ENVS 3000 University of Guelph

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Disclaimer

This blog was created for ENVS 3000 Tara Kaur, 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.

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Final Blog: Beliefs of a Nature Interpreter

Hey everyone, welcome back! This will be my final blog post and I just wanted to take a quick second to thank everyone for reading my thoughts and ideas and I wanted to say it was a wonderful time! I really enjoyed seeing all your opinions about my thoughts and I hope to see them one last time in this post! Stay strong, protect the natural world around you, and keep exploring! As always I hope you enjoy my thoughts and pictures.

Nature is such an important part of everyone's life, and must be preserved at all costs. However, to some nature is more than just an escape. It’s a calling. I believe that every little thing in nature is worth saving, protecting, and maintaining its beauty. In the class content it said, “we can create nature-rich communities where kids feel a deep and abiding love for the living systems that we are all immersed in” (Hooykaas, 2024), and this quote really stuck with me because I believe that every person in this world should be given the ability to establish their own special bond with the natural world around them. I believe the preservation of nature should be of the utmost importance because if the natural world changes too much there may not be any of the same things that we hold dear left to explore, and without it so many people would be left confused and unsure where to wander. I believe it is also extremely important to teach others, especially the younger generations how very important it is to maintain the beauty of what can occur when humans do not manipulate the environment. I also believe it is important to not interfere with natural occurrences that you might stumble across no matter how disturbing, awkward, or sad it may be. For example, last summer I came across many different animals doing various things from water snakes mating to a garter snake eating to a family of beavers building a damn under a dock, of course I tried to take pictures if I could, but not a chance would I get too close or startle the animals due to the slightest chance of it messing with their routine.

This is a collage of a few things I’ve witnessed while out exploring nature. Top left is a shaggy mane mushroom, top right is a member of the beaver family that was creating a dam, bottom left is a garter snake attempting to eat an earthworm, and the bottom right is a very large wolf spider that was just hanging around.

Being an nature interpreter is a role that must help others explore aspects of nature that they wouldn’t have thought to look at. Nature interpreting is so much more than simply a job. As I said before it’s a calling, a passion, a craving for exploration, and bringing what is unknown into the light for other people to be in the know. Nature interpreters have some of the largest responsibilities for the future. They hold the responsibility of being storytellers for future generations. They won’t just say facts about nature because that is not what gets people, more importantly kids, interested in the natural world. Kids are interested in video games and have simulations of nature, however, it is the responsibility of nature interpreters to tell exciting and eccentric stories that get them wanting and willing to go out and experience it for themselves (Boeckel, 2015). It is also the responsibility of the interpreter to be well-prepared, insightful, and communicate efficiently and in an appropriate manner depending on the audience that they are attending to. It is also the responsibility of the interpreter to, while telling the stories, make sure that everyone who is listening knows how important even the smallest thing in an ecosystem is all the way down to the small twig/branch the kids may want to pick up and play with. 

This was a location that we visited called Overhanging point (name is kinda self explanatory) during a guided hike. This was carved out by glacial ice movement.

As an individual it may seem difficult at times to think that what you say has an impact on the overall scheme of things, but there are many things that one person can do that can change and pull so many more people in. As it says in the textbook, find a way to articulate your ideas and points in a relevant, creative, and caring manner because that is what draws the attention of others (Beck, Cable, and Knudson, 2018). There are many ways to engage groups of people, and some effective ways are: holding interactive presentations for specific topics, creating a podcast that can appeal to younger and older audiences with many games such as guess the bird call, or guess that animal by the description, guided hikes are also a good tool to pique the interest of the more outdoorsy type of person, and sometimes even simple blogs like this one is an effective tool for getting ideas across to a very significant amount of different people. I know from personal experience that the two most effective ways to reach me with different information is an interactive presentation, or a guided hike. These two speak to me the most because I find them the most useful for engaging people. Guided hikes are a very nice way of exploring the wilderness because not only do you get to be out in nature, but you are able to hear the backstories of all the caves, rock formations, or anything that you may come across during the hike. However, each person has a different way of engaging with nature.

That’s all I have on my mind for now, and I hope everyone enjoyed my thoughts this time, and I hope you have all enjoyed my previous posts too! I had a wonderful time sharing my opinions and thoughts over the past months. I am looking forward to everyone's replies and ideas of their own. 

Beck, L., Cable, T.T., and Knudson, D.M. (2018). Interpreting cultural and natural heritage: For a Better World. Sagamore Publishing. 

Boeckel, J.v. (2015). At the heart of art and earth: an exploration of practices in arts-based environmental education. Envir. Edu. Research. 21 (5), 801-802. https://doi-org.subzero.lib.uoguelph.ca/10.1080/13504622.2014.959474

Hooykaas, A. (2024). Unit 10: Nature Interpretation’s Role in Environmental Sustainability. University of Guelph. https://courselink.uoguelph.ca/d2l/le/content/858004/viewContent/3640024/View.

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Hello! 

