Arkansas Master Naturalists chapter seeks new members

For anyone who is feeling a bit of cabin fever after a year of social distancing, quarantines and lockdowns, the Arkansas Master Naturalists just might have the cure. This statewide, independent, all-volunteer organization promotes the preservation, restoration and appreciation of the natural environment.

Robin Harris, president-elect of the Foothills Arkansas Master Naturalists, said the group “plans to make next year a big year in the great outdoors,” and all are invited to join the organization. The chapter is receiving applications for new members.

As Naturalists-in-Training, members begin with a series of courses that explore diverse topics in nature, ranging from astronomy to herpetology to zoology. Classes meet Saturdays, starting in January. Registration is limited to 30 applicants.

“Because of restrictions presently imposed by the pandemic, most classroom sessions will be offered online, but field studies will be held in-person while adhering strictly to COVID-19 protocol,” said Margaret Cline, director of curriculum for the group. Some of this year’s courses are as follows:

• Arkansas Eco-regions.

• Arkansas Birds and Birding.

• Trail Construction and Maintenance.

• Various wild-land-management topics.

• Guided field studies at the Cove Creek Natural Area, the Grassy Lake Water Trail and the Bluffton Preserve.

Once training is completed, Master Naturalists participate in hands-on projects such as the following:

• Habit restoration.

• Stream-health monitoring (the Stream Team).

• Wildlife rescue and rehabilitation.

• Guided nature walks.

• Citizen science programs.

• Trail construction and maintenance.

But the course is not all work, and there are no tests. Besides planting trees, scouting streambeds for bugs or clearing trails, members also take part in organized hikes, float trips, cave exploration and other nature-related field trips.

The Foothills Arkansas Master Naturalists group routinely works with the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission, the Arkansas Natural Heritage Commission, Arkansas State Parks, universities, The Nature Conservancy, The Audubon Society and others.

The state organization comprises eight regional chapters, including the Foothills chapter, which draws volunteers from Faulkner, White, Cleburne, Van Buren, Conway, Pope and Perry counties.

To learn more, visit arkansasmasternaturalists.org or email foothillsamn@gmail.com for more information. The group can also be found on Facebook at Foothills Arkansas Master Naturalists.