Join Itasca Waters and Minnesota Sea Grant in learning about waterbird biology, ecology, and conservation as part of the Practical Water Wisdom webinar series, co-sponsored by MNSG.
This session will explore the ecology of waterbirds, how scientists monitor them, and why long-term tracking is essential. It will highlight what waterbirds can reveal about the health of our environment, with a special focus on several tern species. The presentation will also show why large-scale collaboration is crucial for understanding and protecting these populations.
Speakers
- Annie Bracey, University of Minnesota Natural Resources Research Institute Avian Ecologist
- Annie Bracey has worked as an avian ecologist at the University of Minnesota’s Natural Resources Research Institute for over 15 years. Much of her research focuses on monitoring and management of wetland birds and waterbirds in Minnesota and throughout the Great Lakes region. Her research focuses on documenting movement to identify risk, including exposure to contaminants, and uses mark-recapture techniques to assess population dynamics for species of concern. Bracey has a Ph.D. in conservation biology from the University of Minnesota, where her research focused on conservation and management issues related to inland breeding Common Terns. Bracey’s broad interest is documenting how human activities influence bird populations and how research that integrates ecology, biology, and conservation sciences can be used to better inform management decisions.
- Annie Bracey has worked as an avian ecologist at the University of Minnesota’s Natural Resources Research Institute for over 15 years. Much of her research focuses on monitoring and management of wetland birds and waterbirds in Minnesota and throughout the Great Lakes region. Her research focuses on documenting movement to identify risk, including exposure to contaminants, and uses mark-recapture techniques to assess population dynamics for species of concern. Bracey has a Ph.D. in conservation biology from the University of Minnesota, where her research focused on conservation and management issues related to inland breeding Common Terns. Bracey’s broad interest is documenting how human activities influence bird populations and how research that integrates ecology, biology, and conservation sciences can be used to better inform management decisions.
Date
Thursday, April 2, 2026
Time
Noon to 1:00 p.m. CT
Registration
Registration is required to attend this free virtual event.
Event sponsors
Practical Water Wisdom: A Virtual Learning Series is presented by Itasca Waters with support from:
- Minnesota Sea Grant
- Itasca Soil and Water Conservation District
- Itasca Coalition of Lake Associations
- KAXE/KBXE
- Rapids Radio
- Grand Rapids Herald Review
Contact
John A. Downing, director, Minnesota Sea Grant.