A Nature Interpreter's Blog @cevenvs3000w25 - Tumblr Blog

Disclaimer

This blog was created for Chelsea Vieira (ENVS*3000), University of Guelph.

The opinions expressed here represent my own and not those of the University of Guelph.

The University of Guelph is not responsible for the accuracy of any of the information supplied by this blog.

Nature's Eternal Dance: The Magic of Cycles and Surprises

There’s something deeply magical about nature that never fails to amaze me - it's a combination of timeless continuity and thrilling unpredictability. Nature is always moving, shifting, and transforming, without any real beginning or end. The seasons come and go, the tides ebb and flow, the trees shed their leaves and grow them again, and all of this unfolds in cycles that are as ancient as the Earth itself. There’s a comfort in knowing that these patterns, these rhythms of life, will continue long after humankind has come and gone. Nature is ever-knowing, ever-wise, holding the stories of time within its landscapes. And yet, it is not stagnant. It is constantly changing, growing, and adapting, full of surprises at every turn.

A recent winter sunrise photo that I took a few days ago. It’s this beautiful duality that makes nature so endlessly fascinating. On one hand, it is ancient, carrying the echoes of history in the wind, the soil, and the rocks. On the other hand, it is always fresh, constantly evolving, and filled with unexpected discoveries. You can walk into any natural space, at any time, and something will capture your attention. It could be the first bloom of spring, breaking through the cold earth, or the delicate dusting of snow that softens the harshness of winter. It could be the rustling of leaves as a squirrel dashes from tree to tree, or the moment a deer silently slips into the underbrush, barely making a sound. Every time you step outside, the world is offering something new to explore.

This photo was taken on the same morning but facing away from the sunrise. This time of year, when the world around me is slowly waking from its winter slumber, is especially thrilling. The birds are singing their morning chorus once again, and with each passing day, new species return, filling the air with life. Today, I spotted the Killdeer, an unmistakable sound that marks the return of yet another traveler. Nature’s resilience and ability to surprise us is what makes it so exhilarating. It teaches us lessons in patience, humility, and wonder. The rhythms, the unexpected, and the beauty of the natural world remind us that we are all a part of something much larger than ourselves - something deeply connected to the past, present, and future. It is ever-present, and it holds the potential to bring great meaning to our lives if we only take the time to step into it and listen

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Unit 7: Nature Interpretation through Music

To begin this week's blog on Nature Interpretation through music, I want to bring up this quote from the course content.

“It is said that every known human culture has music. Music has been defined as patterns of sound varying in pitch and time produced for emotional, social, cultural, and cognitive purposes. Is music-making in humans defined by our genes? Do other species show musical language and expression? If they do, what kinds of behavior invoke musicmaking in these animals? Is there evidence in the animal kingdom for the ability to create and recreate a musical language with established musical sounds? How are musical sounds used to communicate within and between species? Do musical sounds in nature reveal a profound bond between all living things?” Gray, P. Krause, B. Atema, J., Payne, R., Krumhansl, C. & Baptista, L. (2001). The Music of Nature and the Nature of Music. Science. 291. 52-54.

I find it so interesting how music can be found in nature!

Birds singing to attract mates

Croaking frog to find mates and defend territories

The peaceful sounds of water

Buzzing of bees

There is something so relaxing, peaceful, and even nostalgic about listening to all of the sounds of nature. And not just for humans! All kinds of animals interact with music in their day to day lives. Videos have been surfacing online of cows being intrigued and gathering to listen to music.

An article by Ciborowaska et al. (2021), The Effect of Music on Livestock: Cattle, Poultry and Pigs, explains how music therapy, popular amongst humans, is being used for farm animals as a form of enrichment and a way to reduce stress, and increase animal production as a result.

Music in nature is everywhere. It's in the rhythmic crashing of waves, the whispering leaves in the wind. These sounds are more than just background noise, they are melodies created by the environment, shaping the way we experience nature,

Music is also deeply connected to nature in the way humans have incorporated natural sounds into songs. Indigenous cultures often use elements of nature in their music, from the sounds of water to the calls of animals, reflecting a deep connection to the land and its rhythms (National Arts Centre, n.d.). Even in Western music, sounds of nature are used as instruments such as Blackbird by the Beatles, which features bird tweeting sounds.

