Rooted in Acadiana — A Weekend of Science, Culture, and Hands‑On Discovery
It’s not too late to book your place at The 2026 LMNA Rendezvous. This highlight of the Louisiana naturalists’ year brings together naturalists, scientists, artists, and community leaders for a rich weekend of learning across Acadiana’s most iconic landscapes. This year’s workshop lineup blends cutting‑edge research, immersive field experiences, and creative exploration — all grounded in Louisiana’s unique ecological and cultural heritage. This is a fantastic opportunity to experience Acadiana’s wonders, network with kindred spirits, and learn a whole lot!
Friday: Science, Storytelling & Nighttime Discovery
The weekend opens with The World of Viruses, an accessible, eye‑opening session revealing how viruses shape ecosystems in ways far beyond human disease. Researchers share new possibilities for mosquito‑specific viruses and the hidden viral worlds inside red algae.
That evening, participants gather for a private screening of Louisiana Grass Roots, a documentary celebrating the region’s endangered coastal prairie and the cultural identity rooted in it. A Q&A with producer Dr. Phyllis Griffard deepens the conversation around restoration and community action.
After dark, naturalists head into the field for rotating adventures in moth sheeting, herping, bat observation, and stargazing — a chance to experience Louisiana’s nocturnal biodiversity up close.
Saturday Morning: Birds, Citizen Science & Conservation in Action
The day begins at Cypress Island Preserve, where volunteers lead a bird walk focused on prothonotary warblers and the citizen‑science project supporting them. Participants learn how nest boxes are monitored and how they can contribute at home.
Back at the conference center, our own Dr. Bette Kauffman introduces naturalists to the power of online citizen‑science platforms, with a deep dive into eBird and iNaturalist.
At the ULL Ecology Center, a series of behind‑the‑scenes tours showcases native seed banking, oyster sustainability research, and the Acadiana Native Plant Project’s greenhouse operations. These sessions highlight how restoration, aquaculture innovation, and native plant propagation intersect to support Louisiana’s future.
Meanwhile, Mark Shirley offers a compelling look at Louisiana’s global leadership in alligator conservation — a story of ecological balance, economic value, and long‑term stewardship.
Midday: Pollinators, Fireflies & Prehistoric Louisiana
Larry Allain (Our 2026 Caroline Dormon Award Winner) and Kimberly Hamm lead a practical workshop on native pollinators, offering strategies for supporting these essential species through habitat restoration and thoughtful planting.
In the tabling area, Bri Carpenter introduces a new LSU AgCenter initiative focused on restoring native firefly habitat — a timely effort as populations decline across the Southeast.
Chris Kingwill then transports participants into deep time with Prehistoric Louisiana, a vivid exploration of ancient landscapes and the wildlife that once shaped them.
Saturday Afternoon: Prairie Ecology, Art‑Science Fusion & Creative Expression
At Atelier de la Nature, naturalists explore a restored prairie, learning about land management and long‑term restoration strategies before venturing into a sculpture forest that blends art and ecology.
Artist‑biologist Dr. Brandon Ballengée leads Masters of Adaptation, an art‑science workshop on Gulf fish diversity and specimen drawing, celebrating the extraordinary evolutionary success of fishes.
Back at the conference center, Roots and Quills invites participants to use nature as a catalyst for writing and creative expression — a session designed to spark ideas that can be carried into future community programs.
Nearby, artist Susan David demonstrates the traditional Japanese technique of Gyotaku fish printing, giving participants a hands‑on opportunity to create their own prints.
Late Afternoon: Insects & Art as Conservation Storytelling
Steve Barney’s Insect Talk and Display offers an up‑close look at Louisiana’s arthropods, highlighting their ecological roles and surprising diversity.
The day concludes with a wine‑and‑cheese reception for Drawn to Nature, an exhibition celebrating both historic naturalist‑artists and contemporary LMN creators. It’s a beautiful reminder of how art and science together deepen our understanding of biodiversity.
The evening dinner will celebrate our Dormon Award Winner and we’ll enjoy this outstanding Louisiana Naturalist’s Keynote speech!
