WABASSO ISLAND – Ecotour guides, volunteers, employees of parks, nature centers, museums or historical sites, teachers seeking continuing education, and individuals deeply interested in the environment, should all consider enrolling in the Master Naturalist Program sponsored by the University of Florida and conducted at the Environmental Learning Center. There are three modules that cover coastal systems, freshwater wetlands, and uplands habitats. Students successfully completing the three modules receive a Master Naturalist Certificate from the University of Florida. The Uplands Habitat Module will be conducted at the ELC from January 4 to February 17. Classes take place on most Tuesdays and Thursdays from 6 to 8 pm, plus a few Saturdays for field excursions. Through classroom, field trip, and practical experience, students receive instruction on the general ecology, habitats, vegetation types, wildlife, and conservation issues of upland habitats in Florida.
The cost for this module is $225/person. The only requirements of the students are enthusiasm, attendance, and completion of the final group projects. There are no exams.
For more information about the program or to register, visit www.MasterNaturalist.org, or call Heather Stapleton, at 772-589-5050.