MISSION

We are the citizen scientists and Minnesota Master Naturalists who volunteer our time serving the public and contributing to citizen science and learning at Tamarac National Wildlife Refuge.  Our main goals are to educate, inform, assist, and guide people in maximizing their experiences and enjoyment of nature at the refuge.   

We also strive to educate people on the mission and purpose of the Tamarac National Wildlife Refuge through environmental education, interpretive hikes and activities, citizen science projects such as Project Noah, and other programs.

Programs in which we are involved include:

• Environmental Education
• Project Noah Citizen Science Project 
• Audubon Annual Christmas Bird Count
• AIS Education and Boat Checks
• Roving Naturalist Program
• Minnesota Master Naturalist Training Course(s)
• Interpretive Activities on the Refuge 
• Working with Youth Groups (Home Schools, Scouting)

What is a Naturalist?

A naturalist is a person who educates the public about the history, fauna, and flora, while striving to increase their appreciation of the wonders in the natural environment.  They normally enlighten people using a variety of techniques, including tours of refuges and forest areas, demonstrations in nature centers, photography, videos, and lectures.  

To make the programs interesting for both children and adults, a naturalist commonly incorporates different techniques into the presentation.   They will share iinteresting scientific and historical facts as they lead groups along trails and pathways.  Indoors, they typically will use photos and videos of animals, fish, reptiles in their natural habitat along with static displays of plants that the visitor can closely examine.

Naturalists live to bring to life the wonders of nature for their fellow human beings.