef habitat, and ongoing restoration efforts, helping readers understand why oysters are one of the Bay's most important species.

His work combines scientific accuracy, engaging storytelling, and original artwork to make ecology accessible, inspiring curiosity, environmental stewardship, and a lifelong appreciation for nature. Through his presentations, Adam blends science, live illustration, and storytelling to help audiences of all ages discover the hidden wonders of the natural world.

This free lecture series, supported by a generous grant from Cove Point Natural Heritage Trust (CPNHT), is a year-long educational initiative is designed to engage Calvert County residents with accessible, informative, and inspiring presentations on environmental topics relevant to Southern Maryland. This series will feature expert-led, one-hour lectures at local locations such as public libraries, community nature centers, and non-profit organizations that would be willing to host public participation. Each lecture will be free and open to the public, aiming to foster environmental stewardship and community-based environmental learning.

In addition to the lectures, the events will showcase local research projects and assessments relating to the natural sciences that have taken place in Southern Maryland – especially the small grant projects that CPNHT supports as well as other volunteer based activities that are contributing to the improvement of the environmental health of our local ecosystem. These showcases would be in in short presentation format, held to a 30 minute length and presented before the primary speaker presentation.

Please consider the safety, health, and well-being of all participants in our programs and stay home if the participant(s) are ill. Full refunds will be given for cancellations due to health concerns.

Please read our full policy statement and waiver.