Thank you for sharing more about your beliefs as a nature interpreter. I loved looking at some of the photos you’ve shared and think that it truly speaks volumes to the beauty in our environment that can be found through such simple forms. I myself have never seen a beaver dam and believe that this is such a phenomenal act to have caught on camera! I also agree with the point you’ve made about it being our responsibility as nature interpreters to try and get others to look at things in a different light. This particular applies to areas such as climate change and sustainability which are often not considered important by many that lack crucial knowledge about the environment and our surroundings. I think that by advocating for the preservation of our environment as well as sharing the beauty of nature around us we can help spread knowledge to others on a larger scale. The delivery of knowledge as nature interpreters is one that can be taken through a multitude of approaches and is effective at reaching a diverse number of audiences. I too appreciate going on guided hikes as I often feel it allows me to look at a landscape from a different perspective. I am able to gain a new perspective on an area while also appreciating components that I have come across on other trails or nearby areas that are familiar to me. Overall, there are many approaches we as interpreters can take to get our points across.

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Final Post! My reflection as an interpreter

This course provided me with the opportunities to learn about various learning styles and methods of interpretation, giving me the tools to discover who I am as a nature interpreter (Hooykaas, 2024). My approach as an individual comes from the desire to evoke emotional responses through interpretation, whether that be through art or through teaching scientific concepts (Beck et al. 2018, p.44). Looking back to my second blog post, I described my ideal role as an interpreter being a professor. I still resonate with this role, but the idea of interpretation in less of a directly-academic setting has crossed my mind. I still believe that my ideology of presenting scientific information in a setting for open conversation is most suitable to me. Through this open line of communication surrounding scientific topics, it can open a listener to care about things such as plant nutrients or global warming, to lead them to caring for these topics in day-to-day life (Beck et al. 2018, p.60). In addition to interpretation through speaking, I have realised that my learning styles being tactile/visual really reflects in my art (Hooykaas, 2024). I explained my connection to art and nature interpretation previously in my blog, and I have always known that nature has inspired me to create throughout my life. My art provides me with another outlet to showcase nature interpretation in a physical way that can provoke viewers to ask questions and get curious about nature (Beck et al. 2018, p.229). 

Through these two very different paths of interpretation, the responsibilities I uphold are to stay true to my passions and to state unbiased, clear information to my listeners. Staying true to my passions is important for both art and scientific interpretation. If I were to deviate from art that makes me feel fulfilled and from science that applies to concepts I care about it wouldn’t be me. This is a responsibility I have to myself as an individual, and without the passions that drive me to be curious about nature, I would have no role as an interpreter at all. Stating unbiased and clear information is especially true if I am to pursue a professorship in academia. It is a responsibility to pass on information that is factually true so that others can interpret their own opinions off it. Topics that come to mind regarding this include GMO information as well as the various methods of combating climate change. Fulfilling this responsibility can be done through constantly learning, maintaining professionalism, and developing various skill sets to be a credible interpreter (Beck et al. 2018, p.378).

The belief that I feel defines me as an interpreter is that nature is the greatest teacher in balance. When a tree falls, it creates a space for insects and small animals to burrow under, it gives life to fungi and moss, it creates an entirely new ecosystem of life through death. A quote that connects to this belief is “Often the scene interprets itself, so interpreters need not impose.” (Beck et al. 2018, p. 83). I really resonate with this quote because through observing the natural order of life, you learn so many concepts that you can apply without doing anything but taking it all in. On a more cellular level, learning about homeostasis and how plants create antioxidants to keep themselves healthy is applied to human concepts of health constantly. Being taught to eat blueberries as a kid because of their antioxidant potentials, drinking peppermint tea to soothe inflammation in the stomach, health concepts that were learned from nature. I believe that through observing the natural science of life, order can be brought to my own life, and it is a goal to share my interpretation of these instances with others. 

All in all, my ethics as an interpreter lay in being truthful, kind, and curious. I also want to remain aware of the privileges I hold in life, and to attribute credit to those who made my interests available to me. As an interpreter, it is important to me to share the truth with all who listen, even if that truth is ugly. I will share the truth about food processing, land colonisation, and inaccuracy of government regulations where it is due. Learning about the beauties of nature is never without the unfortunate facts that may lay underneath the information. Another area of ethics I feel very strongly about is being mindful of each person’s struggles throughout life. This concept is more for the scenario of me as a professor. I have always had the goal of creating an atmosphere built on actually processing and caring about the information learned, not regurgitating facts to fulfil a standard test. I have had many struggles out of my control throughout my university experience, and while some professors have helped, many haven’t. It is a goal of mine to never be like those people. I want to be able to help students who care about succeeding even when life deals them a bad card, something I wish that could have been done for me. This is a large basis of my ethics as an interpreter, and it drives me forward to reach my goals. 

It is bitter-sweet that this is my last post, as I have never had an outlet to share my thoughts on nature in a way like this. It has been very interesting to question areas of interpretation that I had never thought of before, and it has helped me reflect on where I see myself going in the future. I look forward to seeing how all your final posts summarise you as an individual interpreter! Enjoy some photos of nature to end this blog off :)

Alleeya 

Beck, L., Cable, T. T., & Knudson, D. M. (2018). Interpreting Cultural and Natural Heritage: For a Better World. Sagamore Publishing LLC. 

Hooykaas, A. (2024). Nature interpretation. https://courselink.uoguelph.ca/d2l/le/content/858004/Home

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Hello!

