On Saturday, January 21, NCAMN  president, Sharon Boatright, welcomed a new and enthusiastic group of 30 prospective Naturalists in Training at the Gaston Visitor’s Center, Bull Shoals White River State Park. During the morning session, the group listened as President Boatright explained the purpose of NCAMN and AMN and the volunteer activities that members have the opportunity to participate in during the year. The new members were asked to introduce themselves and give a short summary of their background and what bought them to the Naturalist Program. After a short break, Julie Lovett, Interpreter at Bull shoals White River State Park, spoke to the group explaining the volunteer programs NCAMN members are involved in at the park including: Bioinventory Project, Flower Garden Project, and  continuing trail maintenance. She also explained that a very successful partnership has developed between the volunteers and the State Park.

To celebrate the new class, a barbeque lunch, with all the fixings, was provided by NCAMN and served by Susan McNutt and her committee. During lunch, the N.I.T.s and NCAMN members were able to talk and get acquainted. Then, after dessert had been eaten and the last dish cleared, it was on to the afternoon session.  Sandra Chandler from the Arkansas Geological Survey presented an overview of the history and development of the five distinct geological regions of the state. At the break, the class was able to examine samples of rocks and other materials that were displayed. Chandler answered questions at the end of the session.

All in all, it was a very successful first day. The new class exhibits a wonderful cross section of knowledge and experience.

Thanks go to President Boatright, President Elect Roy Stovall, Curriculum Chairman Dwan Garrison and her Curriculum Planning Committee as well as Susan McNutt for organizing morning snacks and lunch.