Naturalist program fosters deeper connections with nature

Do you love spending time outdoors? Are long walks in the woods, hiking, or bird watching some of your favorite activities? If so, you’re not alone. But you’re also not alone if you wish you knew more about the natural world around you and would enjoy spending time with others who share your passions..

That’s why the Ashland Soil and Water Conservation District (SWCD) has partnered with Darwin’s Dream and renowned area naturalist Carrie Elvey to bring an Ohio Certified Volunteer Naturalist (OCVN) program to Ashland County. This is the second year they are offering the course in Ashland County.

“The Ohio Certified Volunteer Naturalist program is for anyone who has wanted to create a deeper connection with nature or delve deeper into the natural sciences,” said Carrie Elvey, who will be leading the course. Elvey a former senior naturalist at The Wilderness Center and has been named the OCVN teacher of the year on two occasions. “No experience or knowledge is necessary—just a desire to explore, engage and have fun.”

The course will take place on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from June 19-30 during the day, from 9 a.m. until 4 p.m. at the Hazel Willis Woods, a 40-acre outdoor learning laboratory just south of Mifflin owned and operated by the Ashland Soil and Water Conservation District.

The OCVN program is designed to produce a balanced, practical, hand-on course in natural history. Topics covered will include ecological concepts, nature interpretation, stewardship, and the fundamental identification skills and natural history of Ohio’s flora and fauna.

As Ohio’s population becomes more and more urban, people sometimes struggle making connections to nature. But those meaningful connections are important, because the instill an appreciation for the natural world and help spark a passion to manage and conserve those resources for future generations.

OCVN gives participants an opportunity to develop their knowledge and skills in a hands-on way when it comes to Ohio’s environment and natural history. Participants then apply what they’ve learned through service to local parks, museums, nature centers and arboretums.

“We need to know, love and understand the natural world to make sound decisions,” Elvey said. “We also need to connect socially with others who share our passions and remember the joys of discovery and exploration. Last, but certainly not least, we need to share what we love with others and help our friends, families and communities connect with nature.”

Registration for the course is $195 and includes all program materials and resources, instruction and snacks. The woods provides plenty of opportunities for education and exploration. The property contains a Loop Road then circles the perimeter of the 40 acres as well as a primitive cabin, garage, outhouses and pavilion. Registration is available online at https://www.eventbrite.com/e/2023-ohio-certified-volunteer-naturalist-training-tickets-539630919607?fbclid=IwAR1ExQz2-XOSFmPzBbqFl3vEcs0xd7ArJDjlBVI4RQepOj4EGNeoEjvWAJc

For more information, contact Ruth McCrea at Ashland SWCD at 419-281-7645.