| The Louisiana Master Naturalist Association (LMNA) announced that Larry Allain, renowned botanist, prairie restoration expert, and lifelong advocate for Louisiana’s native ecosystems, will receive the 2026 Caroline Dormon Outstanding Louisiana Naturalist Award. The award will be presented during a post‑dinner ceremony on April 11, 2026, from 7–8 p.m. in the Homewood Suites Ballroom in Lafayette, Louisiana. The statewide honor is given annually to an individual whose life’s work reflects exceptional dedication to the study, preservation, and interpretation of Louisiana’s natural heritage. Allain was nominated by Bayli Quick Brosette of Briarwood, The Caroline Dormon Nature Preserve, the historic home of the award’s namesake. A Lifetime Devoted to Louisiana’s Natural World To know Larry Allain is, as colleagues often say, “to know nature itself.” His career spans more than four decades of scientific research, ecological restoration, public education, and hands‑on conservation. Raised on a sugarcane plantation in Jeanerette, Allain’s early fascination with plants grew into a distinguished professional life marked by innovation, curiosity, and service. Allain’s contributions include: Botanical and ecological research at the U.S. Geological Survey’s National Wetlands Research Center, where he advanced understanding of prairie ecosystems, invasive species, pollinator ecology, and coastal habitats. Creation of major scientific tools, including the Coastal Prairie Restoration Information System and the widely used online Guide to the Plants of Louisiana, featuring more than 1,700 species and over 5,000 of his own photographs. Leadership in restoration initiatives, such as the Louisiana Native Plant Initiative and the Coastal Prairie Native Seed Initiative, which have transformed access to genetically appropriate native plant materials. Extensive volunteer service, mentoring landowners, agencies, students, and naturalists across the Gulf Coast. Pioneering ecological farming, integrating prairie, pollinator habitat, and regenerative agriculture on his family farm.Colleagues describe Allain as a “perpetual student of nature,” a meticulous observer, and a generous teacher whose work has shaped the future of prairie conservation in Louisiana and beyond. Honoring a Legacy in the Spirit of Caroline Dormon The Caroline Dormon Award recognizes individuals whose achievements echo the legacy of Caroline Dormon—botanist, artist, educator, and one of Louisiana’s earliest conservation champions. LMNA President Katherine Gividen will present the award. “Larry Allain embodies the spirit of Caroline Dormon,” Gividen said. “His scientific rigor, his passion for native landscapes, and his lifelong commitment to sharing knowledge have enriched Louisiana’s natural heritage in profound and lasting ways.” |
Author: charlespaxton
March 28, 2026. The STEAM Room at ULM’s Hanna Hall was the perfect venue for the classroom portion of our Louisiana Master Naturalists – Northeast Mammals Workshop with ULM Biology Professor Dr. Ana Couvillon. This was an extremely good introduction to mammals at large, and NELA’s mammals in particular!
We began with a deep dive into what defines a mammal, how different species live and adapt, and the conservation challenges they face. From evolutionary origins to hands‑on examination of pelts, skull physiology and dentition, the presentation built a strong foundation for anyone curious about Louisiana’s wildlife or working toward Master Naturalist certification.
After lunch, the workshop shifts outdoors to Russell Sage Wildlife Management Area—one of northeast Louisiana’s richest habitats—for an immersive field experience. Dr. Ana and her graduate students will demonstrate camera‑trap setups, guide small‑mammal survey techniques, and walk participants through real‑world data collection and species identification. It’s a rare chance to pair scientific insight with boots‑on‑the‑ground exploration, wrapping up with announcements in the field as the day winds downWe were blessed with a dynamic introduction to mammalogy; beginning with a very well-paced, engaging, and informative illustrated lecture with opportunity for Q&A that explored topical subjects of our interest. Then we learned principles of scientific identification and anatomical measurement and observation through a set of practical activities that she arranged for us. These included a guided introduction to identifying mammals with a dichotomous key of distinguishing characteristics, the techniques for measurement of mammalian skulls to explore their anatomical physiology, and real samples of Louisiana mammals for hands-on observation of physiology and fur quality.
After lunch, we gathered at Monroe’s magnificent Russell Sage Wildlife Management Area for some field work with Ana and her wonderful team of Grad student volunteers! They introduced us to the equipment and techniques that they use in their field research for live trapping and safe mammal handling, radio tagging, camera trapping and tracking with radio telemetry and specialist software.
It was the perfect weather for our sorties into the woods where we located and examined live traps, saw some fine Monarchs, skinks, fungi and wildflowers on the way. We were shown proper placement of paired wildlife cams and looked through the cards in teams for a taste of the recent mammalian comings and goings, of which there were very many. Some glorious posers were among them! We saw: numerous White-tailed deer, pigs, coyotes, Virginia Opossums, raccoons, rabbits, squirrels, even an owl!
