In 1859, Charles Darwin provided a great explanation of how species came to exist in their present forms. Even so, evolution and natural selection are among the most complex of all scientific principles. As we near the 200th anniversary of Darwin’s voyage around the world (1831), we will look back at what he observed and said.

We will then use this lens to look at life in the monument today. What would Darwin say about Bighorn Sheep?  How can he help us understand about Prickly Pears and Collared Lizards? Finally, we will look at the components of evolution Darwin didn’t (and couldn’t) understand and apply them to life in the monument.

Tim Beagley earned his PhD in Biology with an emphasis on Molecular Evolution.  He taught Molecular Biology and Microbiology to college students for 37 years. Dr. Beagley now serves as a Volunteer In the Park (VIP) for Colorado National Monument where he assists with the park education programs.

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Monument on Tap, a new series that will take the learning out of the park while supporting our local community. Monthly education series to be held on Thursdays at local breweries around town. Our 1st group of lectures will be held outdoors at Foam and Folly in downtown Grand Junction.

Please RSVP – Arrive at 5pm to grab a beverage, lecture starts at 5:30pm