Nature Interpretation

A blog to discuss nature interpretation for ENVS3000!

[czenvs3000f23]

Disclaimer

This blog was created for ENVS3000, at the 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.

[melanieenvs3000f23]

FINAL BLOG: Nurturing a Personal Ethic: My Journey as a Nature Interpreter

As I embark upon the transformative odyssey of becoming a nature interpreter, I am compelled to delve into the profound depths of self-discovery, pondering the intricate ethical framework that intricately shapes my engagement with the natural world. This voyage extends far beyond a mere quest for knowledge; it is a nuanced exploration, a deliberate and introspective endeavor to cultivate not just an understanding but a profound and intrinsic respect for nature. This reflective pilgrimage is driven by a synthesis of deeply ingrained beliefs, a keen awareness of responsibilities, and a thoughtful selection of approaches that collectively mold the foundation of my evolving personal ethic as I traverse the realms of nature interpretation.

Beliefs that Ground Me:

At the epicenter of my nature interpretation ethic lies a profound belief in the intricate interconnectedness that binds all living things. Nature, rather than a passive canvas upon which human existence unfolds, reveals itself as a dynamic and pulsating tapestry of relationships, where every organism, no matter its size, assumes a crucial role. I envision myself not merely as an observer but as an indispensable element woven into this complex system, entrusted with the solemn responsibility of preservation and stewardship.

Moreover, my conviction extends to the transformative potential inherent in cultivating awe and wonder for nature. This isn't merely an intellectual exercise; it's a visceral experience that has the power to ignite a genuine and enduring desire for conservation. As I traverse the realms of nature interpretation, my goal is to forge connections between individuals and the natural world, fostering a deep-seated appreciation for its beauty and marvels. In this shared appreciation, I aspire to sow the seeds of a collective responsibility, where each person becomes a custodian, committed to the protection and sustenance of our planet's precious ecosystems.

Responsibilities that Guide Me:

In embracing the mantle of a nature interpreter, I find myself shouldering a weighty array of responsibilities that form the very bedrock of my journey. At the forefront of my role is the unwavering commitment to being a stalwart advocate for environmental education. This duty transcends the mere imparting of knowledge; it is a sacred charge to disseminate information that is not only accurate but also accessible, weaving a narrative that unravels the intricate tapestry of ecosystems, biodiversity, and the profound impacts of human activities on our delicate environment.

Furthermore, my sense of responsibility extends into the realm of ethical and sustainable practices. Whether I am guiding an enchanted group through a nature walk or leading an interactive workshop, my aim is not solely to transmit facts but to instill the enduring principles of conservation and ecological mindfulness. It is in this immersive and participatory engagement that I aspire to nurture a sense of personal responsibility among those I have the privilege to engage with, fostering a collective commitment to become stewards of our planet.

Beyond the boundaries of education and awareness lies another pivotal responsibility — that of being a voice for the voiceless in nature. The silent struggles faced by numerous species and ecosystems due to human activities demand acknowledgment and advocacy. As a nature interpreter, I aspire to elevate these stories from the shadows, amplifying the narratives of endangered species and threatened habitats. This is not a mere recounting of ecological challenges; it is a call to action, a clarion call to awaken a sense of urgency and a shared commitment to conservation that transcends individual actions to become a collective force for positive change.

In embracing these multifaceted responsibilities, my journey as a nature interpreter takes on a purposeful hue. It becomes a tapestry woven with threads of education, ethical practice, and advocacy, each strand contributing to the larger narrative of preserving the delicate balance of our planet. As I navigate the intricate web of my duties, I am guided not only by a profound sense of responsibility but also by an unwavering belief that through education, ethical conduct, and advocacy, we can forge a sustainable future for generations yet to come.

Approaches Aligned with My Values:

The fabric of my journey as a nature interpreter is intricately woven with approaches that not only echo my values but also breathe life into my beliefs. At its core, I champion the promotion of experiential learning—an approach I hold dear. It is my steadfast belief that the most profound connections with nature are forged through immersion. To achieve this, I orchestrate guided nature walks, facilitate hands-on activities, and curate immersive experiences that invite individuals to not just observe but actively participate in the wonders of the natural world. Through these endeavors, my aspiration is to create indelible connections that endure beyond the immediate moment, fostering a profound and lasting bond between people and the environment.

Moreover, I advocate ardently for inclusivity in environmental education, considering it not merely a preference but an imperative. Nature interpretation, I firmly believe, should be an inclusive endeavor, accessible to everyone, irrespective of age, background, or socioeconomic status. Thus, I tailor my approaches with a deliberate focus on engaging diverse audiences. By doing so, I aim to dismantle barriers that may impede access to environmental awareness, making it a shared experience that transcends boundaries and resonates with a broad spectrum of individuals.

In this era defined by digital innovation, embracing technology is not just a choice but a strategic imperative in my approach. The digital age has bestowed upon us tools that can magnify the impact of environmental messages. I navigate this landscape with a conscious embrace of social media platforms, virtual reality, and a plethora of other innovative tools. Through these mediums, I endeavor to extend the reach of my environmental narratives, bridging the gap for those who may not have immediate access to the wonders of nature. In leveraging technology, my aim is not only to disseminate information but also to inspire a sense of wonder and connection, transcending physical boundaries and bringing the marvels of the natural world to the fingertips of a global audience.

In essence, my approach to nature interpretation is an amalgamation of purposeful experiences, inclusive education, and tech-savvy engagement. Each facet serves as a brushstroke in the canvas of my journey, painting a vivid picture of a holistic and accessible environmental narrative. As I navigate the realms of nature interpretation, I do so with the unwavering belief that by fostering experiential learning, promoting inclusivity, and embracing technology, I contribute to a collective awakening—an awakening that celebrates the beauty of nature and inspires a shared commitment to its preservation.

In drawing the curtains on this exploration of my evolving personal ethic as a nature interpreter, it becomes evident that the tapestry of my principles is intricately woven with threads of interconnectedness, awe, and responsibility. This amalgamation forms not only the guiding philosophy of my journey but also the cornerstone upon which I build my role as a steward of the environment.

At its essence, my commitment to interconnectedness extends beyond a conceptual understanding; it is a visceral acknowledgment that we are not separate from nature but rather integral participants in an intricate web of life. This perspective propels me to view myself not merely as an individual but as a part of a larger ecological symphony. It's an acknowledgment that every action, no matter how seemingly inconsequential, resonates within the broader context of our shared existence. This interconnected worldview shapes the lens through which I interpret and convey the narratives of nature, emphasizing the profound relationships that bind us to the ecosystems we inhabit.

Awe, as a guiding principle, is more than just a fleeting sense of wonder. It is a deep and abiding appreciation for the beauty, complexity, and resilience inherent in the natural world. This awe serves as a wellspring of inspiration, fueling my dedication to share the marvels of nature with others. It is in this shared sense of wonder that I seek to spark a collective consciousness, cultivating a reverence for the environment that transcends mere knowledge and transforms into a heartfelt commitment to safeguard our planet.

Responsibility, the third pillar of my ethic, takes root in the recognition that this interconnected and awe-inspiring world demands not just appreciation but active stewardship. As a nature interpreter, I embrace the responsibility to be a conduit of knowledge, facilitating a dynamic exchange between the wisdom of the natural world and the curiosity of those I engage with. This educational role extends beyond a mere transfer of facts; it is an empowerment, equipping individuals with the understanding and agency to contribute meaningfully to the sustainable coexistence of humanity and nature.

Moreover, my commitment to responsibility metamorphoses into a catalyzing force for change. I see myself not only as an observer but as a catalyst for fostering awareness and inspiring transformative action. Through the narratives I weave and the experiences I curate, I aspire to kindle a passion for environmental conservation, creating ripples of change that extend far beyond the confines of the immediate moment.