The connection between music and nature is also deeply personal. Certain songs can immediately transport us to a specific time and place, tied to the landscapes and moments where we first heard them. For me, My Sweet Lord by George Harrison brings back memories of summer at my old cottage. My dad used to play it while we sat by the lake. The song’s gentle, flowing rhythm blended perfectly with the peaceful surroundings, making it feel like the soundtrack to my summers. Even now, whenever I hear it, I can imagine the scene so vividly.

This is something I’m sure many people can relate to, and it reinforces how music is not just something we hear, but something we feel and something that can connect us deeper into our surroundings. Music could be a useful tool in nature interpretation to help people connect with nature.

What songs take you back to a special place in nature? Can you think of any other songs which feature nature sounds?

Ciborowska P, Michalczuk M, Bień D. (2021) The Effect of Music on Livestock: Cattle, Poultry and Pigs. Animals (Basel), 11(12). https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8698046/

National Arts Centre. (n.d.) Nitohta: Listen to Earthsounds. Accessed on February 25, 2025, from https://nac-cna.ca/en/artsalive/resource/nitohta-listen-to-earthsounds/module/35853#:~:text=Murray%20Schafer-,Indigenous%20music,repeated%20over%20lengthy%20chant%20phrases.

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Blog 7: Music and Nature

As I’ve gotten older, I’ve watched technology advance through social media, photography, and videography, become more accessible and sophisticated each year. But music has been around for decades. Our ancestors told stories through song and dance, and music has continued to evolve so that today, we can play songs with just a tap of our fingers on a phone. Yet music is still very much a way of telling stories, whether through love songs or even diss tracks.

In nature, there is a natural music that has always been present, and I’ve noticed this since I was a kid. From birds chirping to trees howling in the wind, there’s a calming rhythm that comes from being outside in the natural world. That’s how I see music in nature. Here in Ontario, we have many animals that “sing,” like the chirp of a robin or the howls of coyotes. That’s why whenever I walk or hike outside, I prefer to listen to these sounds instead of plugging in and playing music on my phone. There’s something so calming about the sound of water running in a stream or my feet crunching over fresh snowfall. It’s a grounding and peaceful experience that helps me disconnect from the online world and reconnect with the earth. These sounds, much like modern-day music, tell a story. When I think about the hikes or adventures I’ve taken in nature, I often remember certain sounds, like birds chirping or the wind in the trees. Like when I hear birds chirping, it takes me back to spring mornings waking up for elementary school and hearing them in my backyard. This connection is like the way a catchy song can get stuck in your head or how hearing an old song can bring back memories from years ago.

I am interested to hear if other people also remember sounds in nature from their childhood?

When I think about nature in music, I consider how certain songs or genres make me feel, much like the emotions I experience in nature. As I mentioned earlier, being in nature makes me feel peaceful, grounded, and relaxed. Living in Ontario, it can be difficult to find the same outdoor spaced that I enjoyed in Banff. There aren’t as many hikes and waterfalls nearby, and certainly no mountains in Guelph. So, I’ve found a way to replicate the feelings that nature brings me through music. An artist who comes to mind is Noah Kahan, who often sings about nature and adventure. His lyrics resonate with me, and his music gives me the same sense of peace and freedom I felt when I was on top of a mountain, so relaxed and at peace, but at the same time so powerful and free. His songs evoke powerful emotions that, at one point, I thought could only be found in nature. That’s how I see nature in music; as a reflection of the feelings, emotions, and memories that both nature and music can bring to life.

One song that stands out to me is “Paul Revere” by Noah Kahan. It was released while I was living in Banff, and it speaks about moving away from home and adjusting to life in a new place, while also acknowledging that its ok to look back and long for home. I remember listening to this song and right away connecting to the sounds of the music, then once I got to know the lyrics I connected with it even more.

It reminds me of my time in Banff and how I often felt homesick and missed my family. During those moments of feeling out of place, it was nature and music that helped me through. Hiking and music were two constants that grounded me and made me feel like I was exactly where I needed to be. The calming sounds of nature always kept me grounded, and this song was the first time I truly felt those same emotions while doing something other than hiking. When I listen to “Paul Revere,” I can picture the mountains, trees, and animals of Banff, and it takes me right back to those feelings of when I lived there, surrounded by nature constantly.

I'm curious if anyone else has a similar connection to a song like this?

Here is a link to the song. I hope you can listen and find your own way to connect!

