The Art of Interpretation

6:00-7:00 pm – Chapter Meeting with Refreshments and Book Raffle Drawing

7:00-7:30 pm – Program: Answering the Question “So what?” to Create Those “A-ha!” Moments:  The Art of Interpretation

(David Owens, Lake Mineral Wells State Park)  

Many Texas Master Naturalists create and implement interpretive programs to address natural resource education and conservation objectives.  Nature interpretation is both a science and an art, and a calling for the rare few.  Whether he’s helping children and their parents understand how to keep young people safe in natural areas, leading hikers on all fours through undeveloped backwoods, or portraying a cowboy poet around a campfire, David Owens is always teaching.  As the Assistant Superintendent of Lake Mineral Wells State Park, he is responsible for the park’s rich and varied interpretive program.  In this presentation, David will address the art of interpretation: teaching principles and techniques you can use to help others form an emotional and intellectual connection to your subject.  These proven methods–used by professionals in parks, museums, zoos, and nature centers–can also be used by Master Naturalist volunteers, to inspire and equip others to help protect natural resources.  David Owens holds a BS from Howard Payne University and has been a part of Texas Parks and Wildlife Department for over 25 years.