Ever wondered what a naturalist actually does? Or maybe you’re ready to take the next step and become a certified Master Naturalist yourself. Either way, we’ve got just the thing for you.

On Saturday, July 19, join us for the third installment in our 5th series of Certification Workshops—Basic Field Skills—a day designed to inspire, inform, and equip curious minds of all kinds. Whether you’re new to the world of naturalism or already knee-deep in field guides and bird calls, this workshop is your chance to connect with like-minded explorers and deepen your understanding of the natural world.
📍 Where?

We’ll be gathering at St. Thomas’ on the Bayou Episcopal Church in Monroe (3706 Bon Aire Dr), in the cozy and conveniently located Canterbury Room. Doors open at 9:00 a.m.
📝 What’s on the Agenda?
Here’s what your day of discovery will look like:
- 9:00–10:15 a.m. – The Art & Practice of Nature Journaling with Kim Paxton
Learn how to observe and record the wonders around you, transforming your experiences into lasting reflections.

- 10:30–11:45 a.m. – Observing for Citizen Science with Bette Kauffman
Get hands-on with platforms like iNaturalist and eBird and discover how your observations can contribute to real scientific research.

🌳 Whether you’re chasing certification or just want to see what all the buzz is about, we’d love to have you join us. Bring your curiosity, your questions, and some bug spray and water, and your walking shoes. Bring a notebook or journal – you’ll want to put your new skills to use. A camera or cell phone will be useful in gathering pictures and using the apps.

Let nature teach you something new this July. See you on the path!