Hope you enjoy, Cayla

Tuning Into Nature: How the World Around Us Sings

Music is everywhere in nature, woven into the very fabric of our environment. From the soft hum of wind moving through trees to the melodic calls of birds, nature is a symphony that never stops playing. Songbirds fill the air with sweet melodies, while crickets create rhythmic patterns at dusk, and the crackling of frost in winter produces a sound that is both eerie and beautiful. These are just a few examples, and they only scratch the surface of what we can hear. Beyond what is audible to the human ear, nature is constantly communicating through vibrations and movements, from the rustle of leaves to the gentle flow of water. There’s no moment of silence in nature - even when we don’t hear it, the world is still singing in its own way.

But where is nature in music? Nature's influence is often the inspiration behind many musical compositions, whether through direct sounds or through the emotional or physical responses they evoke. While not every piece of music is built from the sounds of the natural world (as musician Ben Mirin has done through his wildlife DJing), the magic of the outdoors often inspires musicians to create. Nature provides a rich palette for creativity, with its vast array of sounds, colors, and textures. Musicians, like other artists, are driven by inspiration, and there’s something about being in the wilderness or in green spaces that allows for deep emotional connection and creative flow. It's here that the natural world offers its music, and in turn, humans respond with their own creations.

The idea that music is all around us aligns with how nature functions. Just like a choir, the world’s sounds come together, with each element contributing its part. The hum of bees, the sound of a babbling brook, the rustling of a distant storm - it’s all part of a greater harmony that can be felt, even if not always heard. And like the way the birdsong communicates hidden meanings, there are layers within all music, whether natural or man-made. Music communicates beyond words, resonating with our emotions, memories, and experiences. There’s a depth to sound that invites connection and understanding, and, as Nature Interpreters, it’s our role to bring attention to these layers - helping others tune into the deeper messages of the world around them.

I was recently moved by the discovery of how Black-capped Chickadees communicate. Their familiar "Chickadee dee dee" call has a specific function: the number of "dees" indicates the level of threat approaching the flock. It’s a fascinating example of how much more is happening in nature than what we might immediately perceive. Just like music, there’s an underlying message in every sound, even if we don’t always hear or understand it. Whether in the song of a bird or the rhythm of a piece of music, there’s always more beneath the surface, and we can choose to listen more deeply to hear it.

A song that takes me back to a natural landscape is "Flying" by Garth Stevenson. The first time I heard it was in a yoga class, during savasana, a time where you lay to rest. This song captivated me in that moment, taking me to a place that doesn’t necessarily have a name. However, what washed over me was a sense of oneness within all of it – feeling integrally a part of the world around me. Bringing me to places like the vast plains in the Prairies, or to the deep woods of Algonquin Park. Now, whenever I hear this song, I am reminded of this sentiment. No matter where I am, there is a place for me in the choir of our highly vocal and audible world.

Music, like nature, is a reflection of the world around us - and when we open ourselves to its messages, we may find that both nature and music are always inviting us to listen.

More Than Artifacts: How Interpretation Breathes Life Into History

This blog post is intended to unpack this quote: "There is no peculiar merit in ancient things, but there is merit in integrity, and integrity entails the keeping together of the parts of any whole, and if these parts are scattered throughout time, then the maintenance of integrity entails a knowledge, a memory, of ancient things. …. To think, feel or act as though the past is done with, is equivalent to believing that a railway station through which our train has just passed, only existed for as long as our train was in it" (Beck et al., 2018).

This quote emphasizes that the value of history isn’t tied to its age, but to the integrity with which it is preserved – whether literally or figuratively. The preservation of what we call "ancient" matters only as much as the stories that uphold these treasures, the people who tell them, and the places and landscapes woven throughout.

In this context, integrity refers to the wholeness or interconnectedness of something, requiring an understanding of how its parts fit together over time. If we forget or disregard the past, we lose that connection, and we disrupt the integrity of the present.

As the textbook notes, “Interpretation breathes life and meaning into past events, architecture, and artifacts,” (Beck et al., 2018) enriching our capacity to understand what is before us. It allows us to connect more deeply with the experiences and history we encounter.

This brings to mind tragic events throughout time – the Holocaust, the sinking of the Titanic, for example. If we were to walk through a museum, observing the artifacts left behind, they would not necessarily move us in the same way. It is the personal stories, the context provided by interpreters, that give these objects true resonance.

Things themselves hold only so much value. It is we, as living, breathing individuals, who give true meaning to ancient things. The diversity of voices and perspectives that can attest to or share these histories deepens our connection, extending the experience into a realm of profound ancestral connection.

Similar to how historian Robert Sutton approaches historical interpretation in the United States National Parks, offering insight into the different lenses of people who contributed to history around a given artifact enriches our understanding. This contextual approach provides listeners with a starting point to orient themselves to the history they are learning about.

