2026 CSI Summer Conference: Teach Together

Join us for a presentation on Lewis & Clark’s contributions to our understanding of Idaho’s native plants.  From ponderosa pine and Oregon grape to wild mock orange (our state flower), shrubby penstemon and camas lily, Lewis and Clark carefully documented the native flora of our state. Also an optional tour of Orton Botanical Garden is available in the hour after the session.

Restrooms are available on-site. Parking is available either at the garden entrance or along the street in front of the house at 821 Filer Avenue West.  The left door is the classroom entrance. 

Participants will assess the health of CSI's Perinne drain according to the U of I Extension IDAH20 Master Water Stewards Protocol.  Participants will collect data on macroinvertebrates, pH, dissolved oxygen, turbidity, and temperature, and discuss ways of incorporating field learning into their curriculum for students.

This presentation will address the ongoing challenge of maintaining meaningful student engagement in fully online introductory chemistry courses. CHEM 100 at the College of Southern Idaho serves a diverse population of students—many of whom are non‑majors, returning adults, or students completing prerequisites for health‑related programs. These students often enter the course with limited confidence in science, competing life responsibilities, and a strong desire for content that feels relevant and accessible. The seminar will present practical, evidence‑based strategies for increasing engagement, improving clarity, and creating a more supportive online learning environment.

LaMar after living in Okinawa Japan for several years, as well as years collecting an extensive shell collection has developed a class that examines this collection with it's many shells, their creatures, and an educational slideshow. Class held at the Orton Botanical Garden classroom. Class is one hour, and LaMar through shell education will propose that these animals are a vital part of our environment and the different threats they face. The class will be followed by an optional garden tour.  Please note: This class is in the garden classroom.  

Restrooms are available on-site. Parking is available either at the garden entrance or along the street in front of the house at 821 Filer Avenue West.  The left door is the classroom entrance. 

This class will cover and understanding of our current water usage, our local climate, and an understanding of drought tolerant plants and how to get them established in the landscape. We will also take a walk through the gardens to look at the principles discussed in action.