Fred Elser First Sunday Science: The Dust Bowl
Sunday, January 4, 2026, 2–3pm, Floren Family Environmental Center at Innis Arden Cottage, Greenwich Point Park, Old Greenwich, CT
In the modern world we fear that a changing climate will disrupt homes and livelihoods, even cause people to become migrants. Such an event occurred in the US in the 1930’s as moist weather in the southern plains returned to dry. Farmers who had invested all their resources in growing wheat, found they could not make a go of it. Some moved to California hoping to find work in agriculture there. Many were disappointed. This is their story, as told in song by Sis Cunningham and Woody Guthrie.
This program is free of charge. No beach pass is required if you are attending the Fred Elser First Sunday Science. Please let them know at the gate you are attending the Bruce Museum Seaside Center lecture. First Sunday Science programs take place at the Floren Family Environmental Center at Innis Arden Cottage, Greenwich Point Park, Old Greenwich, CT.
Dr. Mitch Wagener teaches ecology and climate change courses at Western Connecticut State University in Danbury. In 2019, he received the Aquarion Environmental Champion Award, Individual Communication category. That same year Dr. Wagener received an official citation from the Connecticut General Assembly for his efforts in climate change education and community service. His research interests include the impact of historical events—such as the Industrial Revolution—on the environment.