The tapestry created by piecing together all that makes ancient things valuable is strengthened by different ways of seeing and understanding history. Through the voices of interpreters, whether past or present, history becomes more than just facts – it becomes a living, breathing story that we are all a part of.

As David McCullough writes, “We need the past for our sense of who we are” (Beck et al., 2018). History shapes our everyday lives, even if we don’t always realize it. This brings to mind the concept of “ancestral trauma,” a term often used today to describe the immense hardships faced by Indigenous peoples. These experiences and their shared history, contribute to who Indigenous peoples of Canada are today, and the inequities they continue to face.

The comparison to a railway station highlights that the station does not cease to exist once the train has passed through. Just because we move forward doesn’t mean the past is no longer relevant. In order to maintain a holistic understanding of the present, we must recognize and remember the past as part of a continuous, ever-evolving journey. This mindset allows us to appreciate and learn from history, rather than treating it as something separate and disconnected from our current reality. By doing so, we can use our history to inform and inspire us to live in ways that carry forward the teachings of the past. As interpreters, it may be our responsibility to help others see how understanding history can shape the future. Beck, L., Cable, T. T., & Knudson, D. M. (2018). Interpreting cultural and natural heritage for a better world. Sagamore Publishing.

The Power of Books and Conversations: My Journey with an Environmental Book Club

Early in my employment with my local Conservation Authority, I saw an opportunity to connect with the adults in our community. While much of our programming was youth-focused, I recognized that engaging the broader community was just as important for fostering a culture of environmental stewardship. And so, I started an Environmental Book Club. The idea was simple: to create a space for like-minded individuals to come together, discuss environmental topics, and build meaningful connections - all through the power of books.

Over time, the book club grew into something more than I ever expected. We started gathering outside at the Arboretum on warm days, surrounded by nature, with the breeze in our hair and the sun warming our faces. On colder days, we moved inside, curling up with cups of tea, sharing thoughts and ideas in a cozy, welcoming atmosphere. Each meeting became an opportunity to deepen our connections, not only with each other but also with the natural world we are working to protect.

Most recently, we came together to discuss Fire Weather by John Valliant. I highly recommend this book to anyone who hasn’t read it - it’s a sobering, eye-opening exploration of wildfires and the increasingly volatile climate that fuels them. We gathered on a particularly chilly afternoon, and the conversation that followed was ironically fiery - pun intended! The book ignited a heated discussion among us all, with members engaged in passionate debates and sharing their thoughts on how we’ve arrived at this point in our climate crisis. It was the kind of conversation that, while sobering, was also uplifting, as we started to generate ideas for positive change and actions we can take, both individually and collectively.

One of the most valuable aspects of these book club discussions is the opportunity to engage in meaningful dialogue about our current climate situation. Fire Weather certainly painted a bleak picture, but it also encouraged us to reflect on the role each of us plays in shaping the future. This kind of conversation, where we can air our frustrations and fears, is so important. We don’t often have a safe space to express those feelings, especially when it comes to the overwhelming issues of climate change. Yet, by the end of the discussion, we left feeling hopeful, challenged to spark climate conversations in spaces that might otherwise remain silent. It was a reminder that, though the problems may feel insurmountable, we all have the power to inspire change, even in small ways.

As I think ahead to next month, I’m excited to see how this experience continues to evolve for all of us. Facilitating this book club has had its highs and lows. At times, turnout has been unpredictable, and not every discussion has been as fulfilling as I’d hoped. But the moments when the conversation flows, when everyone is engaged and invested, have made it all worthwhile. It’s these moments that remind me why I started this book club in the first place: to create a safe space for people to come together, share ideas, and feel empowered to make a difference.

For anyone interested in starting something similar in their own community, I would highly recommend it. You’d be surprised by who you meet and how these conversations can bring people together.

This month, we’re reading The Serviceberry by Robin Wall Kimmerer - thankfully a bit more uplifting than our last selection! I’m particularly excited because I’m a huge fan of her writing. This book focuses on themes of abundance and reciprocity in the natural world, which seems like a perfect follow-up to our last, more sobering read. I can’t wait to dive into the pages and see where the conversation takes us next.

If there’s one thing I’ve learned from this experience, it’s that fostering dialogue about the environment, no matter the medium, is always worthwhile. Whether it’s in a book club, at a dinner table, or during a walk through the woods, these conversations are vital in sparking the change we need to see in the world.