Thank you for sharing. I agree with the points that you’ve made about nature interpretation having two different sides to it, including that of the artistic component as well as the scientific component. I believe that as interpreters it is important to acknowledge both sides as we are constantly learning and discovering more about nature from various angles. I also love the metaphor you have used about nature being the greatest teacher of balance. I resonate with the statement as I feel that Mother Nature often works to keep things in balance. When this balance is disrupted we often see the effects of it in our everyday lives. This varies from things such as changes in our expected weather to issues on a greater scale including that of natural disasters. I think it's amazing that you hope to pursue nature interpretation through the role of a professor! I think you’re right on track to being able to pursue such research and share it with others in a way that is truthful, informative and artistic. All of which helps us to better understand nature in its true form. Moreover, I feel that this will give others a more holistic understanding of what nature truly is as it encourages them to look at the concept in a variety of different forms that they may not have previously considered. I hope that we as interpreters are able to continue sharing aspects of our world from various lenses and educating those around us on the importance of caring for nature and all that encompasses our environment.

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Unit 10: Nature Interpretation and Sustainability

As a nature interpreter, it is my responsibility to treat nature with respect and care when making my observations. Firstly, my values as an individual are what assist me in my ability to make decisions. As someone who has spent much time in nature, I feel that I have seen my fair share of nature being disrespected and uncared for. This is particularly true when looking at areas nearby me. I believe it is important that we treat nature with empathy and understanding (Beck et al. 2019, Chapter 10). I often see people who have littered in nearby open spaces, have cut down trees to make more room for infrastructure and hunt animals recreationally (Hooyokas, n.d). Each of these reasons serves as a further reminder that it is important we work to protect our environment in its entirety as these habits deteriorate our natural environment (Hooyokas, n.d). 

It is my responsibility to preserve nature when making my observations. When out in the fields I always ensure to look rather than touch or remove things from their environment (Hooyokas, n.d). For example, when I was in a first-year biology course, we were asked to go out and document squirrels' behaviours. When carrying out this task, I made sure to keep the homes of these squirrels intact by leaving their nests and food stashes in place. I continued to keep notes and take photos while maintaining a safe distance to allow the squirrel's habitats to remain maintained. In addition to this, as a nature interpreter, I work to act as a silent observer. To me, this means that I work to take in the environment at a slow and steady pace. I take mental note of surrounding features such as the sound of the wind or the movement of plants seeds and fruits in order to help me better understand the movement and behaviours of animals in their habitats. Moreover, this helps me better identify any changes that could be disrupting these patterns. This is evident when looking at areas where trees have been cut down or in places that have fewer areas of higher ground. For this reason, I believe it is imperative that we work towards keeping such elements intact. 

When examining my beliefs I feel that I am someone who greatly emphasizes the importance of appreciating the environment. I make sure to do this by providing care and support to plants around me as that works to nurture other aspects of nature. This helps to ensure that there are great levels of diversity in our flora and fauna. This helps contribute to a healthy and sustainable ecosystem as food chains are able to thrive. Nature interpretation plays a huge role in mental health. (Beck et al. 2019, Chapter 3). I also enjoy spending time in nature as a form of a mental health break as I often find it helps me feel at peace. Particularly, I often do this during midterm and exam season as I feel that it serves as a good break and helps me to refocus after a long day. I do this by taking walks by the forest near my home or by sitting by our local pond. The sounds of the water as well as that of the birds chirping and rustling of animals in the bushes help me feel as though I am more connected to my surroundings. This gives me the opportunity to get away from my busy schedule and get my mind off of the work that I have. I often work to engage in nature interpretation by taking photographs I enjoy being able to reflect back on the moments I have spent in various environments. Moreover, it allows me to share my love for the environment with others. It allows me to share the beauty of natural landscapes through my own lens. 

When looking at my personal approach to nature interpretation I work to incorporate my passion for the environment into aspects of my everyday life. I am someone who loves gardening and plants. I myself have many indoor plants that I like to tend to. In addition to this, I keep an outdoor garden in my backyard full of various plants, including fruits and vegetables. I feel that this hobby allows me to have better control over incorporating healthy foods into my diet. Moreover, it acts as a way of spending quality time with my family. We all enjoy gardening and are able to do so together in the summers while incorporating quality time in nature. I think this is a unique way of appreciating nature as gardening allows us to watch aspects of nature transform and evolve. It shows us that nature is fluid and constantly changing. It reminds us that there are so many forms of life in nature without us realizing it. It encourages me to get in touch with nature through an active role. Another approach I like to take includes that of being in touch with nature. The act of laying out on the grass or swimming in nearby waters allows me to feel physically in tune with the environment 

Nature interpretation itself is a very broad field that works to describe both the intricacies and complexities of the world around us through our observations. This course has allowed me to better understand what it means to be an interpreter while also examining nature through differing lenses of interpretation itself. By ensuring that the respect and integrity of our environment are maintained I believe that I have gained a richer experience when out in the fields. In addition to this, by attempting to take on a multitude of approaches I feel that I have been able to develop an appreciation for nature and help protect it from some of the dangers it faces in our society today.  Overall, much of what we see can be appreciated as well as presented in various forms.

References

Beck, L., Cable, T.T., and Knudson, D.M. (2018). Interpreting cultural and natural heritage: For a Better World. Sagamore

Publishing. Hooykaas, A. (2024). Unit 10: Nature Interpretation’s Role in Environmental Sustainability. University of Guelph.

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The Enchanting World of Bioluminescence!

Hi friends!!

Welcome back to another week of blogging… I can’t believe this is the 9th week of blogging! Time really does fly. 

Today I am going to introduce you all to the captivating and mesmorizing world of Bioluminescence! I remember learning about this in a documentary after seeing photos online of bioluminescent beaches and it is one of the most fascinating phenomenons ever! 

