LAKE TAHOE, Calif. – Every organism leaves traces of its genetic identity behind—tiny fragments of DNA shed into water, soil, and air. Scientists can now collect and analyze these genetic clues, known as environmental DNA (or eDNA), to detect species without ever seeing or capturing them.

During their next talk at Lake Tahoe on January 22, Dr. Andrea Schreier of UC Davis will reveal how her team uses eDNA to study fish and wildlife across California and beyond. From tracking endangered species and invasive invaders in the Bay-Delta to monitoring fish communities in restored wetlands, eDNA is transforming how we understand and manage aquatic ecosystems. Dr. Schreier will discuss how this technology works, what it can—and can’t—tell us, and how innovations like CRISPR-based detection tools are opening new frontiers in conservation genomics. Join us to explore how modern molecular techniques are helping scientists become true DNA detectives, uncovering hidden biodiversity in our changing world.

Presentation by Dr. Andrea Schreier, Director of the UC Davis Genomic Variation Laboratory.

In-person Event Details

Date: Thursday, January 22, 2026

Time: Doors open at 5:00 p.m. Presentation begins at 6:00 p.m.

Location: Sunnyside Restaurant & Lodge

Enjoy dinner at Sunnyside before or after the presentation and receive 20% off your entire meal. If you plan to dine during the presentation, please arrive early and place your order before the presentation begins, as no orders will be taken after 5:45pm. Diners will be required to put down a credit card which will be closed out before the end of the presentation.

Tickets: Tickets purchased in advance are $10 through Eventbrite and free for students with a student ID. Tickets at the door are $15. Get tickets HERE.

For more information, call 775-881-7560, ext. 7566, or email tercinfo@ucdavis.edu.