Discovering the Hidden World of the Treetops with National Geographic Explorer Nalini Nadkarni

From Roots to Canopy drew hundreds of attendees to Field Hall, which is a relatively new addition to the Port Angeles waterfront. Among the crowd were current and former NatureBridge staff, regional and national board members, local teachers and school administrators, and friends and supporters, all united by a shared commitment to environmental education. 

In the lobby, NatureBridge staff hosted a table featuring an interactive "skins and skulls" exhibit displaying several of the specimens from our campus lab. Attendees had the opportunity to engage with real animal pelts and skulls, learning about the diverse wildlife that inhabits the ecosystems of Olympic National Park. This hands-on exhibit provided an exciting way for guests to connect with nature in a tangible way before they headed into Nalini’s presentation. It also offered community members the opportunity to learn about NatureBridge and the environmental education lessons our students experience.

With her infectious passion for trees and their ecosystems, Nalini transported the audience high into the treetops, unveiling the unseen wonders of canopy life—from delicate mosses to elusive wildlife. Through her breathtaking visuals and compelling stories, Nalini captured attendees’ imagination and demonstrated how forests shape our world, influence human history, and inspire deep connections to nature. 

As the evening drew to a close, members of the audience had the chance to ask Nalini questions. Thought-provoking discussions about tree ecology, research, and conservation unfolded. But one moment in particular stood out, when an audience member asked Nalini, "Can I communicate with a tree?"

Without missing a beat, Nalini responded with a warm smile, saying that yes, she believed they could—but then added, "What you're really asking is, 'Can I perceive the tree’s response?'"

The crowd immediately broke into passionate applause, struck by the profound impact of her words. It was a reminder that nature is always communicating with us—we just have to learn how to listen.

Header photo courtesy of National Geographic