To begin, picture this: a moonless night, the ocean gently lapping at the shore, and suddenly, the water bursts into a mesmerizing display of ethereal blue-green light. This is not a scene from a sci-fi movie; it's the magical world of bioluminescence! Bioluminescence is the ability of living organisms to produce light and can be encountered in summer evenings from the flickering lights of fireflies, or in the depths of the ocean from bacteria and sharks (NOAA, 2017). 

What truly sets bioluminescence apart is its sheer beauty and versatility. From attracting mates, luring in prey, communicating with fellow organisms or warding off predators, bioluminescence serves a variety of purposes in the natural world (National Geographic, n.d). For example, the vampire squid uses this as a defensive behaviour as instead of ejecting dark ink to defend against predators, they instead eject sticky bioluminescent mucus which can confuse and delay predators (National Geographic, n.d). Additionally, another really cool theory is that some biologists theorize that some species who are not bioluminescent themselves, take advantage of species that are. For example, a sperm whale might surround itself with bioluminescent plankton in order to eat fish who are the planktons predators as their glowing alerts the whale that fish are nearby (National Geographic, n.d). It is so fascinating to me how the language of light can work in such enticing ways. 

So, the next time you find yourself under the starry night sky or lurking out into the ocean, remember the hidden world of bioluminescense that lies just beyond our sight. It’s a good reminder that even in the darkest corners of the Earth, there is still light to be seen, illuminating the beauty of the world around us.

To end this blog, I wanted to leave you with a question to ponder... in what ways can we draw inspiration from nature's ability to illuminate even the darkest of places within our own lives? What is the hidden symbolism here?

Thanks for reading and looking forward to hearing back!!!

Natalie

Works Cited

NOAA. (2017). What is bioluminescence? National Ocean Service. https://oceanservice.noaa.gov/facts/biolum.html

National Geographic. (n.d). Bioluminescence is light emitted by living things through chemical reactions in their bodies. National Geographic Education. https://education.nationalgeographic.org/resource/bioluminescence/

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Hello!

Thank you for sharing more about bioluminesence. I enjoyed learning more about the process and how it works! I too find such processes fascinating and decided to share more about metamorphosis. I think it is cool that bioluminescence is created through the use of chemical reactions including the release of oxygen as well as the use of luciferin and luciferase. There are so many chemical reactions that take place in us as living beings it is wonderful being able to study them and seeing them put into practice. Especially in cases of bioluminescence which is so visual, I think this is very similar to that of metamorphosis which involves such a vibrant change in colours from caterpillars to bright orange that is characteristic of monarch butterflies. I remember seeing fireflies for the first time and being astonished by the fact that I could see them flickering within the night sky. I also did not know that it is used as a safety feature that can be used to ward off predators or used in mating processes. I find it interesting that the production of this light is so multifaceted and can be used in a variety of ways. Overall I think there are so many different processes that can affect the way that animals live as well as how they carry out aspects of their lives. I enjoyed the video you shared as well and found it a great example of how bioluminescence works as some great depictions of it. 

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Unit 09: Sense Making of Nature Interpretation

There are many incredible aspects of nature that we see in our everyday lives. One of the most fascinating aspects of nature that I have witnessed is the process of metamorphosis in butterflies. I remember when I was in first grade, my class raised caterpillars with the hopes of watching them grow into monarch butterflies. I think the process itself is so captivating and truly reminds us of how beautifully complex and intricate nature is.  The process consists of four different stages. The first one starts with an egg being formed. It is then followed by a larva being formed. This egg typically takes anywhere between 4-5 days to hatch but can take up to three weeks (Beck et al, 2018). We then see caterpillars enter the larvae stage as they are released from their eggs  (Beck et al, 2018). They then use this time to eat important nutrients and begin forming an exoskeleton that will eventually encase them as they develop  (Beck et al, 2018). The exoskeleton sheds many times before finally encasing the larvae allowing for the beginning of its transition  (Beck et al, 2018). The caterpillar will then undergo its pupa stage where it forms a chrysalis and eventually turns into a butterfly  (Beck et al, 2018).  The process by which we see one species transition into another serves as a reminder that there is so much we are still learning about nature, animals and the environment. I will never forget the moment that I witnessed by caterpillar break out of its cocoon into a beautiful monarch butterfly. Its wings spread out into a stark bright orange with black stripes before taking off into the nearby forest.  This too brought upon an interest in forestry areas and all that there is within them.  Forests themselves contain many different plants, sources of food and drink as well as different forms of wildlife that can be observed when inside. They act as a place that serves as a landscape, a home to various species as well as a tourist attraction to visitors unfamiliar to the area. There is so much to be seen, even in smaller forests closer to home. One of my favourite discoveries included that of leaves in the fall which I would often collect dry leaves in scrapbooks to look back at all of the various kinds that are near me. I would often go out into parks or in my backyard after school and look for leaves in various colours, shapes, and sizes. I would use this as a time to bond with friends as we would all often go out and look for leaves together. I cherished this time and look back at it fondly. Moreover, it was a great way to get physical activity and fresh air while also learning something new. Ultimately, I believe that there are so many wonderful aspects of nature that can be seen all around us. Whether that be small critters living in areas close to home or out in large forests there is so much to discover out in the field that teaches us more about the world around us. 

ReferencesBeck, Larry, et al. Interpreting Cultural and Natural Heritage: For A Better World. Sagamore Venture, 2018.

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Finding Music in Nature

Hey everyone, welcome back:) This week I am going to dive into analyzing nature interpretation through music.

