Without the work and dedication of Rachel Carson, we may not know as much as we do about clean air and the ozone layer.

The one-woman performance “A Sense of Wonder” will pay tribute to Carson tonight at 8 in the Maintenance Shop.

“Rachel was a scientist that is generally credited with being the mother of the environmental movement,” says Fred Kirschenmann, Leopold Center director.

Carson became involved in environmental studies when a neighbor of hers discovered dead birds in her backyard, Kirschenmann says.

After investigating, Carson discovered a connection with the dead birds and DDT.

“She was a remarkable woman, and a good scientist,” says Jim Raich, associate professor of botany. “She was one of the first people to put together the idea that local impacts have a broad scale effect on the environment.”

Both Raich and Kirschenmann say it is important to not forget the lessons Carson has taught us, both profession and personal.

The play is a slice of her life, Kirschenmann says. It includes her struggles with the science community, her life experiences and how she felt about the attacks on her.

“[The play] is very powerful and moving,” Kirschenmann says. “The actress really lives the story, and is very committed to presenting it in a fair and passionate way.”

The actress is Kaiulani Lee, who is also the author of the play. Lee became interested in Carson several years ago, Kirschenmann says, and the more she read on her, the more fascinated she became.

“[Carson] underwent some traumatic times in which her integrity was questioned,” he says. “Lee felt the story needed to be told.”

“Carson is a very important person who showed our lives are very closely connected with the world around us,” Raich says. “She is a key historical figure.”

There is no cost to attend “A Sense of Wonder,” and audience members are encouraged to come early for a seat.

“It really lends itself to an intimate audience,” Kirschenmann says.

“Hopefully we can fit everyone in that wants to see it.”