In championing the cause of the environment, I embrace the role of a vocal and unwavering champion. It is a mantle I willingly bear, advocating for the protection of vulnerable species, endangered habitats, and the delicate balance of ecosystems. In this capacity, my voice becomes an instrument, resonating with stories often unheard, and rallying support for the preservation of our planet's irreplaceable biodiversity.

As I navigate the diverse landscapes of this journey, I am guided by an unwavering belief: that by understanding, appreciating, and respecting nature, we chart a course toward a sustainable and harmonious coexistence with the natural world. This is not just a personal creed but a rallying cry, a call to action for all who share this planet. It is a declaration that, in the tapestry of our shared existence, each thread—no matter how small—contributes to the resilience and vibrancy of the whole. And in this collective effort, we can aspire to be not just observers but active participants in the flourishing story of our planet.

Thank you so much for joining me throughout my journey as a nature interpreter.

Melanie :)

[czenvs3000f23]

Hi Melanie,

Your response to this prompt was delightful to read. You were able to create such vivid imagery to support your opinions, which I really appreciate as a reader.

I really loved what you said about the interconnectedness of nature. As an ecology major myself, this is one of my core beliefs. All the time I feel like I have to advocate for some of the less charismatic species around the world. For example, my roommates are scared of bats for varying reasons. I had to explain to them that they shouldn't be and to have a little more empathy as many native Ontario bats are succumbing to white-nose syndrome. Without bats, we could see an uptick in unregulated insect populations as bats are primarily insectivores. Everything that lives on this planet has a purpose-- there's a reason why they may occupy a certain niche. It's not due to chance or coincidence, it's because they've evolved over millions of years to adapt to their environment, including biotic and abiotic factors. Life is not without consequences, and the decimation of an ecosystem or a species can have real long-lasting impacts that not only affect other organisms but have the potential to threaten human livelihood. We as people often think that we're far removed from the environment but like everything else, we are birthed and intertwined irrevocably with it.

Best of luck during the rest of the semester and your pursuits after graduation. Your insightfulness and passion will serve you well. :)

[mfenvs3000f23]

Small actions, big outcomes! Environment as a frequent classroom topic!

Describe your personal ethic as you develop as a nature interpreter. What beliefs do you bring? What responsibilities do you have? What approaches are most suitable for you as an individual?

This is my final blog post and you likely do not know who I am, but if you are interested, I invite you to delve into Madeline Fantin’s interpretive ethics, values, and ideas for the future.

To start, what beliefs do I bring? I am a wildlife biology and conservation student; therefore, the vast majority of my courses have looked through a scientific lens (western science that is). Perhaps the reason I chose my program is due to possibly my most core belief, that individuals have the power and influence necessary to make a real difference. This is why I became a vegetarian even though my entirely Italian family thinks I’m bonkers, I think one person cutting their carbon emissions is a worthwhile effort. Are billionaires flying their private jets around for unsatisfactory reasons and investing in all kinds of large corporations who dump pollution directly into our environment? Yes of course, and don’t get me wrong, I think part of the fight towards a healthy planet is holding the extremely wealthy accountable. Perhaps they are hoping we will put all the blame on ourselves so that we ignore their insurmountable consumption. However, we are consumers too and where possible, we can choose where to put our money and how to live our lives to a certain extent. I believe that however small, the average citizen’s fight against climate change is valuable and necessary. In conversations I have had with the people in my life, I have learned that many people become unmotivated by the “all or nothing” mindset. For example, I frequently hear people say that they “could never go without meat all the time.” So don’t! Have meatless Mondays! Have meatless weekends! Go pescatarian! Go meatless biweekly! There are unlimited combinations of schedules that could provide a more reasonable expectation. The effort doesn’t need to be “perfect” to be worth something. This can be applied to many environmental actions. In most places in Ontario, it wouldn’t be reasonable to ask people to use public transport or bike as a main form of transportation. Most cities don’t have great public transport, and most people live a long, long bike ride away from their place of work. However just because you cannot bike to work doesn’t mean you can’t ever trade the car for your bike. Maybe there’s a friend you often visit just on the other side of the neighborhood, and maybe you usually drive to them, but when the weather is ideal and if you are able, the bike could work! Many “imperfect” actions are better than no action at all I promise!!!! There is no shame in not being the perfect environmentalist all the time, it is near impossible in the society we have created.

I also believe that there is something to be gained from spending time in nature, for anyone. Whether that is a chance to gather thoughts, get some exercise, some vitamin D, you name it. I don’t think it needs to be picturesque either. Sometimes connecting with nature looks like sitting on the curb outside your east campus townhouse because the sun has reappeared after some days of gloom. Sometimes you will have the energy to head to the arboretum, but when you don’t, taking a sunny break on the curb is better than skipping the outdoors all together. Again, it doesn’t have to be all or nothing.

I believe it is never too late to get started! Everyone, no matter the age or circumstance, should feel like they have a place in the world of nature interpretation and the outdoors. Having not grown up in an outdoor adventure family doesn’t mean you can’t have any outdoor adventures! On that point, outdoor adventures are whatever you make them. They need not be a costly trip to the other side of the continent. Someone with the right mindset could gain more from an hour by the local creek, than someone with the wrong mindset on their trip to Mount Kilimanjaro.

What responsibilities do I have? Well, there are the obvious ones such as to deliver the program I have advertised, inform guests about risk, manage and prevent dangers, present accurate information, check my bias and privilege, to be fun and engaging, and for guests to leave feeling like they have benefitted in some way. Other more specific responsibilities I believe depend on the approach…

So what approaches are the most suitable for me? Well, it is my goal to get into teaching in high school classrooms. This is not the type of environment we have spent the last few months discussing, but nonetheless I think there is a ton of relevant overlap. Nature interpretation could take place in the classroom, or the school yard. There may also be opportunity for class trips where students could be exposed to new ways of learning or new environments.

When relevant to the content, I would aim to stimulate interest and conversation about the environment and environmental issues happening around the world, as they relate to us in Canada and otherwise. I probably plan on living in Canada, and therefore will need to create programs suitable for all 4 seasons. This could mean the same topic modified with each passing season, different topics in each season, or a combination. I am excited to take advantage of the variance each season brings. I think many topics in the high school curriculum could benefit from an environmental lense, and I would look to make connections throughout where possible.

 I would look to encourage active learning and participation through mediums the students may be interested in, just like we talked about all the different mediums of nature interpretation. If I’m teaching grade 9 or 10 science, then this class is still required of them, and many may only be there by necessity. They might not want to be there or have particular interest in the content, which is ok, and I would need to navigate how to still make sure they get what they are meant to, even if they never develop excitement about it.

To revisit responsibilities, as a teacher I must provide a classroom environment conducive to learning, where everyone feels comfortable, valued, and that students look forward to attending each day.

For my final blog post outro (☹), I will say that climate doomism is very contagious and easy to get wrapped up in. I think one of the most important things we can do as nature interpreters is spark hope for change. You never know who is looking to you when they are feeling discouraged about the state of the world, and how you can provide them motivation to keep fighting the good fight!

[czenvs3000f23]

Hi Maddy,

Really loved reading your summary of your personal ethics and your style as a nature interpreter. You bring a very unique and fresh perspective to the conversation which I really appreciate.

I totally agree with your sentiments about climate doomism. I often feel like media outlets thrive on over-exaggerated headlines just to satisfy the algorithm and get some clicks. Every day I see more and more disparaging articles about how we've reached the point of no return in terms of the environment. It almost seems like society has given up, which couldn't be further from the truth.

