Cornell Plantations has partnered with the 92nd Street Y in New York City for its "Changing Earth" lecture series. The seven-part series began in November and will take place monthly through May 2012 as part of the Y's First Class Science adult education program.

The series features diverse topics and speakers from Cornell and other organizations. Nina Bassuk, professor of horticulture, will deliver the first Plantations-themed lecture of the series, titled "Why Do We Need Trees?," Dec. 7 at 7 p.m. Bassuk is author with Peter Trowbridge of "Trees in the Urban Landscape" and leads the Urban Horticulture Institute at Cornell.

Don Rakow, the E.N. Wilds Director of Cornell Plantations, will give the second Plantations-themed lecture, titled "Why Do We Need Green Spaces? The Importance of Public Gardens and Parks in Our Communities," March 14, 2012. Beyond fulfilling people's need for a connection to nature, Rakow will talk about how the roles of parks and public gardens are changing dramatically in an era of increasing environmental crises.

"In the crowded, fast-paced cities of today, we have a greater need than ever for the beauty and ecological services provided by street trees, parks and public gardens," Rakow said. "In these lectures … participants will learn about ongoing research and outreach efforts to extend the lives of urban trees, as well as the many ways in which public gardens enrich our lives."

Also speaking as part of the "Changing Earth" series will be Jonathan Lunine, Cornell's David C. Duncan Professor of Astronomy. Lunine will speak April 18, 2012 on the possibility of life on other planets.

The 92nd Street Y serves all ages with programming in music, art, education and health for New Yorkers of all denominations and ages. Cornell Plantations is the botanical gardens, arboretum and natural areas of Cornell and is a member of Ithaca's Discovery Trail partnership.