Tuesday, March 15, 2011 - Florida Master Naturalist Program Being Offered May 9 - June 25

The University of Florida / IFAS – St. Lucie County Extension, the Savannas State Preserve, the Oxbow Eco-Center, the Manatee Observation and Education Center and partnering agencies are pleased to announce the upcoming Florida Master Naturalist Program (FMNP) Coastal Module beginning May 9.  This FMNP Coast Module is a 40-hour educational program designed to teach students about Florida's coastal natural systems.  Participants will receive an overview of the plants and animals that depend upon natural systems including an examination of the role of humankind as stewards of the land. The objectives of the Florida Master Naturalist Program are to prepare participants to share their knowledge with others, to act in a positive manner, to help others feel a greater connection to the land and to help others to develop their own personal land ethic.  Through classroom, field trip, and practical experience, this coastal module provides instruction on the general ecology, habitats, vegetation types, wildlife, and conservation issues of coastal areas in Florida.  The program also addresses society's role in coastal areas, develops naturalist interpretation skills, and discusses environmental ethics.

Instructors
Ken Gioeli, East Central Florida Master Naturalist Facilitator, UF Extension Agent
Wren Underwood, Master Naturalist Instructor, Professional Biologist
Lesley Vincent-Ryder, Master Naturalist Instructor, Manatee Center Education Coordinator
Amanda Thompson, Master Naturalist Instructor, Oxbow Eco-Center Education Coordinator
Heidi Vestrem, Florida Master Naturalist Instructor

When:  Monday evenings and Saturdays, May 9 - June 25
 
Registration: Registration for this course is now open at http://masternaturalist.org. Registration closes April 14

Cost:  $225

Location: Savannas Preserve State Park, Savannas Education Center, 2541 Walton Road, Port St. Lucie, Fla. 34952

Information:  Call the St. Lucie County Extension Office at 772-462-1660 for information