This summer for example was particularly mild and wet. Across the world, people were getting displaced and killed by deadly floods and storms. In Canada, we come from a place of privilege where we weren't dramatically affected by the uptick in rain (to my knowledge), and have even heard remarks of people being glad that it wasn't as super hot as it usually is. I guess what I'm trying to say is that the climate crisis hurts unprivileged communities the most. We need to stop thinking so individually when it comes to climate change. To put it bluntly, we're all in this together. It's no secret that we're heading into environmental collapse but, now is the time to do something. You're completely right that everyone has to do their part and that there is no excuse for ignorance at this point.

I think in your post you really hit this point home and using examples like diet and transportation are especially pertinent.

Best of luck during exam season and have a great rest of the semester!!

[czenvs3000f23]

Unit 10 Blog

Prompt: Describe your personal ethic as you develop as a nature interpreter. What beliefs do you bring? What responsibilities do you have? What approaches are most suitable for you as an individual?

Last blog post! Crazy to think that this semester is already almost over. I feel like these blog posts have been a good tool to supplement the learning that we did in the course. I've really enjoyed reading everyone's perspectives week by week, and definitely learned a thing or two by doing so.

As someone who's deep in the environmental sciences and seeks to pursue a career in this field, I feel as though I have strong personal ethics. In this line of work, you need to have strong convictions as environmental issues are deeply nuanced and are not as black-and-white as some other disciplines may be. From an ecological point of view, I truly believe that everything is connected and that everything has consequences if things go off-kilter. Even if we can't see it with our naked eye, I can assure you that the implications of anthropogenic changes can ripple through ecological relationships on an individual, population, community, and ecosystem scale.

I really dislike human-centric thinking in which changes in the environment don't matter unless they affect us, whether that be morally, economically, or politically. We as humans have to advocate for things that can't voice their opinions. I don't think that people realize how complex nature really is unless they strive for a career in the environmental sciences. I think the public school curriculum does a disservice in this regard, as they put more emphasis on fields with more profitability. It's surprising to me how out of touch some people are with their environment. I know people who can't identify native Ontario flora and fauna, which is essential to forming a connection with your environment. A mutual friend of mine hasn't even been to the Arboretum up until very recently in his 4 years of undergrad.

I also believe that at its core, environmental education should have no barriers. Children who grew up in urban environments deserve to experience nature at its peak-- not between cracks in sidewalks or confined in a concrete prison. Western science has been and still is dominated by cis-white men who have a very distinct view of what this looks like within an environmental context. We need to encourage other demographics to participate in academia to fill in knowledge gaps that may have not even been realized. In the same vein, I think that understanding Canada's colonial history is vital when considering knowledge gaps. Many Indigenous people are stewards of the environment, participating in guardianship programs to keep biodiversity intact. They also have a breadth of knowledge about the environment since time immemorial. Creating safe and equal opportunities in the name of conserving our planet is essential. I cannot stress that enough.

As I mentioned in previous blog posts over the weeks, I worked this summer as a camp counselor at a farm. I was the only counselor who had a background in environmental science despite camp programming being heavily focused on agriculture and nature. When working there, I often felt as though it was my duty to instill environmental education in the children. I wanted them to be inspired just like I was at their age with science. I frequently brought in my own resources (books, crystals, fossils) to show the campers and to ignite this curiosity.

Touching on the subject of accessibility again, I find that this is a big issue with scholarly journal articles. Personally, I don't think science should be put behind a paywall. Everyone has a right to understand the world around us. I also realize that most academics don't have a say in the monetary aspect of their papers and that the problem lies with the publisher. I'm probably approaching this with some naivety or ignorance due to my lack of knowledge of actually being in that world but, I still feel like my argument holds some merit. Today, so many people are still climate change deniers. When approaching this problem, I definitely think that open-access papers can help with this. People fear what they don't understand.

As a side note, I think that how science is presented in the journal articles itself should be rethought. I'm in a lab and fieldwork course right now where we're basically going through the motions of writing our own research paper. We were heavily discouraged from using synonyms, or really any interesting language. As an academic, I understand why this is. You have to be objective in order to clearly communicate the purpose of your paper. However, as a writer, this frustrates me. You could argue that journal articles are a tool of interpretation itself. Then, shouldn't we approach the methodology of writing papers differently? People whose brains are not wired for science might not even seek out articles about things they're unsure about because of the language barrier. Most people do not have the privilege of attending higher education and have to resort to media outlets that create outrageous/fear-mongering headlines in a subpar attempt at interpretation? Why does there need to be this middleman who profits from falsities and has their own biases?

Everything I've discussed in this blog post are beliefs I hold close to my heart. Without them, I don't think I'd be much of an ecologist or for that matter, a nature interpreter. I don't think we should conform to the way things have always been or approach the climate crisis with apathy. Things have to change. And the only way this can happen is through modes of interpretation. I think this post is a culmination of everything I bring to the table as an interpreter but that doesn't mean I'm right. That's the beauty of interpretation as well, there are always ways to improve, and there are always new perspectives or experiences that should contribute to the conversation.

[befenvs3000f23]

Week 9 Blog Post

Interpret (through this blog) the most amazing thing you know about nature – get us excited. This is your blog – your audience isn’t out in the field with you so bring the field to your armchair reader.

Oh boy, what a prompt this week! It’s hard to narrow down just one incredible thing about nature to share since there’s so many amazing things that I could talk about but for the sake of the blog I want to focus on the ways in which species have changed and adapted over time to their environments. I know it doesn’t exactly have a strong pull in to read more but just stick with me and I’m sure your mind will be blown by the end of this topic.

The sheer scale and variety of ways that organisms have adapted to their environments blows my mind every single day. Some of these adaptations are physical - think camouflage or horns to help an individual survive. Some adaptations might also be behaviours - like how beavers learn to create dams in order to make suitable environments to live in. Some adaptations even change the very chemistry and physiology of organisms, changing ways in which glands within their bodies are used to give them an edge over the competition.

Image credit: https://www.nps.gov/articles/buildabeaverdam.htm#:~:text=Why%20do%20beavers%20build%20dams,%2C%20coyotes%2C%20or%20mountain%20lions.

Let’s start with the example of beavers since this is one that blows my mind on a regular basis. Imagine you’re a small, semi aquatic rodent swimming around and living your life. One day you decide “I’ve had enough of this lake, time to find somewhere new to live!” Without a second thought you could travel many miles in search of a new habitat. Once you arrive, well, there’s plenty of work to be done! With no communication you get to work and start chewing down trees, placing mud to stop gaps in the dam and continue this until you’ve altered a stream and turned it into a lake! This level of work is simply incredible, and beaver dams can be MASSIVE. The largest beaver dam that I could find a record for was 850 metres long. Almost an entire kilometre of beaver dam. To put that into perspective, the CN tower is about 550 metres tall, so one and a half CN towers laying down in order to create this dam. Here’s an image taken from a satellite that puts into perspective the size of the dam.

Image credit: https://www.mountainviewtoday.ca/hot-summer-guide/the-worlds-largest-beaver-dam-is-in-alberta-you-can-literally-see-it-from-space-7090170#:~:text=The%20beaver%20dam%20in%20Wood,largest%20beaver%20dam%20ever%20recorded.

Now, I’ve talked a lot about beavers here, (can you blame me?), but I also wanted to talk about some more incredible adaptations creatures have made in order to survive. As I mentioned, camouflage is one of them, but I’m sure most of us have seen a well hidden animal take off in front of us, or seen pictures of how well stick bugs can hide. What’s even more fascinating for me is things like octopus that can actively change their skin as needed. The way their entire bodies look to cloak themselves in the exact colour they need is endlessly amazing to me and hopefully this gif can bring some of that fascination to you as well. I could talk endlessly about these kinds of topics but it seems I’ve reached my word limit so hopefully this was enough to get you excited for some of the things that excite me.

