Nature Interpretation, Science & Work
I never really thought that I was a nature interpreter before I started this course. Well, that is probably because I didn’t know the full extent of it. I’ve realized that nature interpretation not only started when I was younger, but actually followed me to my current job. As I mentioned in my first blog post I’ve been working for the Grand River Conservation Authority (GRCA) for the past four years. If you are ever looking for a summer student job I highly recommend! Working at Pinehurst Lake, I never realized how often I would explain nature through “a scientific lens” to the public (Hooykaas, 2020). For example, many visitors would ask where the lake flows in and out of, with many guessing that it was spring fed. I would then explain to them that this lake is actually a kettle lake meaning it was created by retreating glaciers. The only way for it to gain water is through precipitation unlike other lakes that predominantly have a natural outflow such as a river or stream.
One of the boating docs at Pinehurst overlooking the kettle lake. - Taken by me
Another question where I was able to use my nature interpretation skills was when it came to fishers. I would be asked what types of fish are found in the lake and what are the “best spots” to catch them. I could explain to them that yes, there are pan fry species such as Sunfish or Pumpkinseed but as you reach the deepest parts of the lake there are Smallmouth Bass. Then, as you reach the area of the lake with stumps and rocks you’ll be able to find Largemouth Bass especially if you stick close to the weeds.
This is the spot in the lake for bigger fish! - Taken by me
I was even able to interpret nature just by waiting outside with my coworkers to clean the bathrooms. Many kids always thought we were Park Rangers, even with our bright orange construction shirts and would ask us what type of insect was on the wall or what type of animal tracks were on the trail close to us. You start becoming very intuned with your surroundings and by this past summer, I could definitely say I was able to answer each question confidently.
Maintenance Team to the rescue to get this Snapper covered in duckweeds out of the road! -Taken by me
It’s amazing to think about how many visitors and campers I’ve had the chance to interpret nature to. Whether that was a senior wanting to know everything I could tell them about the kettle lake or a kid being confused between a frog and a toad. It feels good knowing that within their day I could teach them a small amount of nature and they can pass it onto the next person who might ask them.
There’s not only fishing at Pinehurst Lake but canoes and kayaks can be rented as well to use! - Taken by me
I’m hoping after this course I will return to my job and use these skills I’ve been gaining throughout the course.
A question I have for you guys is has there been a time when you have been a nature interpreter and not realized it? What was it? How can you take what we have learned so far in the course and apply it to your next encounter?
Cait
If you want to learn more about GRCA and Pinehurst Lake visit:
https://www.grandriver.ca/en/index.aspx
I had to put one more photo of Jack, Bryce, me and Cass. They’ve become some of my best friends over the years working there! -Taken by our boss on our last shift this summer
References:
Hooykaas, Amanda. “CourseLink.” Unit 05: Nature Interpretation through Science , 2020, courselink.uoguelph.ca/d2l/le/content/666945/viewContent/2591289/View.