During 2022, the Texas Master Naturalist™, Sabine-Neches Chapter has been running full steam ahead with nature awareness and education, specifically targeted to youth in southeast Texas. With the formation of the Public Outreach committee chaired by Nancy Angell, Master Naturalists have participated in several interactive events since March. Events bring youth and Master Naturalists together to learn about native species of bees, birds, plants and ecosystems. Teams of Master Naturalists have volunteered to lead activities at the YMCA of Southeast Texas in Port Arthur and at YMCA events in Nederland and Orange. Master Naturalists have led bird walks at Village Creek State Park and supported the Beaumont Parks and Recreation Summer Camp and “Read and Feed” programs. Master Naturalists volunteered routinely throughout the Spring to assist more than 1000 children who participated in the Big Thicket Association’s educational programs at Collier’s Ferry Park in Beaumont.
More events are planned for this summer, including participation in the Beaumont Summer Reading Program at the Cattail Marsh on July 25th. Texas Master Naturalist members are also collaborating with Texas A & M AgriLife Extension Service Office in Orange County for the Seventh Annual Michael Hoke Memorial Outdoor Awareness Day for Kids at Claiborne Park on August 4, 2022. Volunteers enjoy the opportunity to share their knowledge and enthusiasm about our natural world with young people and thrive on the energy and excitement of the young learners.
If you would like to learn more about the Texas Master Naturalist Sabine-Neches Chapter, check us out online at www.txmn.org/sabine/ or on Facebook, Sabine Neches Chapter, Texas Master Naturalist, or direct questions to [email protected]