Image credit: https://totheark.tumblr.com/post/645844076361662464/octopus-changes-color-and-texture

[czenvs3000f23]

Hey,

I loved hearing your perspective on what you find the most fascinating about nature. Just like you, I'm in constant awe of how organisms have adapted to live in their designated environment. It truly baffles me how millions and millions of years of evolution resulted in such diverse strategies. The examples you chose are perfect for describing this phenomenon.

I think one of my favourite adaptations to learn about is migration. It's crazy to me that when it's time for salmon to reproduce, they leave the ocean and swim all the way back to where they were born. It's the fact that something about them makes them remember that fascinates me. What allows them to do this? What advantage does this give the salmon? Not only is there this behavioral adaptation, but along with it are some physiological adaptions. The salmon have to maintain proper salinity in their bodies while traversing the ocean all the way back into freshwater. These two adaptations fall perfectly in line with each other, which I think is pretty cool.

Unfortunately, I feel like we're starting to lose these incredible adaptions of native species due to the introduction of invasive species. For an introduced species to become invasive, they have to cause significant economic and ecological harm. These species usually outcompete native ones, and in turn, can create monospecific communities. Invasive species are extremely adaptable, which is the reason for their success in new environments. If invasive species outcompete native ones, these delicate, well-established ecological adaptations. It's like introducing a disease to a country that has never been exposed to it, causing widespread decimation because the people are not adapted to fighting it off. And thus, we lose a little bit of our natural history along with it.

[czenvs3000f23]

Unit 9 Blog

Prompt: Interpret (through this blog) the most amazing thing you know about nature – get us excited

As someone who's earning a degree in ecology, I'd be lying if I said that I didn't love ecological interactions. As I've grown as an ecologist through coursework, co-op jobs, and trying to put the pieces together of what I want to do with the rest of my life, I've become more and more sure that I'm exactly where I need to be. I find myself in constant awe of the world around me and the sheer complexity of it that few really have an appreciation for.

I think my favourite thing to think about is the diversity of life in the modern age. Okay, that's super broad but stay with me as I paint a picture here. Let's start with something simple, like bears. Currently, there are 8 species, which are found in North and South America, Asia, Europe, and the Arctic. A long time ago these bears shared a common ancestor but since then, have radiated dramatically. Each and every single one of these bear species has evolved to perfectly fit within their niche. Polar bears have black skin and hollow hairs to trap heat when navigating -40 degree temperatures, giant pandas have an extra digit on their paws to grasp bamboo, and sloth bears have huge lips and tongues for sucking up termites. It took millions and millions of years for these traits to become favoured and trickle through the evolutionary pipeline to become what they are today.

Every species on earth is like this. Competing, specializing, and dominating such particular niches that resulted in their existence. Minute changes or preferences in diet, climate, foraging behavior, etc., if you can think of it, there's probably a species that occupies it. To me, it's incredible how tenacious life is and how there is such a determination for survival even in the harshest conditions. To us, it's unimaginable to live in such extremes but I like to think that some organisms don't mind as that's all they've ever known, and that's what they've been programmed for.

What does this have to do with nature interpretation though? Why should we care about biodiversity and the conservation of it? Chapter 3 of our textbook discusses this at length. Interpretation as a whole acts as a tool to strengthen public welfare. Understanding our natural heritage through interpretive programs can cause a greater appreciation for the land on which we live. Hopefully, this can inspire people to want to preserve unique and irreplaceable aspects of our environment. Being knowledgeable in things like the current state of Canada's biodiversity can help inform people when making democratic decisions down the line. I used to work for Environment and Climate Change Canada where I worked on a team to help facilitate the creation of nature agreements that would push the Liberal government's goal of conserving 25% of the land/water by 2025, and 30% by 2030. There is a lot of money being funneled into this initiative (you can access more information at this link if you're interested) which can go away if another party comes into power and doesn't see this funding as a priority.

I think the take-home message I want you to take from this blog post is that curiosity is a gift. Next time you're outside I want you to think about the conditions that allow certain species to thrive in their environment. What niche do they occupy? What adaptive traits allow them to do this? And if you don't know, ask! Read, research, and always stay curious.

[eakenvs3000f23]

Music & Nature 🎶

Nature and music objectively aren’t subjects I would initially think of at the same time. Yet both exist in a perfect parallel to each other. For me music and nature are both able to provoke a deep range of feelings. And I know many others can relate to this. Why do we take nature walks? Why do we make playlists tailored to our moods and activities? I’m sure there are an assortment of individual reasons as experiences can be personalized. Through music and nature, I am able to discover serenity amidst intense emotions, which is closely connected to the appreciation of beauty. 

Music and Nature are both forms of art - exhilarating and inspiring. They are naturally woven together. We are serenaded by the gentle rustling of leaves on a crisp autumn evening, while we can admire the enchanting beauty of the changing tree colors. We can be enveloped in the warm sunrise light as we can take in the radiant skyline. They can also be brought together to alter a perception of a moment. A rainy day has the ability to provoke contrasting emotion. Some music will heighten joy as playfulness is experienced under a cheerful sky. Others will find comfort hidden behind an open window to accept anguish.

Nature and music are found everywhere within each other, even beneath the shroud of a dark sky or across a seemingly barren field. There are always things to be heard and seen even when it does not appear obvious. Their hidden symphonies and visual poetry persist, waiting to be discovered. In the subtle whispers of leaves and the silent expanse of a desolate landscape, there are always treasures for those who seek the beauty in the seemingly ordinary. Nature and music are meant to receive independently provoking intense emotions that we often seek to keep hidden. These unadulterated feelings can resonate deep within us, touching the unspoken depths of our souls.

In moments of music, do you find yourself transported back to memories? Do melodies stir your emotions and elicit responses? Can listening to your favorite song in various natural settings shape your experience in distinctive ways? The next time you find yourself immersed in the beauty of nature, I encourage you to experiment with an assortment of songs and reflect on the profound effects they have on your mood.

Emily

[czenvs3000f23]

Hi Emily,

Really lovely piece of writing that you produced for this week's blog prompt! I really enjoyed reading your writing style and your choice of words was excellent for painting a picture of music and nature.

I think it's really interesting how you posed the question as to why we take nature walks. Certain times in our lives can cause us to seek the refuge of nature and reconnect with the simpler things, like watching the leaves sway and fall from a tree. Our DNA demands us to find solace in fresh air saturating our lungs as we stand deep within a thicket. It's why we listen to white noise, which are usually nature sounds, to act as a lullaby and sleep soundly. Whenever it's raining right before I go to bed, I get excited. I crack open my window so I can fall asleep to the sounds of raindrops drumming steadily on the land. Humans often view themselves as spectators to the environment, too mighty to consider themselves as a product of the landscape. But we have this intrinsic connection to nature, that our minds yearn for even if we don't know it. Immersing yourself in nature and its sounds are said to have incredible health benefits and provide relaxation.

To me, that's why we go on nature walks. It's a means to escape and reconnect with the sounds and the sights that coarse through our blood. Having music and nature work in conjunction is necessary for fostering this "sense of place" that we've discussed since the start of the semester.

[czenvs3000f23]

Unit 7 Blog

Prompt: Where is music in nature? Where is nature in music?

To me, music and nature are one and the same. In my eyes, you can't have one without the other. Music is a part of our DNA, songs from centuries ago still have the magnetic pull capable of emotions that would be too difficult to speak. It enables us to relate life experiences to each other, to make us feel like we're not alone as we go through life. I think the same things can be said about music in nature. The enchanting whale song, the courtship song of two love birds, the sound of cicadas whining in the simmering summer heat. All of these sounds stir something within us, this music seems almost human. How amazing is it, to witness these proclamations of love, friendship, and sorrow? Being able to hear these things is to be privy to a secret language that we could only dream to fully understand. I am in awe that music transcends species and that these animals are complex enough to convey certain emotions.