Where is music in nature? I think in order to answer this question we must first understand what defines music to be considered music. The Oxford dictionary defines music as “the art of combining various sounds to produce beauty of form, harmony, and expression of emotion” and this ties nicely with Gray, P. et al (2001) definition; music can evoke “emotional, social, cultural, and cognitive responses from patterns of sound varying in pitch and time”. I think the main takeaway from these two definitions shows how music is simply any form of frequency loud enough to be heard, that in some way or not elicits some type of emotional response. This thought can be backed up from the thoughts of Silene (2021), who states, “when we hear music we first get a feeling and then thoughts''. When I first read that quote, it made me realize how true it was and how many times that happens to me when I’m in nature. And so, I think music in nature is found in any audible frequencies whether that be leaves blowing in the wind, the sound of rain hitting the floor, or the abundance of wildlife calling throughout the night, that makes you conscious take time out of your day to pause and listen; to feel before you think. 

A well-timed hike and bright sunshine = listening to the amazing sounds of lake trout splashing their way up stream

Where is nature in music? Similar to many factors of life, I believe nature is a precursor for the creation of music. The latter can not be perceived until the former creates tangible vessels for which the latter can be heard from. This thought can be explained from a more literal standpoint to a subjective one, i.e., music without words could not have been created without the tangible resources of nature (literally). While subjectively, nature provides inspiration of sounds that can be translated through an instrument or voice. Gray, P. et al (2001) references how closely tied a modern-day orchestra is to the ambient sounds of an environment; “the voice of each creature (or flora) has its own frequency, amplitude and duration…to which occupies a unique niche among other musicians”. I think this quote sums up nicely how nature is found in music, each organism is its own unique instrument, some can be grouped together but have different pitches and forms, similar to the plethora of brass instruments producing different pitches and sounds, such as baritones and trumpets.

While speaking of nature and music, I can’t help but think of times when music has enhanced my own experience with nature. One song that immediately pops into my mind when I think of being immersed in nature is “Pure Imagination” sung by Gene Wilder. At first glance, the song does not necessarily reference nature, but it is the context of where I listened to it that matters. It was on a warm summer's night, accompanied by four of my closest friends, lying down under a flowering crabapple tree at 2am in the morning. The combination of my environment just transformed my experience listening to this song. Feelings of nostalgia, being a kid again, not having a worry in the world but focusing on the warm summer air and the fragrant perfumes of the crabapple flowers. I will forever remember that feeling of pure bliss as the music and ground coarse through my body. 

References:

Gray, P. M., Krause, B., Atema, J., Payne, R., Krumhansl, C., & Baptista, L. (2001). The Music of Nature and the Nature of Music. Science, 291(5501), 52. https://link-gale-com.subzero.lib.uoguelph.ca/apps/doc/A69270354/AONE?u=guel77241&sid=bookmark-AONE&xid=fb9366a8

Hooykaas, A. (2024). Unit 7: Nature interpretation through music. University of Guelph. https://courselink.uoguelph.ca/d2l/le/content/858004/viewContent/3640021/View

Oxford languages and google - english. Oxford Languages. (n.d.). https://languages.oup.com/google-dictionary-en/

Silene, A. (2021, February 20). Spiritual values of protected areas of Europe: Workshop proceedings. [pages 129-132] https://www.silene.ong/en/documentation-centre/spiritual-values-of-protected-areas-of-europe-workshop-proceedings#Proceedings_Spiritual%20Values_PAs_Europe.pdf

[tkaur09envs3000]

Hi Evan,

Thanks for sharing! That is a beautiful video that perfectly captures the intricacies of nature. I agree with many of the points you made and think that the quote holds a lot of meaning. We often can feel a variety of emotions when listening to music. This applies to nature as well. Whenever I am out in the rain I too feel a sense of peace and calmness washing over me. I feel that this truly illustrates the power that nature has in creating music of its own. It creates its own songs that are open for us interpreters to enjoy. Classical music is a powerful comparison to the ways in which nature is able to create its own sense of music. I think that classical music in particular resembles the elements of nature coming together to create art. The sounds of wind instruments can mimic that of the wind blowing and drops of rain falling from the sky. One of my favourite classical songs is Fur Elise by Beethoven. I think the lulls and slow melody of the songs represent the calmness before a storm. It is strongly associated with such a song in my memory as I spent many rainy afternoons when I was younger playing the piano to my favourite classical tunes. Beethoven has many complex pieces that accurately convey the emotions of different climates of nature. Moreover, I completely agree with the point you've made about our experiences shaping our associations with songs. I too have many songs of nostalgia, that although do not directly relate to nature and the environment, remind me of my own experiences.