It was a very nice window into their world! As a finale, teams returned to the woods to use the surprisingly heavy telemetry tracking system to locate targets. I think we were all impressed by what the professional study of mammalogy entails and what it reveals!
It was great to hear the grad students explain their projects too!
Their work is answering important questions about behaviors, populations, ranges, predator -prey dynamics and much besides!
Rooted in Acadiana — A Weekend of Science, Culture, and Hands‑On Discovery
It’s not too late to book your place at The 2026 LMNA Rendezvous. This highlight of the Louisiana naturalists’ year brings together naturalists, scientists, artists, and community leaders for a rich weekend of learning across Acadiana’s most iconic landscapes. This year’s workshop lineup blends cutting‑edge research, immersive field experiences, and creative exploration — all grounded in Louisiana’s unique ecological and cultural heritage. This is a fantastic opportunity to experience Acadiana’s wonders, network with kindred spirits, and learn a whole lot!
Friday: Science, Storytelling & Nighttime Discovery
The weekend opens with The World of Viruses, an accessible, eye‑opening session revealing how viruses shape ecosystems in ways far beyond human disease. Researchers share new possibilities for mosquito‑specific viruses and the hidden viral worlds inside red algae.
That evening, participants gather for a private screening of Louisiana Grass Roots, a documentary celebrating the region’s endangered coastal prairie and the cultural identity rooted in it. A Q&A with producer Dr. Phyllis Griffard deepens the conversation around restoration and community action.
After dark, naturalists head into the field for rotating adventures in moth sheeting, herping, bat observation, and stargazing — a chance to experience Louisiana’s nocturnal biodiversity up close.
Saturday Morning: Birds, Citizen Science & Conservation in Action
The day begins at Cypress Island Preserve, where volunteers lead a bird walk focused on prothonotary warblers and the citizen‑science project supporting them. Participants learn how nest boxes are monitored and how they can contribute at home.
Back at the conference center, our own Dr. Bette Kauffman introduces naturalists to the power of online citizen‑science platforms, with a deep dive into eBird and iNaturalist.
At the ULL Ecology Center, a series of behind‑the‑scenes tours showcases native seed banking, oyster sustainability research, and the Acadiana Native Plant Project’s greenhouse operations. These sessions highlight how restoration, aquaculture innovation, and native plant propagation intersect to support Louisiana’s future.
Meanwhile, Mark Shirley offers a compelling look at Louisiana’s global leadership in alligator conservation — a story of ecological balance, economic value, and long‑term stewardship.
Midday: Pollinators, Fireflies & Prehistoric Louisiana
Larry Allain (Our 2026 Caroline Dormon Award Winner) and Kimberly Hamm lead a practical workshop on native pollinators, offering strategies for supporting these essential species through habitat restoration and thoughtful planting.
In the tabling area, Bri Carpenter introduces a new LSU AgCenter initiative focused on restoring native firefly habitat — a timely effort as populations decline across the Southeast.
Chris Kingwill then transports participants into deep time with Prehistoric Louisiana, a vivid exploration of ancient landscapes and the wildlife that once shaped them.
Saturday Afternoon: Prairie Ecology, Art‑Science Fusion & Creative Expression
At Atelier de la Nature, naturalists explore a restored prairie, learning about land management and long‑term restoration strategies before venturing into a sculpture forest that blends art and ecology.
Artist‑biologist Dr. Brandon Ballengée leads Masters of Adaptation, an art‑science workshop on Gulf fish diversity and specimen drawing, celebrating the extraordinary evolutionary success of fishes.
Back at the conference center, Roots and Quills invites participants to use nature as a catalyst for writing and creative expression — a session designed to spark ideas that can be carried into future community programs.
Nearby, artist Susan David demonstrates the traditional Japanese technique of Gyotaku fish printing, giving participants a hands‑on opportunity to create their own prints.
Late Afternoon: Insects & Art as Conservation Storytelling
Steve Barney’s Insect Talk and Display offers an up‑close look at Louisiana’s arthropods, highlighting their ecological roles and surprising diversity.
The day concludes with a wine‑and‑cheese reception for Drawn to Nature, an exhibition celebrating both historic naturalist‑artists and contemporary LMN creators. It’s a beautiful reminder of how art and science together deepen our understanding of biodiversity.
The evening dinner will celebrate our Dormon Award Winner and we’ll enjoy this outstanding Louisiana Naturalist’s Keynote speech!
Join us for a full day of discovery as the Louisiana Master Naturalists – Northeast dive into the biology, diversity, and conservation of our state’s mammals under the expert tutelage of ULM’s Dr. Ana Couvillon. This workshop blends classroom learning with hands‑on field experience at one of northeast Louisiana’s richest wildlife areas. This Workshop can count towards your certification as a Louisiana Master Naturalist!