Recently I was looking through my Reddit feed and came across a post that actually caused me to stop and read it. It was 6 in the morning, I had just woken up from sleep and couldn't go back to bed. This post was about the now-extinct kauai o'o' bird. The Redditor had linked a video to the post and explained that this was the song of the last kauai o'o', singing to a female that will never respond and will never come. The song was incredibly haunting, I was dumbfounded upon hearing it for the first time. How cruel was it that we as humans, caused the demise of this species? Last week when we talked about preserving history, this is an example of just that. I am so lucky that this bird is still alive in people's memories and that its voice hasn't been lost to time. I've linked the video below, please take a look at it if you have the chance:

Moving onto the follow-up to the prompt, I have certain songs that I associate with different times in my life. Last summer, my dad and I took a road trip down to Cape Cod. We had created a playlist of mostly his songs (surf rock, 80s alternative, the Ramones) and some songs that I like. As we were driving down there we were talking about our cats, as we often do. In particular, we were talking about Sassy:

And how she tends to do this purr-meow when she wants something. This conversation reminded my dad of a song where the lead singer makes a similar sound. It was The Middle of the Road by the Pretenders and that song became the anthem for our time in Cape Cod. It has sort of a summery and carefree feel to it, mixed with bittersweet nostalgia for memories I've never had. I've linked it below if you're interested:

It's so interesting how we associate certain songs with certain periods of our life. Even if I can't physically go back into a memory, I still have a piece of it, to keep in my pocket, always there if I want to listen.

[ejenvs3000semesterf23]

Unit 6: Nature Interpretation through History

"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."

To put it plainly, this quote describes how the property of history brings about an importance to things. The first part of the quote mentions that ancient objects are not inherently important but the act of keeping them intact and pure makes them important. This makes me think of a beautifully carved antique chair or one of the gigantic redwood trees in British Columbia. These are objects of the past; they were either made for a different time or were born from a different time, yet here they are all these years later. Following this, the quote lists what keeping the integrity of something really means. It can be more abstract than just maintaining a really old chair. Integrity could be the stories that comes along with the chair. Who has sat in it? Who potentially died in it? Where was it made? What was it made from? Who was the person that made it? The list goes on; there are so many stories and details that could come about something as simple as an old chair. Keeping the answers to these questions associated with objects is also maintenance of integrity. The last half of the quote outlines a metaphor that the past does not simply pass by us and disappear like a train at the train station. That would be silly to think, not only is the train still existent on the tracks but its influence on the station it passed by may extend much further than is easily seen. Historic objects can share what humankind was up to long ago as well as our connection to nature. 

To me, one of the most interesting artifacts that has been recovered was a piece of a harpoon embedded within a live bowhead whale. This piece of harpoon was dated to be over 100 years old! This harpoon piece delivered a snapshot of the history of humans' connection with humans. Whales used to be hunted for resources but now they are protected. This one poor whale had left a reminder to the world of the cruel behaviour humans once threatened nature with. As a developing nature interpreter what ancient artifact could be more important than that?

To add to previous points, the textbook mentions that “We need the past for our sense of who we are. We need the past for a sense of our civic responsibility, how all these benefits and freedoms came to us, and what it is our duty to protect.” The past gives us all of our context for our future. We need to understand the past to understand what we as a society have to do in order to function, what rights were given to us and what we must defend to keep our integrity. I think it is also important to understand the flip side of this. To be given these rights, whose might have been taken away? We need to appreciate our history and what past people's experiences have given to us while also remaining humble about what we do have.

[czenvs3000f23]

Hey,

Really lovely blog post! I agree a lot with your take and how a big portion of history is preserving memories/objects to gain insight into life now lost.

I think it's really interesting how you described this concept by making an analogy with the example of the antique chair. However, I want to touch more on what you said about the redwoods in British Colombia.

Oftentimes I feel as though society doesn't value tangible objects the same way they do with the environment. For one thing, artefacts from the past as esteemed for how human life was at a certain point. People tend to collect a litany of items, display them in a museum, and educate the public about them. I don't find that this rings true with habitats and ecosystems across the world. A place could be ancient, harboring a refuge for animals and plants for thousands of years but people can, and will still support it for profit. Natural history just isn't a priority and instead, is seen as a good way to turn a profit. Take the redwoods for example, old growth forests in British Colombia are being decimated for the lumber industry. These trees have seen communities and events rise and fall, but it makes no difference to a big company with the right permits.

So, how do we combat this? I think nature interpretation can be used as a tool to gain more appreciation for our landscape and prevent losing parts of our natural history.

[czenvs3000f23]

Unit 6 Blog

Prompt:

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.

(Edward Hyams, Chapter 7, The Gifts of Interpretation)

Unpack this quote.

I am someone who loves history. I will purposely seek out means to expand my knowledge of our existence as it excites me to know where exactly we came from and how certain events effectively changed society. In my third year I took a class on medieval history and was surprised to see how much religion was intertwined in politics for thousands of years. I was expecting knights and princesses and heroics but was met with more complex worldviews that influence culture to this very day. History to me, is not so much of the specifics of a particular event, but why it happened and the implications it had on subsequent events.

I know many people may not get the same joy of diving into the past, which is okay. However, not understanding why history is a subject that is mandatory to take in high school and complaining about why we need to learn about things already dead and gone is not. As the above quote suggests, history does not matter unless there is a drive to maintain those past lessons. And this drive is only possible through the real-life consequences that echoed as a result, keeping the memory alive in some people.

If we look inward at Canadian history, we can find some good examples of this. One that is especially pertinent are the injustices surrounding Indigenous communities across the nation. The effects of colonialism, genocide, and the erasure of consequences have been long-lasting, citing a need for reconciliation in the current day. Looking back is oftentimes uncomfortable, but it is necessary for rewriting wrongs and ensuring that it doesn't happen again. We still have a long way to go and current policies are not perfect but the seeds are finally being planted.

To tie in the nature interpretation side of things, the environment is deeply engrained into our culture. For the longest time we've tried to unravel science and were only able to crack the code by people who aren't traditionally trained. As noted in Unit 6 in our course content, enthusiastic naturalists have been integral in preserving the natural history of a location or an organism for hundreds of years. Take Darwin for example, whose love for nature led to one of the greatest scientific breakthroughs ever.

Knowing our natural history has further implications for understanding the impacts of climate change. Data can be used to locate anomalies and trends to see what's normal and what's not. We can also see if certain organisms are shifting their ranges or if their population sizes are changing. Having these little pieces of information that people long ago were passionate to not only write down but kept it alive into the modern day.

[bmenvs3000f23]

My Experience with Operation Groundswell and My Future Plans with Ecotourism - Blog 5

In March 2019, I embarked on an ecotourism trip to Cusco, Peru, with an organization called Operation Groundswell. You may be thinking, you went on this trip in 2019; why are you still bringing it up?! My answer to that is because it honestly shaped my life! I was in my victory lap (or Grade 13) of high school, looking for ways to get out and experience the world. I knew that I needed to revive myself with travel and step outside my comfort zone, and lucky enough, an Instagram ad popped onto my timeline. This ad promoted ecotourism, something I had not heard of, but I was intrigued. After checking out their Instagram page and looking further into their website, I came across the “Peru: Secrets of the Sacred Valley” trip. Before my research, I had never considered travelling to Peru and had minimal knowledge. I calculated the finances, dipped into my savings, purchased some outdoor gear, and decided to explore what Peru had to offer. I would like to recognize the privilege I had to participate in this experience and my ability to purchase the outdoor gear I needed. Without support from family and some fundraisers, this trip would have never been available to me. I am so grateful that this opportunity came to me and that I was able to gain financial support!