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Unit 07: Nature Interpretation Through Music

Music in nature takes on a variety of different forms. Communication between animals is one of the most common forms of music in our surrounding environment. Sounds such as bird chirps and bear growls encourage contact between animals. This in turn provides them with the ability to travel long distances together and hide out from predators. These sounds also allow us as nature interpreters to better connect with species that are in the wild. We see this with many bird call experts who often mimic sounds created by different kinds of birds to bring them out of hiding. We can also argue that the sounds produced by animal species can be turned into music itself. Ben Mirin, an acoustic biologist used these techniques in nature to create songs out of bird calls. In addition to this, music in nature can be produced by the environment (Hooyokas, 2023). This includes the sounds of water rushing through lakes and leaves rustling in the wind. These sounds often bring a sense of peace and tranquillity, and allow us to take in our surroundings. An influential role model I had who encouraged me to interpret such sounds was my grade eight elementary school teacher. She brought us to the park one afternoon and told us to take the hour and write down all of our observations along with any animals, plants and sounds we came across. Through this activity, I became aware of many of the sounds that are produced in the absence of animals and began to develop a newfound appreciation for them. I was able to hear the sounds of squirrels scurrying through the bushes and the wind blowing through the dense forest. I developed a newfound appreciation for nature and each of its elements. I realized that these are things we often overlook and sometimes don’t attribute to a form of art  It made me recognize that music is everywhere, even in the places we least expect it. When looking at the idea of nature in music, I believe it is present in any space where we can enjoy music. Whether it be through a playlist at the beach while watching a sunset or around a campfire with friends and family, being present in nature allows us to slow down and take in our surroundings. The use of music during these times further encourages us to associate positive memories with these connections. A favourite song of mine that allows me to find nature in music is “What a Wonderful World” by Louis Armstrong. It is a classic that I have played many times while out at the beach during the summer It helps me develop a sense of gratitude for my surroundings as well as my ability to experience nature in its true form. The lyrics of the songs pinpoint the beauty of nature and things that we often overlook in our everyday lives, and remind listeners to remember the little things. Ultimately, music and nature are heavily intertwined, working hand in hand.

References

Hooykaas, A. (n.d.). Unit 06: Nature Interpretation through Science [Lecture notes]. ENVS3000 Nature Interpretation. University of Guelph.

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Blog 6: How safe are you at work?(Historical interpretation)

In this week’s blog prompt, we were tasked with unpacking the 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.” – Edward Hyams, Chapter 7, The Gifts of Interpretation

Collecting and fixing the broken historical artifact helps discover the knowledge that accompanies the artifact.

I believe that Edward wants to express that historical artifacts and evidence of the past by themselves have no value. However, by collecting these often degraded and broken parts, we can discover a story, lost knowledge, or memory of the past. He also uses a train simile to explain that one cannot ignore the past just because it has already happened. It usually teaches us a lesson that helped us improve to the present. Edward’s use of simile, a figurative language, is like what Alan Leftridge talked about when discussing ‘Interpretive Titles and Leads’ in the assigned reading, chapter 14 of the textbook. This helps the reader better visualize and relate the meaning behind Edward’s statement as most people have ridden a train, allowing them to easily visualize and understand.

Relating this quote back to interpretating history, Edward mentions how learning about past helps discover lost knowledge or warnings. This was also mentioned in this week’s second assigned reading, chapter 15 of the textbook, “Another reason to interpret history is to remember. To remember not only the happy stories of our past, but also the tragic ones”. The textbook goes on to mention historic conflicts and events, but I want to relate this to work safety and OSHA.

There is a common saying in the workforce especially centered around manual labour and heavy equipment: “All safety regulations are written in blood”. This saying wants to drive home the message that all work safety regulations and rules that workers find annoying only exist due to a worker in the past getting seriously hurt by a workplace incident causing preventative measures to be made afterwards. While working daily, it is important to follow safety regulations and rules as YOU might be the next OSHA case that rules are written about to prevent serious injury.

By observing the preventative rules, watching recreated incident videos, and reading case files, a working can paint a picture and gain knowledge of the incident that happened in the past that they can prevent now. This is in my opinion exactly what Edward Hyams was talking about in his quote but in a different circumstance compared to my interpretation.

As someone who has worked in many different warehouses and distribution centers, I am fairly comfortable working around loud heavy machinery and forklifts moving around with their horns blaring. Safety is always important in warehouses as the employers do not want to get sued however, safety incidents still occur. One of the biggest safety rules is always wearing high-visibility clothing in the facility so people operating heavy machinery can notice the employee easily. However, all employees are given the same high-visibility clothing so after a period of time, employees unconsciously start tuning out the high-visibility clothing as they become used to them. This is why the saying “All safety regulations are written in blood” resonates with me, as I believe high visibility acclimatization is going to lead to an incident that will create a new OSHA law sooner rather than later.

[tkaur09envs3000]

Hello!

Thanks for sharing your interpretation of Hyaam’s quote. I think it's a unique perspective on the quote yet one that is incredibly important. As someone who knows people working in factories and distribution centres, I completely agree with the points that you have made. It is imperative that we acknowledge each of the rules set in place by the OHSA, as they are there for a reason. Oftentimes that reason is due to a a tragic incident that has happened in the past in regards to worker safety. This puts great significance on the phrase “ All safety regulations are written in blood.”  I also agree that many people often take on these new rules and almost become used to them, forgetting the safety implications behind them. I think many companies take on this idea that the past is to be forgotten in regard to safety incidents as they attempt to sweep them under the rug.  I have seen this first-hand with friends whose family members worked in poor factory conditions. When looking at this quote with regard to our environment, I too had not previously thought to associate safety in the workplace with nature interpretation and Hyaam’s quote. However, I think it brings up the point that the statement can be applied to a variety of settings and environments and not just in nature, In addition to this, I think in general it really sheds light on the importance of learning from our previous mistakes in an attempt to better ourselves.

