DATE: June 26, 2008
CONTACT:
Brian Callahan, (864) 878-1394
bcallah@clemson.edu
WRITER:
Diane Palmer, (864) 656-4741
spalmer@clemson.edu
Registration begins for Clemson University Master Naturalist program
PICKENS — Clemson University will offer its Master Naturalist program in the Upstate beginning in August.
The program teaches participants how to maintain the quality of our native ecosystems; their geology, inhabitants and ecology; and the impact humans have on them.
The classes will be held at different locations around the Upstate from Aug. 21 through Oct. 30. Most of the classes will be held outdoors with some moderate to light hiking involved. Meeting sites include Caesar’s Head, Table Rock, Stumphouse Tunnel, the Clemson Experimental Forest, Jumping Off Rock and others.
“While many participants in this program may have prior science education, this is certainly not a requirement and everyone will be welcome,” said Brian Callahan, Upstate Master Naturalist coordinator. “We believe that people in this program will bring diverse skills and experiences that will lead to the contribution of time, energy and ideas in maintaining the native ecosystems throughout South Carolina.”
After receiving training, Master Naturalists may volunteer to assist in a nature outreach program at a park, museum, nature center or school; help scientists collect bird census data; gather data on water quality; or for other activities.
The program aims to turn out volunteer citizen-scientists who can have a positive impact on the natural resources of the state.
To register, contact Callahan at the Pickens Extension Service, (864) 878-1395, ext. 115. The cost is $600, which includes all educational resources needed for the program. Registration already has begun and space is extremely limited, so register early. For more information, visit www.clemson.edu/masternaturalist/.
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Clemson University serves the state's citizens, communities and businesses through public service activities that include research, extension and regulatory services for animal and plant health. For more information visit www.clemson.edu/public/.