CALIFORNIA, KY (July 9, 2026) – On July 25,Thomas More University’s Biology Field Station will host its third annual concert supporting conservation efforts along the Ohio River, including education and outreach programs.

‘Raisin’ Hellbenders on the River: Concert for Conservation’ will take place on Saturday, July 25 from 3-9 p.m. at the Thomas More University Biology Field Station, 8309 Mary Ingles Highway in California, KY. All members of the media and the general public are invited to attend.

The event will also feature the unveiling of the Biology Field Station’s new mural titled “Current Events” and a meet-and-greet with Artist-in-Residence and Thomas More alum Michael Thompson ’21. Made possible by the Helen, Henry, and Louise Dornette Foundation, the mural showcases local river life, including a hellbender, fish, and freshwater mussels.

“The Biology Field Station was one of my favorite parts of my time at Thomas More University, and I’m thrilled to return and collaborate with one of the University’s gems,” said Thompson. “This mural celebrates our treasured river ecosystem, and I hope it will remain an iconic part of the landscape for years to come.”

“We’re excited to spotlight Kentucky’s rich aquatic biodiversity, and we know this mural will engage the public — especially K-12 students,” said Molly Pope, Biology Field Station Residence Director. “It’s a creative way to showcase our work while complementing and enhancing our science education efforts.”

Named for North America’s largest salamander species, hellbenders (Cryptobranchus alleganiensis), are amphibians that are native to the Ohio River Basin and serve as indicators of high water quality. Along with freshwater mussels, they are a key conservation focus at Thomas More University’s Biology Field Station. Through its conservation efforts, the Field Station also helps protect regional drinking water sources and safeguard public health.

“We encourage visitors of all ages to engage with our education and research programs while enjoying the beauty of the Ohio River and the recreational opportunities it provides,” said Dr. Kendall Simon, Biology Field Station Manager. “Large-scale murals like this help bridge the gap between art and science and inspire visitors to think more broadly about their relationship with the natural world.”

“Thanks to our strong partnerships with state, local, and federal agencies, as well as corporate and nonprofit organizations, we’re able to monitor and protect water quality throughout Northern Kentucky and Greater Cincinnati while helping develop the next generation of STEM professionals,” said Chris Lorentz, PhD., director of the Center for Ohio River Research and Education at the Biology Field Station and director of Thomas More University’s Environmental Science program.

This family-friendly event will feature live music from MA Crow & Co., Sonya Moomaw, Get Down River, Maria Carrelli, and Porch Goose. Attendees can also hike the Biology Field Station floodplain nature trail, tour the field station labs and facilities, and kayak for free.

Ticket prices begin at $15 and children ages 5 and under are free. Water will be provided, and food, soda, and alcoholic beverages can be purchased on site. Outside food and drinks, including coolers, are not permitted. Registered guests will receive parking instructions the week of July 20.

Click here to see photos from previous events. For more information and to register, please visit the concert landing page at tmuky.us/bfsconcert and the ticket page at tmuky.us/concertrsvp.

To become a friend of the Thomas More University Biology Field Station please visit https://tmuky.us/friends.