Here are some of the titles we've explored together. Thanks to the Jane Goodall Institute's A.P.E. Fund, we were able to donate additional copies of these books to our local library.

The Gift of Beauty

The role of interpreting nature through art is not one of dictating meaning, but rather one of creating an opportunity for personal reflection and connection. Though I am not an artist – at least not in the traditional sense – the idea of interpreting nature through art isn’t daunting or overwhelming. As the textbook aptly reminds us, “Interpretation is a visitor experience” (Beck et al., 2018). While interpreters may offer educational insights, cultural context, or even personal reflections, the actual act of interpretation is carried out in the mind of the individual experiencing the work. The interpreter’s role, then, is to offer a space in which visitors can engage with nature, art, and beauty in their own way. This process is not about imposing a fixed narrative, but about fostering a relationship between the viewer and the natural world through the lens of artistic expression.

Nature, as it appears in art, can be a profound gift that invites diverse interpretations and personal transformation. Each person brings their own experiences, perspectives, and emotional states to the encounter. As interpreters, we create a container - an environment conducive to self-reflection and discovery. Just as one might stand before a painting or a landscape and feel a stirring of the soul, an interpreter’s role is to evoke and invite such responses. We offer the tools, the context, and the invitation, but it is ultimately up to the individual to engage with the beauty in a way that resonates with them.

When it comes to interpreting the gift of beauty in nature, we can provide individuals with educational information and insights into the cultural and historical significance of the natural world. For instance, we might share the scientific processes behind a natural phenomenon or offer a glimpse into how various cultures have viewed certain landscapes or the flora and fauna that live there. However, these facts and figures are merely part of the story. They may inform and enrich the experience, but the true interpretation is far more personal and subjective. In a way, each piece of art carries with it an unwritten story, one with endless chapters, as individuals throughout history add their own interpretations to it.

As an interpreter, one of the most important responsibilities we have is to reinforce the natural beauty that exists all around us - also captured through art - without enforcing a singular way of seeing or understanding. The “gift of beauty,” as the textbook describes it, is not simply to be admired from a distance; it is to be felt, experienced, and sensed in ways that may transcend words and facts. Interpretation, in this sense, should encourage visitors to become attuned to the beauty surrounding them, feel it in their bones, and carry that sense of wonder with them long after they leave the space.

In this context, the goal is not to provide definitive answers, but to inspire questions - about the natural world, about art, about the emotional and spiritual responses this type of beauty evokes. It is to foster a sense of awe and curiosity, to awaken the sense that beauty is not just a visual experience, but something that connects us to deeper truths about life, our planet, and ourselves. As the textbook suggests, “interpretation should instill in people the ability, and the desire to sense the beauty in their surroundings - to provide spiritual uplift and to encourage resource preservation” (Beck et al., 2018). This spiritual uplift does not come from being told what to think or feel, but from creating an environment where individuals can feel the pull of nature’s beauty on their own terms.

At the end of the day, the interpreter’s role is less about offering a fixed interpretation and more about offering an invitation - an invitation to step into a space where each person can connect with nature and beauty in a unique and personal way. By creating that space, we encourage visitors to translate the experience into something meaningful to them. The act of interpretation is not about dictating how one should see the world, but about providing the opportunity to engage with it deeply, meaningfully, and authentically. The beauty of nature, through art and interpretation, becomes something that is both universal and deeply individual - an ongoing dialogue between the visitor and the natural world, mediated by the interpreter’s role as guide, not author.

Some people look despairingly outside in winter, longing for warmer sunny days, but when I look out at a world blanketed in white, it reminds me to go inward, slow down, and think more deeply. To me this is a peaceful time of year - but a reminder that everyone interprets landscapes differently.

Beck, L., Cable, T. T., & Knudson, D. M. (2018). Interpreting cultural and natural heritage for a better world. Sagamore Publishing.

The Role of Privilege in Nature Interpretation

Privilege is a concept that can be difficult to fully grasp, as it often operates in the background of many aspects of our lives, quietly shaping our experiences in ways that often go unnoticed by those who benefit from it. It is an unearned advantage afforded to certain groups based on factors like race, class, gender, physical ability, or even historical context. In essence, privilege manifests as the systems and advantages that make life easier for some people, while others, often through no fault of their own, face barriers that others do not. These barriers can be physical, financial, social, or emotional, and they can create tangible feelings of exclusion, powerlessness, or frustration for those who are disadvantaged.