Saturday, March 28, 2026
9 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Location: ULM & Russell Sage WMA
Classroom Tuition
9:00 a.m.: We’ll convene in the Natural History Museum STEAM Room, Hanna Hall 1st Floor, ULM Campus
Classroom topics:
- Mammalian origin story & what makes a mammal a mammal
- Diversity & life histories of mammals
- Mammal management & conservation; mammals of Louisiana
- Research into mammal biology & ecology
- Examining specimens (pelts, dentition, etc.)
11:30 a.m.: Break to travel and eat along the way (make your own arrangements).
Afternoon: Field Work at Russell Sage WMA (12:30–2:45 p.m.)
Reconvene at Russell Sage WMA, where Dr. Ana and graduate students will guide us through:
- Camera trap demonstrations
- Small mammal survey techniques
- Data collection and species identification in the field
We’ll wrap up with announcements around 2:45 p.m. wherever the fieldwork concludes.
Special notes: All adults must have a LWF Permit.
🌿 Headed to Russell Sage WMA for our forthcoming Mammals workshop field trip?
Here’s a quick reminder for all participants — EVERY adult needs a WMA Access Permit, no matter your reason for visiting. They are great value because the Russell Sage is an amazing wildlife area.
Getting your permit online is easy:
👉 Visit **LouisianaOutdoors.com**
👉 Select **Buy Licenses**
👉 Choose **WMA Access Permit** (Annual $20 or 5‑Day $5)
or you can purchase one from an authorized vendor.
Save a screenshot or print a copy before you arrive — cell service can be spotty inside the WMA.
Minors (under 18):
No permit needed—they’re exempt!
Bring your permit (digital or printed) when visiting the WMA!
Thanks for helping us model responsible stewardship and support LDWF’s conservation work. See you in the field! 🌱🦉
- Bring the usual field gear: notebook, pencil, camera, ruler. (I learned the importance of rulers at our first mammals workshop and now carry several small ones in my camera bag.) Binoculars also good, if you have them.
- Dress for outdoors. Bring bug spray and your own water and snacks as needed. Right now, the long-term forecast is for a pleasant day, with temps in the high 60s, low 70s, and no precipitation. We’ll check that again closer to the date.
- We are going onto a State Wildlife Management Area. “Either a WMA Access Annual or 5-day Permit is required for all users of LDWF administered lands, including wildlife management areas, refuges and wetlands conservation areas (LDWF website).”
- If you want to pay for the workshop on site, please notify Bette Kauffman or Charles Paxton that you are coming in advance. Also, please arrive 15 minutes early so we can conduct the business first and then focus on the expert tuition.
Master Naturalists across Louisiana are encouraged to bring their artistic eye to the forefront this spring as Atelier de la Nature opens submissions for its upcoming group exhibition, “Drawn to Nature: Artist Naturalists Celebrating Louisiana’s Biodiversity.”
For generations, Louisiana’s wetlands, forests, and wildlife have stirred the imagination of artists and naturalists alike. This exhibition celebrates that long tradition by highlighting how today’s creators continue to interpret the state’s rich ecological heritage.
🎨 A Conversation Across Time
One of the exhibition’s most compelling features is its blend of contemporary work with pieces by renowned historic artist‑naturalists who once documented Louisiana’s species. Among the historic figures represented are:
- John James Audubon (1785–1851)
- Mark Catesby (1683–1749)
- Lorenz Oken (1779–1851)
- Rex Brasher (1869–1960)
Your contribution as a Louisiana Master Naturalist adds a modern chapter to this ongoing story—showing how today’s observers continue to find wonder in the state’s landscapes and wildlife.
📅 Key Dates for Exhibiting Artists
The exhibition aligns with the 2026 Louisiana Master Naturalist Rendezvous and concludes during the Fête de la Nature BioBlitz.
- Artwork Drop‑off Deadline: Saturday, April 4, 2026 (or earlier)
- Exhibition End Date: May 2, 2026
- Artwork Pick‑up: Sunday, May 3, 2026 (or later)
🖼 Submission Details
Atelier de la Nature welcomes polished, professionally presented works inspired by Louisiana’s natural world.
- Presentation: All pieces must be framed and ready to hang.
- Size: No strict size limitations.
- Multiple Works: Artists wishing to submit more than one piece should contact the organizers to coordinate.
Questions or coordination requests may be directed to Brandon Ballengée at:
brandon.ballengee[@]gmail.com (remove brackets to activate).
📍 Visit the Venue
Atelier de la Nature
1050 Andrew Gautreaux Road
Arnaudville, Louisiana 70512
http://www.atelierdelanature.org
