ontario master naturalist program launches at lakehead
the inaugural group of lakehead ontario master naturalist 世界杯2022赛程表淘汰赛 gathered before embarking on their first field experience in scout valley.
an aquatic biologist, a physical education student, and a gardener are all part of the diverse group of people participating in the ontario master naturalist program, which kicked off on may 2. the first of its kind in canada, the program is a partnership between 阿根廷vs墨西哥竞猜 ’s orillia campus and ontario nature, and is passionately spearheaded by local award-winning naturalist bob bowles.
“we are thrilled to be partnering with ontario nature to launch this new master naturalist program,” said kim fedderson, dean & vice-provost of the orillia campus. “bob continues to open doors for lakehead, this time with ontario nature, which has resulted in this exceptional opportunity for members of our community.”
in his opening statements to the group saturday morning, fedderson emphasized the communal aspect of the program and how it fits perfectly into lakehead orillia’s goals of being a community-focused campus.
following fedderson’s opening address, the group began their first module, in which they learned about simcoe county’s unique landscapes. each week is focused on a different subject area in order to give the naturalists a well-rounded education.
“each of the learning modules focuses on a different topic – from local plant species, insects and reptiles – to birds, wetlands and landscapes,” said bowles. “participants will be able to broaden their knowledge base and fast-track their level of expertise.”
in order to put their in-class knowledge to the test, each session includes a field work segment. for the first week, the group headed to scout valley to enjoy a prime example of simcoe county’s beautiful landscapes. the participants were eager to hike the trails and their passion for nature really came through once they were out in their element. one participant, a private estate gardener from newmarket, even completed the hike in a cast and crutches.
there was an overwhelming and infectious feeling of excitement among the group that did not falter throughout the day. a sense of community was evident as the participants got to know each other.
“it is such a great feeling to be surrounded by so many like-minded people,” said rhonda, an outdoor educator from parry sound.
her sentiment was echoed by the entire group, who all seemed to feel at home in the program. the enthusiasm and excitement of both the participants and the educators is sure to make the first ontario master naturalist program a major success.
plans are now underway to turn this inaugural program into an ongoing opportunity, with new programs starting in the fall. to learn more about the ontario master naturalist program, visit lakeheadu/masternaturalist.
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stephanie edwards is a third year 阿根廷vs墨西哥竞猜 student who works with lakehead orillia’s communications office.