In the context of nature interpretation, privilege plays a significant and often unspoken role. Nature interpretation refers to the process of helping people connect with the natural world through educational programming, guided hikes, and other means. However, for many individuals, engaging with nature can be riddled with obstacles - barriers that are compounded by privilege.

One of the most common ways that privilege manifests in nature interpretation is through physical limitations. Many outdoor programs or interpretive experiences are designed with a particular demographic in mind, often those who are able-bodied. Trails might be inaccessible to those with mobility issues, or programs may be held in locations that require physical stamina or health that some people simply do not possess. This exclusion isn’t intentional, but it is often the result of a lack of awareness or consideration about the varying needs of different people. For those who cannot participate, the unfairness of the situation can feel tangible, even though it may go unnoticed by those who can easily access nature.

Financial privilege also plays a significant role in nature interpretation. Access to outdoor spaces or interpretive programs often comes with a cost, whether that’s the price of admission, travel expenses, or gear required to participate. These financial barriers can exclude people from low-income backgrounds, creating a divide where only those with the financial means are able to enjoy or learn from nature experiences. This economic divide is further compounded by the historical and systemic inequities that place certain communities at a disadvantage when it comes to wealth and opportunity.

Another layer of privilege in nature interpretation can be psychological and emotional, particularly when considering mental health and ancestral trauma. For individuals who have faced historical injustice, such as those in marginalized racial or indigenous communities, the experience of nature may evoke feelings of alienation or discomfort. The historical context of colonization, displacement, and environmental degradation can create a mental and emotional disconnect from nature for these groups, making the idea of connecting with the land a difficult or even painful experience. In this sense, privilege is not just physical or financial; it can also be the privilege of feeling safe, welcome, and at ease in natural spaces - something that many people have never had the luxury to feel.

Given all these factors, nature interpreters must develop an understanding of the various privileges and barriers that shape people’s access to and experience of the natural world. A seasoned nature interpreter must be adaptable, ready to pivot programming to meet the diverse needs of their audiences. This means considering physical accessibility, financial constraints, and emotional or psychological barriers. Programs may need to be altered on the fly to accommodate different needs, whether that’s adjusting for a specific physical limitation or offering alternative experiences for those with mental or emotional challenges related to their connection to the land.

Effective nature interpretation also involves actively reaching out to groups who have historically been excluded from or underrepresented in outdoor spaces. This means not only offering targeted programming for communities facing disadvantages but also ensuring that these groups feel seen, valued, and understood in interpretive contexts. By consciously working to dismantle the barriers created by privilege, nature interpreters can create a more inclusive, equitable, and welcoming experience for all individuals, no matter their background or situation.

All this to say - privilege in nature interpretation is not just an abstract concept - it’s something that is deeply felt by those who are unincluded, and it’s up to us as interpreters to recognize when it comes up and do whatever we can to overcome these barriers. By understanding and addressing the various forms of privilege, nature interpreters can begin to create spaces that wholeheartedly welcome everyone.

My Role as an Interpreter

In envisioning my ideal role as an environmental interpreter, I don't see it as fitting neatly into a specific career or job description, but rather as a dynamic, ever-evolving path that adapts alongside my own personal growth and the shifting state of the world around me. I believe this role will naturally unfold over time, influenced by my ongoing experiences, the changing landscapes, the communities I engage with, and the environmental challenges that arise. It will be shaped by a deep commitment to fostering a meaningful connection between people and nature, especially as we face growing concerns over climate change, habitat and biodiversity loss, and the need for living in a way that’s regenerative - not only for ourselves - but for our planet.

At its core, my role as an environmental interpreter would revolve around helping individuals reconnect with the natural world in a way that feels deeply personal, wholesome, and transformative. The essence of this connection is grounded in a sense of ownership and stewardship, not just for the land itself, but for all the living beings - flora, fauna, fungi, and everything in between - that call it home. I imagine guiding people to understand the intricate web of relationships in ecosystems, helping them see the beauty and importance of even the smallest creatures and plants, and inspiring them to protect what they value.

Given the evolving nature of both the world and my career, the location for this role could vary widely, taking shape wherever there's a need to engage communities in environmental education. It might be in national parks, forests, or wildlife reserves, or it could be in urban areas, helping city dwellers reconnect with local green spaces or rooftop gardens. It could also involve working with schools or communities that may not traditionally have access to nature, seeking to make the outdoors more accessible for those who might otherwise feel disconnected from it.