[tkaur09envs3000]

Unit 06: Nature Interpretation Through History

Hyams presents an important concept surrounding nature in the following quote. He brings up a critical idea in that our environment has many moving parts that have allowed it to reach this point. I think the quote applies directly to the evolution of our environments. Hyam mentions integrity is what keeps together parts of a whole. Similarly, keeping track of previous changes in an environment, including that of natural disasters, invasive species and urbanization are what contribute to our current environment. This can be applied to many regions of Canada (Better Canada Institute, 2021). When looking back at our history, we see that Canada was typically made up of forestry regions before human development. However, through changes such as an increase in temperature, colonization and the removal of these areas we see that each of these so-called parts of a whole are scattered throughout different periods contributing to different phases of our land’s development. If we were to reflect on the development of Canada and attribute it to one specific period, we would see that it is an incomplete picture as it was created by a culmination of several factors. We must acknowledge every aspect of our history as mentioned by Hyams. Evident as he states “ 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). This allows us to better understand the positive and negative aspects that contribute to the formation of our environment, as well as where it could potentially be headed. In particular, this can be applied to climate change. As time goes on we are beginning to see the effects of climate change around us, however, had we not had a good understanding of what our environment around us is meant to be like by analyzing previous years, we would not have the ability to recognize it. Understanding historical context can also add a lot of meaning to people's perspectives of an area (Hookyoas, Unit 06). According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), the year 2023 is one of the warmest years by far (National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 2024). Moreover, the Arctic hit record lows of ice coverage of only 3.79 million square miles (National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 2024). This also contributed to the warming of ocean levels, as the waters have hit record-high temperatures in the last few years, with a record high this year (National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 2024). We are able to recognize the implications of this by looking back at previous trends in temperature as well as looking at what human contributions are responsible for this. By “maintaining” integrity we can look towards how we can stop climate change. For example, looking at lowering our carbon emissions in order to prevent the increased warming of ocean waters. This can be done through things such as walking instead of driving short distances and ensuring that we reuse as opposed to using single-use items such as water bottles and straws. This awareness that we are contributing to climate change emphasizes the importance of acknowledging the past rather than believing it is only a fleeting moment of time as highlighted by Hyaam.

References

Hooykaas, A. (n.d.). Unit 06: Nature Interpretation through Science [Lecture notes]. ENVS3000 Nature Interpretation. University of Guelph.

2023 Was the World’s Warmest Year on Record, by Far | National Oceanic and Atmospheric Association, www.noaa.gov/news/2023-was-worlds-warmest-year-on-record-by-far. Accessed 17 Feb. 2024.

“Impacts of Urbanization - Better Canada Institute.” Better Canada Institute - Better Canada Institute Website, 13 Apr. 2021, bettercanadainstitute.ca/impacts-of-urbanization/.

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05: The ways nature has impacted me? (free prompt)

I believe that spending time in nature offers numerous physical, mental, and emotional benefits. During the summer, I have complete access to nature trails and may spend countless hours outdoors. There may be obstacles such as weather and restricted access to these areas in the winter for our own safety. During the academic year, I attributed my lack of drive to a lack of time spent outside. I find that when I lose motivation, my other positive behaviours fall out of sync. I spend less time exercising, my dietary intake becomes more unhealthy, my sleep schedule becomes disorganized, and I feel inconsistent.  

This year, I decided to take control of my winter, knowing that these changes usually occur during this time of year. I wanted to find strategies to maintain a balanced diet, get enough and high-quality sleep, and have a regular gym regimen while also attending school and maintaining good grades. So I'd like to share some changes I made to my routine to ensure improved habits. 

My first major shift was to devote 30-60 minutes every day to outside activities. Now, I cannot say that I do this every day without fail, but I have been able to do so at least 5 days per week. It helps me to organize my thoughts without having to focus on schoolwork. During this period, I would either softly jog to get some physical activity in or take a walk along the trails in my neighbourhood. I would listen to a podcast, whether it was about amusement, learning, motivation, or self-discipline, to help pass the time. I believe this helped me relieve some of my tension and allowed me to unplug from school.

As we discussed several times throughout the course, the nature trails within the Aboretum made incorporating this practice into my day a breeze. After class, before leaving for home, I take a little walk through the Aboretum to reorganize after a few hours of classes. I sometimes have friends join me, which makes it much more pleasurable because we spend the most of our time on campus together studying. If you don't already, I recommend using the Arboretum to break up your day and get your mind off of school.

I also told myself this year that I would keep a consistent sleep routine. To ensure that I am properly refreshed, I try to get at least 8 hours of sleep each night. Again, are there times when I don't get a complete 8 hours? Of course. However, for the most part, I have been able to prioritize my personal health over academics, and I no longer have to pull all-nighters to complete projects. This has not only allowed me to be properly rested, but it has also taught me how to better manage my time during the day, decrease screen time, and focus on the tasks at hand. 

As a fellow student, I understand how tough it is to maintain healthy habits when there are so many assignments due each week, but it is critical that we remember to take care of ourselves. You may even discover that prioritizing your personal health during the school year has an impact on your academic performance. Can any of you think of a moment when you implemented new habits and saw improvements in your daily life?

[tkaur09envs3000]

I agree with many of the points you’ve made. I think that as students finding that balance between prioritizing our mental health against our academics can often be difficult to find. Oftentimes, we put our mental well-being on the back burner and forget to take care of ourselves. I too have been working towards creating a better work-life balance for myself but often struggle with it as well. I think having a consistent daily routine where you spend some time outdoors is a great way to approach things. I too try and spend some time outdoors when I am stressed to get my mind off of whatever may be troubling me and I find that it helps to clear my mind. I try and go for walks either around my neighbourhood or down the trail near my house to help make myself feel better. I also think it's great that you’ve prioritized getting a full night’s rest. Sleep plays such a critical role in our mental health and makes a difference in the quality of school work and studying we are able to do. By ensuring eight hours of sleep it is definitely much easier to feel at your best and ensure that you are working to the best of your ability. This is something I really try to prioritize as well as I feel that it helps me stay on track and focused throughout the day. I think that going back to the basics and prioritising some of our daily needs is the perfect way to take care of ourselves!