After months of fundraising, saving, and picking up extra shifts, I headed to Toronto Pearson Airport for only my second time and set off to Peru with only a backpack! I embraced my family one last time before setting off for my first solo travel experience. From Toronto, I travelled to JFK Airport in New York -> Lima, Peru -> Cusco, Peru, the final destination. The long commute was exhausting, but I was revived once Peru's warm, humid air hit my face. I was picked up by the local ecotourism leader and transported to our hostel to meet the rest of the ecotourism group!

Figure 1. Cusco, Peru. Photographed by: Brigette Matthias.

While on this trip, I was fully immersed in Peruvian culture and learned the history of the Andes! We spent time making our own granola bars out of local ingredients, picking eucalyptus and creating our own essential oils, collaborating with local environmentalist groups to discuss the issues the Indigenous community faced regarding mining injustices, and spent three days hiking through the pristine Sacred Valley. This trip began a strong relationship between myself and the environment, and it guided me to environmental science!

I was unfamiliar with mining injustices and the mining industry's impact on the earth and the people. Many mining companies take advantage of the Indigenous community in Peru and offer them false promises and monetary rewards. The main issue is that the Indigenous people are told they will gain lots of money by selling their land to mining companies, but they often lack financial literacy and knowledge about banking. Therefore, they are left with no land and no money. Mining and resource extraction is a significant industry in Peru, however, these extractions are responsible for polluting the environment and displacing the rightful landowners. This not only happens in Peru, but it happens in Canada, as well. Many injustices facing Indigenous communities in Canada are due to large fossil fuel corporations and their greed to overexploit resources, displace Indigenous communities, and gain profit. Companies such as these have caused many environmental issues and contributed to climate change. Learning about these hardships in Peru led me to further research these environmental problems. It encouraged me to attend school to learn more about how I can play a role in mitigating climate change and ecological extraction.

My trip also allowed me to learn the benefits of medicinal plants and how the knowledge of these plants was passed down for generations. Our group gathered eucalyptus leaves to be prepared for essential oil making, and we watched a local use their equipment to produce natural products. Peruvians have learned to respect the land and Mother Earth, whom they call Pachamama. They appreciate the earth and use medicinal plants to treat illnesses and support their health. They also use plants to produce natural dyes for clothing and textile art, such as bracelets, headbands, hats, and purses. Learning how the colourful Peruvian clothes were made was fascinating, and I am beyond grateful that I got to see this firsthand.

Figure 2: Brigette and Kait in naturally dyed, traditional Peruvian clothing.

A local guide guided us through the Sacred Valley with his dog over three days. He taught us about the native plants and the importance of the valley, led us to a farm that tended to sheep and lived isolated from the cities, and taught us his native language. This was one of the most influential nature interpretation walks I have ever experienced, and I learned so much about Peru! Nature interpretation truly is a vessel and can allow people to feel connected to the earth, nature, and everything it provides. Ecotourism is also an excellent method for eco-conscious tourists. It can allow local environmental groups to receive funding while spreading their knowledge about their work to the rest of the world.

Figure 3: Brigette and local guide in the Sacred Valley, Peru.

I am forever changed by my trip to Peru. I am thankful that Operation Groundswell offers such beautiful ecotourism programs that allow people to experience the world thoroughly and unconventionally. I plan to travel to Guatemala with this organization after completing my undergraduate studies! I recommend this program to anyone with a love for nature, a backpacking enthusiast, or anyone seeking a meaningful and immersive thrill!

Figure 4: The March 2019 Operation Groundswell Peru Group in the Sacred Valley, Peru.

What places have you travelled to, and how did your travels impact your lives? I’m looking forward to hearing everyone’s travel memories!

To learn more about Operation Groundswell: Operation Groundswell: Backpacking with a Purpose | Join Today!

[czenvs3000f23]

Hi Brigette,

Really wonderful post! I loved reading about how you came into going to Peru and how the trip shaped you as a person. I don't know too much about Peru itself, so it was really nice to learn a little bit through your blog post.

I've never heard of the mining injustices impacting local Indigenous communities in Peru and it's such a shame that these people are being taken advantage of. When I used to work for Environment Canada, I attended a seminar that was held about national Indigenous issues. One speaker specifically stuck out to me because she talked about how her people are being displaced by the tar sands in Alberta. The lands of Fort McMurrary have been sacred to this Indigenous community since immemorial. Now, they are seeing its destruction through water and air pollution, deforestation, and more. It's incredibly upsetting to hear about this, especially how this is happening to Indigenous communities all over the world.

In terms of traveling, I haven't gone anywhere too crazy in the last few years. My most recent trip was to Cape Cod last summer and I had a blast. One of the highlights was going deep sea fishing with my Dad for half a day. I caught a couple of porgies and black sea bass but they were too small so we had to throw them back. That particular excursion really pushed me out of my comfort zone, but in the end, I enjoyed it a lot. The day we went out was really nice, the sky was clear and the ocean was absolutely gorgeous. I love doing outdoor activities-- especially in new places!

[czenvs3000f23]

Unit 5 Blog

No prompt for this week!

Since this week's unit focuses on nature interpretation through science, I thought it'd be nice to reflect on some of my experience with this lens applied. To me, science is a huge part of nature interpretation and without it, I don't think we would be necessarily able to interpret effectively.

I'm a big advocate for southern Ontario's natural heritage. I know typically this isn't a specific hotspot that environment lovers bend over backward for, but I would actually beg to disagree. Sure it's not as visually stunning as some other biomes around the world but I would say that it's just as dynamic.

There's a certain joy I get when I'm able to correctly identify a native wildflower or tree. It's a little bit of a pat on the back, and an assurance of my knowledge. However, it creates this connection between me and the landscape I call home. Appreciation for the little things, like certain ecosystem dynamics, migratory birds that are due south for the winter, and local carnivorous plants that you can find in your own backyard, culminate into this profound feeling of astonishment. I live in constant awe that we get to live in a place where we experience four seasons. Right now in the heart of October, the leaves are turning into vibrant hues of orange, deep crimson, and bright yellow. There's a chill in the air, hallmarks of colder weather ahead as we broach December.

I think my favourite season is actually the absence of seasons. I love the transition of when it's not really summer but it's also not really fall or when winter melts into spring. Here at this time, we really see change. Physical, behavioral, you name it. Things are growing, things are dying-- it's really fascinating to see.

Being able to harness this knowledge and relay it in an interpretative manner is critical for gaining support for climate change mitigation movements. People aren't going to feel a compulsion to conserve something they don't care about. That's why we have to start fostering this connection in children early. I feel like there's this big lack of environmental education within schools in general. I remember in grade 6 science there was supposed to be a unit on ecology and I was so excited to learn about this in a traditional school setting. However, we spent so much time on other units (planes, and electricity I think) that we had to skip ecology altogether. My peers who might not have the same passions as me probably didn't seek this knowledge for themselves. Which later in life, could lead to indifference to climate issues just based on ignorance.

I guess what I'm trying to say is that learning about the science of where we are right now, is instrumental for nature interpretation. Really emphasizing the majesty of northern temperate forests will hopefully inspire members of the community to take more active roles in terms of education, activism, and appreciation.

[slenvs3000f23]

Blog Post 4

Who are you to interpret nature through art? How do you interpret “the gift of beauty”?