Skills needed for this role would range from practical knowledge of ecology and environmental science to emotional intelligence and communication skills. An understanding of diverse ecosystems and the ability to articulate their complexities in an accessible way would be essential. I would need to stay informed about current environmental issues and best practices for conservation, as well as have a clear understanding of how climate change impacts both local and global landscapes. But perhaps just as important as these technical skills, is the ability to inspire passion in others. I’ve found that passion, more than any specific set of facts or figures, can be the catalyst that ignites a deeper connection with the natural world. Passion is contagious; when people feel the energy of someone deeply invested in something, they are more likely to feel that same spark.

Furthermore, my ideal role would demand that I maintain a clear sense of my own values, desires, and perspectives so that I can communicate authentically and build trust with those I interact with. People are more likely to engage with and learn from someone they perceive as genuine and confident in their mission. As I grow into this role, I would need to be adaptable, empathetic, and open to new approaches, as I recognize that every person, community, and landscape is unique.

Ultimately, my goal would not just be to share information about nature but to help people feel as though they are a part of it. Through fostering a sense of belonging, understanding, and responsibility, I would aim to empower individuals to become active stewards of the environment, ensuring that future generations can experience and protect the natural world as we do today. This is how I envision my ideal role as an environmental interpreter - one that is constantly evolving but always rooted in the fundamental mission of connecting people to the land and all others we share our landscapes with.

I’m grateful to now work for my local Conservation Authority, where I am in a role that is constantly unfolding to meet the needs of my community and a varying array of conservation initiatives. This position allows me to engage with environmental issues on the ground level, directly impacting the well-being of local ecosystems and fostering a deeper connection between residents and the natural world. One example of this has been the creation of a Turtle Stewardship Program, designed to support two of our local at-risk species. This project has been incredibly rewarding for me, as it not only contributes to the protection of these vulnerable creatures but has also proven to be a gateway for others to embed stewardship into their own lives. It’s true what they say - turtles really are the poster child for conservation, as they capture people’s hearts and spark a sense of responsibility for protecting our natural heritage. I look forward to seeing how my current role as an interpreter evolves over time. The ever-changing nature of this work keeps me humble and makes each day exciting, as new opportunities arise to engage with the community, adapt to emerging conservation needs, and inspire others to be stewards of the land.

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Blog #1 My Relationship with Nature

When I think about my relationship with nature, I think about how it grounds me and reminds to live in the present moment. Nature provides me with a source of adventure, healing, and strength for me. It’s where I go to think, exercise, and relax when the world feels overwhelming. I spend time outdoors almost every day, whether its walking to campus, watching the sunset, or going for a run or hike. When I was a child my parents introduced me to nature through family vacations, daily walks with our dog, and afternoons spent in our backyard pool. Every year we use to go camping in Northern Ontario, where I enjoyed nature walks and learning about the local plants and animals. But back then, I didn’t fully appreciate nature the way I do now.

In 2022, I moved to Banff Alberta, and that’s when my relationship with nature truly deepened. I spent nearly two years in Banff, hiking, biking, swimming, and exploring the mountains and forests daily. I worked a landscaping job, working outside in the fresh mountain air for hours every single day. When I wasn’t working, I spent all my spare time outside hiking in the summer and snowboarding in the winter. It was eye-opening to experience nature in such a different setting, surrounded by towering mountains and a diverse ecosystem. I’ll never forget the first day I arrived in Banff. My supervisor was showing me the breathtaking landscape and listed the names of some of the massive mountains surrounding us. I told him “I’m going to climb them all.” Today, I am proud to say I’ve climbed over 30 mountains during my time there. Hiking became a way for me to connect with nature and gain a deeper appreciation for the world around me.

This is a picture of me on the top of Tent Ridge Peak in Kananaskis, Alberta. This was the first mountain I summited and ended up being my favourite hike. I will never forget the feeling of standing thousands of feet above the ground, looking down at mountain ranges and landscapes below. This moment put into perspective how small we are in this massive world. I’ve always struggled with social anxiety, but that first hike (and all the others that followed) truly shifted my perspective on life. When I feel overwhelmed, I put myself back on the summit and remember how tiny my issues are in the grand scheme of things. That moment was truly transformative for me, and it still gives me chills when I think about it today. I realized that I find peace, happiness, and my truest sense of confidence when I’m in nature.

This photo is from the summit of a 42km hike I completed on one of my last days living in Banff. Looking back, I never would have thought I could accomplish something like that. Before, mountains were just images I saw on postcards and in movies. I never imagined I could stand on top of one, let alone multiple mountain peaks.

My parents played a crucial role in giving me a sense of place and sparking my love for nature. All the camping trips, walks, and family vacations we took around the world helped me understand that nature wasn’t just something I experienced. It was a place that shaped who I am today. They taught me that every place has its own beauty and lessons that we can learn. Because of them I have always had a sense of adventure and a desire to explore and connect with the world around me. I am so grateful that they raised me to appreciate the outdoors, especially in a time where technology was evolving so heavily, and many kids spent more time inside on devices then they did in nature.

My Relationship with Nature

My relationship with nature has always been an intrinsic part of who I am, beginning from a young age when I felt an undeniable gravitational pull towards the outdoors. As a child, I was constantly outside, exploring whatever natural spaces I lived near to (I moved around a lot, so there were constantly new places to uncover). The natural world offered me a sense of belonging and peace that was unmatched by anything else in my life. This relationship was not something I consciously cultivated; rather, it was a deep, intuitive connection, as if nature was a part of me, and I was part of it.

As I grew older, like many people, I went through a phase of forgetting that connection. Society's demands, the pressures of school, and the distractions of adolescence pushed me further away from nature. I moved into more structured environments, where nature became something "out there," rather than something that was integrated into my everyday life. However, even during these years, I could feel a quiet yearning inside me - a longing to return to that familiar sense of peace and belonging that nature had always given me. This phase of forgetting was, in hindsight, a necessary part of my journey.

As I matured, I began to experience what I would call a "remembering." It's almost as if there is an ancestral knowledge within me that calls me back to the natural world, to the rhythms of the land, and to the interconnectedness that my ancestors once lived in harmony with. This reconnection was not something I could force or even plan; it was something that unfolded naturally as I sought deeper meaning in my life. I realized that my ancestors, as well as many cultures throughout history, were far more interconnected with nature than modern society often acknowledges. They relied on the landscape not just for resources like food, medicine, and materials, but as a living, breathing partner in their survival and well-being. This was not an abstract concept to me; it was something I felt deeply in my bones.

One of the pivotal steps in this journey of remembering was when I became a Herbalist. Studying plants and learning their names was not just an academic pursuit for me - it was an act of rekindling my relationship with the world around me. By learning the language of plants, I was able to move beyond seeing a "wall of green" to truly understanding the personalities and roles of each plant in the ecosystem. This understanding, combined with an increasing awareness of the ways in which humans have historically interacted with the land, helped me see the natural world as a community of beings - each with its own wisdom and contributions to offer.

Today, I am fortunate enough to live on a homestead with my Australian Shepherd, Winnie, and continue my connection with nature every day. The homestead allows me to integrate my values and relationship with nature into my daily life, tending to the land, growing food, and learning more about the seasons and cycles around me. Living in this way brings me a sense of peace and fulfillment that is hard to put into words.

Professionally, I now work as an Environmental Educator with my local Conservation Authority, where I have the privilege of helping others reconnect with nature. Teaching children and adults about the importance of ecosystems, biodiversity, and conservation has only deepened my own relationship with the natural world. I am constantly reminded that our connection with nature is not something we have to "find" - it is an inherent part of who we are. Sometimes, it just takes a little guidance or a spark of inspiration to help others remember.

Ultimately, I believe we all have a close relationship with nature as children. However, as we grow older and are pulled into the complexities of modern life, we often forget that connection. My own journey of remembering, which led me to become a Herbalist and an Environmental Educator, has shown me that we are all capable of rekindling this ancient bond with the world around us. Nature, as a constant, nurturing presence, has the ability to offer us a profound sense of place and belonging - if only we are open to it.

The sense of place that I feel so deeply within me was not necessarily given to me by a single person, but rather, it is rooted in the collective history of humankind and our long-standing relationship with the natural world. This connection is ancient - woven into the fabric of our very being. From the earliest human societies, people lived in close harmony with the land, relying on the environment for sustenance, shelter, and medicine. This deep, ancestral bond with nature was passed down through generations, encoded in our biology, culture, and consciousness. While I cannot point to a specific individual who "offered" me this sense of place, I feel that the yearning to return to nature is a part of who we all are - a collective memory of our species’ connection to the earth. It is this shared history that calls to me, urging me to remember and reconnect with the rhythms of the land, the cycles of growth and decay, and the wisdom embedded in the natural world. In this way, the sense of place I feel is not just personal, but a rediscovery of something universal, an innate calling that has always been there, waiting to be reawakened.

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