Who am I to interpret nature through art? I am someone deeply captivated with the great outdoors, finding comfort in the rustle of leaves, the dance of sunlight through the trees, and the gentle melodies of chirping birds. For me, nature is not just a place, but it’s a canvas of boundless beauty waiting to be explored, appreciated, and immortalized through art. Art, in its various forms, has a unique ability to mimic the intricate patterns and vibrant colours of nature. The strokes of a paintbrush or the chisel marks on a sculpture can capture the essence of a blooming flower, a majestic mountain, or a serene river, allowing us to carry a piece of nature’s beauty with us, even indoors. But art's role doesn’t stop at only imitation – it goes deeper.

Art is a gateway that opens our eyes to the profound beauty existing in the natural world. It serves as a bridge, connecting our emotions with the wonders of the environment. In chapter five, the concept of “the gift of beauty” is perfectly defined. Interpretation, at its core, aims to instill in people the ability and desire to sense the beauty in their surroundings.

Renowned artists like Vincent van Gogh have demonstrated the transformative power of art. Through his masterpieces, van Gogh breathed life into nature, immortalizing its beauty on canvas. His works have allowed people to perceive nature in diverse forms, aiding in a collective understanding and appreciation for the natural world. Art, in this context, becomes a universal language, transcending cultural boundaries and bringing people together in awe of the Earth’s wonders. 

However, art is not just about aesthetics, but it’s also about education and awareness. More than a beautiful object, art can be a powerful tool for change, addressing pressing environmental issues like conservation, sustainability, and biodiversity. It has the ability to interact with viewers by sparking conversations about crucial environmental issues. By depicting threatened habitats, endangered species, and the delicate balance of ecosystems, art educates and engages. It touches hearts and minds, inspiring action and nurturing a sense of responsibility towards the environment. Yet, the interpretation of art is as diverse as the art itself. Art is subjective, and its beauty lies in the eye of the beholder. Each stroke of the brush, every sculpture, and every photograph can evoke different emotions and interpretations. What one person sees as a symbol of hope, another might perceive as a reminder of fragility.

In essence, being someone who interprets nature through art is an insightful journey of connection, education, and advocacy. I think it’s about capturing the essence of nature’s beauty and sharing it with the world, while igniting a spark of appreciation, understanding, and action. Through art, we not only renew our connection with nature but also invite others to experience the gift of beauty that the natural world graciously entrusted to us.

Thanks for reading :)

Shanel

[czenvs3000f23]

Hi Shanel,

Awesome post, I loved reading how you described being captivated by the outdoors. Ever since I was a kid I always thought that clouds were the most beautiful thing I've ever seen. To me, it was like an artist painted them-- I couldn't believe the colours, and textures were a result of biogeochemical processes.

I like what you said about how art is not just about aesthetics, but about education. However, I don't think we need to limit ourselves to art that is solely and plainly about the environment. A lot of Indigenous art focuses on the connectivity of nature and other ecological concepts. Yes, it says something about ecosystems but also sheds light on a central tenet of environmentalism for many Indigenous beliefs. There's a really powerful piece by Kent Monkman that's displayed at the AGO that I added below this post. It's a haunting image that has themes of colonialism, culture, and sexuality. Divesting from a purely Western perspective is critical when discussing environmentalism as Indigenous knowledge can provide valuable insights for conservation. Even though a painting like this may be uncomfortable, it does a really important job of generating discussions. Learning about our colonial history, as well as the Western ideals that follow it, is imperative for deconstruction and to allow for more perspectives in science. For so long science has been dominated by white men, who have their biases and prejudices. Now, we have to make science accessible to all, to ensure the health of our planet for future generations.

[czenvs3000f23]

Unit 4 Blog

Prompt: Who are you to interpret nature through art? How do you interpret “the gift of beauty”?

To me, nature and art are synonymous. It's impossible to have one without the other. There's a reason why some of the most world-renowned and critically acclaimed paintings are of beautiful, sweeping landscapes. But it's not always that simple. How the art is created, through the use of different techniques is just as important. Colour and contrast can be used expertly to convey a specific theme, as well as line weight and perspective. Art, at its core, is deeply human. We seek to find ourselves in art and how to best relate to it. Sometimes art can say things we ourselves don't have the words for. It evokes profound feelings of relatability that guide understanding across cultures and continents.

Seeing this, it's no wonder that art has been used as a tool for nature interpretation. As mentioned in the textbook, the gift of beauty can be interpreted through genius loci. I firmly believe that each natural site has its own unique history that contributes to its overall significance. This doesn't have to be strictly natural history either, but cultural, geographic, artistic, and architectural history as well. Connecting heritage to art emphasizes the importance of a particular area and why it is being conserved for use by the general public.

In addition to this, being able to share this sense of beauty in nature is critical for interpretation. There must be some medium where many people partake in a site's beauty without ever physically stepping foot there. I have an appreciation for places around the world that I've never even been to, and this was only possible through photographs, paintings, poems, etc.

Art can also be used as a tool to start conversations about difficult topics without being direct about it. Making an artistic statement is sometimes more useful than straight-up facts because there is engagement from the audience. People can ask questions, dissect certain word choices or colour palettes, and gain an understanding of the intent. Usually, art is not so black-and-white, it is filled with nuances that are more thought-provoking when discussed, rather than served up neatly on a platter.

So, who am I to interpret nature through art? Well, I'm not the authority on what constitutes good and bad art but rather can contribute my own perspective on what I consider art. That's the thing about using art as a medium to portray certain themes, it's subjective. Generating discussions about art can aid in the acknowledgment of its significance.

I went to the Rockwood Conservation area this weekend and took some breathtaking photos of the beautiful fall colours. To me, these represent the vastness of nature and the complexity that each season brings. But that's just me-- what do you think? :)

[jrmenvs3000f23]

Week 3

Blog prompt: What role does “privilege” play in nature interpretation? Please include your working definition of privilege.

Well this question feels too big for 500 words.  I find it really hard to recognise privilege without a variety of other perspectives; it almost feels like trying to see oneself without a mirror.

My definition of privilege is simply having access to or ability to be able to do something which others might not have because of a lack in financial, cultural, geographical or educational resources or opportunities.  My personal definition is a bit messy because I am actively trying to keep it fluid.  I fear that if I commit to a particular definition, then I will not be as open-minded to what could constitute privilege and when there are examples of it.  I would like to always question if I do truly understand privilege as I think this increases my consistency of watching for it.

In regards to what role privilege may play in nature interpretation, I am going to take this opportunity to consider how my own privilege could influence my approach.

I always felt that I belonged in cottage country, on hiking trails, at the zoo, in parks and gardens, front yards and backyards because I grew up going to these places.  To me, these spaces have always been accessible to anyone who is interested, which I now know is not the case.

I was raised in a home which put education on a pedestal and made sure we were financially supported to engage with it.  I was always told that an undergraduate degree was there to teach one how to think and types of conversation we have in my family regularly practices critical thinking.

We always had food, shelter, heat and clothing and we did not experience any natural disasters or any other type of threat from the natural world.

My privilege has led me to view nature through a Romantic lens because I have never had to see it from any other perspective.  This is overly simplistic but Romanticism is a significant part of my way of seeing the natural world.

Because of my privilege I think I might be insensitive to a person’s ability or comfort level to access certain natural spaces.  I might assume my participants have a certain level of knowledge about the water cycle, for example, because of the education which I received.  I might expect that someone can follow my train of thought because I am accustomed to being surrounded by individuals who think similarly.  I could easily make a comment denigrating people damage a space which we are viewing perhaps by taking wood from forests, without considering that this might feel judgemental to a guest who has to take the wood to keep their home warm. Privilege creates bias and blind spots in every aspect of our lives including how we think about the natural world.  These are reasons why I hope that as I engage in nature interpretation, I appreciate the opportunity it presents to learn about the people with whom I am communicating and reflect on my own biases as I communicate with them.

[czenvs3000f23]

Hey,

I really appreciate your take on the subject of privilege. I know it's a hard issue to broach due to all the complexities and nuances, especially to do so with only 500 words but, I think you really captured how this plays into nature interpretation.

I relate to your sentiments about always having a sense of place within nature. Having this interest really inspired me to pursue an environmental career because I had the resources growing up to explore it. A lot of environmental/climate/biodiversity issues are things that seem second nature to me (pun intended ;) ). However, this thinking might not be as cut and dry for other people.

When I worked at a farm summer camp this past year, I really recognized this gap of knowledge within the children. It was shocking to me that some of these kids weren't able to name some of the farm animals or local Ontario produce. I had to remind myself that instead of making them feel bad for what they don't know, but to take it as an opportunity to educate them. I realized that I had the privilege to go to hobby farms, farmer's markets, and other places to learn this first-hand. Some kids, for any reason, may not have the same means. I think a big part of nature interpretation is creating an equal playing ground for everyone to learn without barriers. I strongly believe that nature is for everyone and just providing a chance to show some empathy can be life-changing.

[czenvs3000f23]

Unit 3 Blog

Prompt: What role does “privilege” play in nature interpretation? Please include your working definition of privilege.

I think privilege is a central tenet of nature interpretation. A comprehensive understanding of what privilege is as well as how it touches every aspect of our lives is crucial for effective programming. To my understanding, privilege defines the advantages someone may have that they might not even be aware of. These advantages can provide an edge for gaining opportunities that others may not have access to based on different barriers.

Personally, I think I've been on both sides of the privilege coin. I come from a middle-class family in the suburbs and had access to good schools while growing up. Due to my family's financial status, it allowed me to participate in expensive extracurriculars (ballet, swimming, skating), explore my passions (National Geographic subscriptions) and provided me an education at one of the district's top-rated high schools. I had the resources to really figure out my direction in life. However, some might have not been as fortunate. Oftentimes someone of a lower economic status can't afford to throw money at hobbies, they need it for rent, food, and utilities.

On the other hand, I feel as though being a woman in STEM presents its challenges. I like to be feminine, wear makeup, and wear nice outfits. Doing these things makes me feel like myself as it provides some structure and routine to my day. Despite this, I feel like presenting this way gives off preconceived notions about my intelligence. People may think I'm trying too hard or that there's no reason for me to get dressed up. These thoughts are often fueled by misogyny by those who don't believe women have a place in science. And if they do, well then the woman has to minimize herself as much as possible to make them comfortable. How I dress and the makeup I wear does not and should not affect my ability to be a scientist.

In terms of nature interpretation, I think this conversation really highlights the complexity of what privilege is. People are multi-faceted, meaning that one person's advantages may be non-existent for others. Or, some may be privileged in some way but disadvantaged in others. Careful consideration of how privilege affects the delivery of nature interpretation can provide equal access and opportunities to all. Nature itself has no boundaries-- it's everywhere. Neither should education about it. Having a connection to the environment is so important when even thinking about climate change mitigation and conservation efforts. This is simply not possible to do if only a percentage of the population is willing to do something about it. Creating accessible opportunities for all is key. I think it's so sad when children are unaware of the majesty of Ontario's ecology. Sure, it's not visually impressive like the Amazon but there is a wealth of information that makes the landscape like no other.

[egenvs3000f23]

Week 2 My role as an environmental interpreter

Describe your ideal role of environmental interpreter. What might it entail? Where might it be? What skills might you need? (Keep these all-in mind as you begin to work on your assignments – tailor these to that ideal job!)

Blog Response:

When I call it a day and am off to sleep, I think about the events, choices and attitudes of the day just passed. The most fulfilling days always involve time spent in the outdoors, having used my mind, my body, learned something new, and having had the opportunity to get to know or spend time with the people around me. I love speaking with others, learning their world views, and the differences and similarities between myself and the given person, or group of people. 

This being said, my ideal job, or role in an environmental interpretation position is one where I am outside, working as a discovery facilitator, and one where I am active throughout the day. It is a dream job of mine to work as a hiking guide or a bikepacking tour guide in a national park! I’m graduating this year and am applying to jobs with these roles involved in them! I am so nervous but cannot wait to see how things go! 

Based on my previous experience, as mentioned in the last post, I had the chance to work in a nature interpretation role with BC parks! It gave me a lot of insight into how differently people learn, and how what works really well for some people, makes no sense to others. Age is also a big factor, I was better at working with the adults at the interpretation events than kids. However I must say, that the enthusiasm of kids discovering and learning in the outdoors cannot be beat! It was really helpful, as noted in the readings, to build a sense of rapport between you and those being communicated with, it really makes people listen to what you say because they know where your credibility lies, and how it fits within theirs. It develops a sense of trust and friendship which can make learning what otherwise could be dry information, interesting, digestible and meaningful.

I need to do some more research on how to appeal to different learning styles, but I think it is hard to make plans without having a good understanding of the audience first. How one actually intends to play to different learning styles is very context specific. I suppose the solution, to this, and the best quality, most accessible nature interpretation is to always play to different learning styles and just be adaptable as the audience makes their ways known. There could be visual learners so always having maps, diagrams images, paper and pencils on hand could be good ideas. For those who tend towards kinesthetic learning, making sure there is a physical component to the information, a game, a hike, or bike while learning about different species for example. Understanding that there are active and reflexive listeners, sensing and intuitive listeners, sequential and global learners, and then just playing to the needs of individuals in the given group is I think the best way to go. This is something I’ve learned that I need to make sure to focus on when doing nature interpretation in the future.

I think that its worth mentioning that even if someone is a specific type of learner they still have much to gain from learning in other ways as well. There are simply some things that cannot be learned through one type of learning. One cannot learn how to ride a bike by drawing it out, the drawing could help demonstrate the information, but learning to ride a bike will always be a kinesthetic task.  I would expect that everyone has a different balance of the types of learning, but that everyone makes some use of them all at some point. This is a viewpoint I plan to take with me into any nature interpreting career. Always include all the learning styles, but don’t focus too hard to cater to one specific type while neglecting the others. Catering to the individuals, and crowd but still being realistic!

A fun aside (an app I really enjoy using myself):

An app that could be relevant to readers! i-naturalist is a great app for learning about species in the outdoors. You can upload a photo, make a guess as to what you think it is, and you then find out if you are correct on the app. It is also super fascinating because it catalogs and records all the sightings of species and keeps the data for science and the public to use!

Another gif! Go adventure in the outdoors!

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Hey,

Awesome post! I really loved reading your perspective on what being a nature interpreter means to you. It was so interesting to learn about your plans for the future and your dream job! I totally agree that a hallmark of a productive day is one in which you get out of your comfort zone. I feel as though as an interpreter, it's extremely important to be exposed to all sorts of walks of life to gain a better understanding of the world around us. Learning about someone really makes me appreciate their individuality.

I think this ties into your sentiments about age being a huge factor when interpreting. There is definitely a difference in what age bracket is most receptive to certain information. Being able to harness this could really enhance the interpretation experience by having a solid idea of your audience. I worked with children this summer and noticed differences in ages even 2 years apart. When I first started my job I told my supervisor that my preference would be leading a group of older kids (10-12) as I was worried about interaction with younger ages due to a lack of experience. However, I learned that this held its own host of challenges. In the end, I enjoyed my time with the 5 year-olds even though I didn't think I would before. I guess what I'm trying to say is that interpreting for different groups can be surprising. You might like things you would've never expected to!

Good luck in your job hunt and I hope you land your dream job!!