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Unit 5 Nature and Health

Nature has such a profound impact on our mental and physical health. There are many studies that have shown nature plays a role in preventing distress and providing us with an outlet for the stress we encounter in our everyday lives. When examining nature's role in our physical health we see that it can play a role in increased physical activity and time spent outside. According to a study completed by the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, nature exposure leads to increased cognitive function (Jiminez et al, 2021). Moreover, it assists in greater brain activity, blood pressure, mental health and physical activity (Jiminez et al, 2021). Specifically, it is said that individuals who spend more time outdoors experience a decreased risk of cardiovascular disease (Jiminez et al, 2021). The journal monitored the vitals of test subjects when either exposed to virtual images of nature or tested while in various aspects of nature. Subjects whose vitals were taken after such engagement experienced lower cortisol levels and lower blood pressure typically reported (Jiminez et al, 2021). Nature also provides many opportunities for physical activity, including that of going for a walk, a hike or a bike ride in a local forestry area. Each of these activities can help promote some of the effects seen in the study. It has also been proven that those who choose to exercise outdoors typically do so for a longer duration in comparison to those who do indoors (American Psychology Association, 2024). When looking at nature’s effects on mental health, nature provides many cognitive benefits as well. This includes stress reduction as previously mentioned as well as increased attention and memory retention (Schertz and Berman, 2019). When looking at a study conducted by the Journal of International Well-being, students were split up into two test groups to see who had better working memory. One group was first placed in a natural environment, followed by an urban environment  (Schertz and Berman, 2019). The second was placed in a natural environment during both rounds of the experiment  (Schertz and Berman, 2019). It was found that the group that stayed in the natural environment continued to see increased cognitive benefits where the others did not  (Schertz and Berman, 2019). When looking at how nature has an impact on my health, I feel that living in Canada, a country with many forestry green areas has encouraged me to be more physically active, particularly during the summers. I find that having the ability to take some time out of my day and spend it getting fresh air helps put me in a better mood and often makes me feel more focused and ready to start my day. Moreover, I enjoy going on walks during the school year to help alleviate stress. I find that going on short work during midterm and exam seasons helps me clear my mind and allows me to get back to work feeling refreshed. I also find that spending time in nature is a great way to disconnect from technology, I often don’t even realize how much time I spend staring at a screen and taking the time to be outside and enjoy the fresh air helps to provide me with a restful break and take time away from my devices.

References

“Nurtured by Nature.” Monitor on Psychology, American Psychological Association, www.apa.org/monitor/2020/04/nurtured-nature. Accessed 8 Feb. 2024.

Jiminez et al. “ Associations Between Nature Exposure and Health:  A Review of the    Evidence” International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health. April 30 2021

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8125471/Schertz, Kathryn E., and Marc G. Berman. “Understanding nature and its cognitive benefits.” Current Directions in Psychological Science, vol. 28, no. 5, 24 June 2019, pp. 496–502, https://doi.org/10.1177/0963721419854100.

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Privilege in Nature Interpretation

The concept of privilege plays a significant role in shaping individuals' relationships with nature, influencing access and opportunities to engage with the environment, and many other factors in life outside of nature. My working definition of privilege is advantages or opportunities unrelated to personal achievements or abilities but simply due to one’s background, social status and other factors. My definition is similar to the $100 race video in the courselink notes for the week, which highlighted disparities based on factors beyond the students accomplishments and actions.

Growing up in a big city with a single, hardworking mother, my early experiences were marked by limited access to nature. The inability to take time off work for zoo visits or nature excursions was a reality for many from lower-income backgrounds. Economic barriers, as outlined in the textbook, contribute significantly to this limitation (Beck et al, 2018). Additionally, people are faced with other problems, for example not having a car or money to pay entrance fees or food expenses like the textbook mentions (Beck et al, 2018). I remember when I was younger my mom would try to take me to a theme park once a year but I knew that meant I couldn't ask for anything inside because the entrance fee was already expensive. I also knew that we would most likely leave the park for lunch or bring our own food to munch on. Again this isn't the case for everyone but now that I am older I know that I was privileged enough to go as not everyone had that chance. 

Reflecting on my own journey, it wasn't until I moved to Canada that I had the opportunity to travel and explore nature. The privilege of my parents being able to take time off work and afford travel expenses opened up new horizons for me. This newfound ability to explore different places, cultures, and environments played a pivotal role in shaping my character and fostering a love for exploration which some don’t experience ever or until later in life.

The textbook’s emphasis on cultural barriers is also noteworthy. The ethnicity theory suggests that cultural preferences, shaped by factors such as history, family structure, and values, impact participation in outdoor activities (Beck et al, 2018). An example the textbook gave was camping, which might be perceived as an activity reserved for the affluent by urban minorities. This perspective highlights how cultural barriers can influence interpretations of nature-related activities and I can relate to that. Coming from a Hispanic family, we have never been camping, I have but with friends. When I have brought up camping to the family they look at me weirdly as if they could never do that and couldn’t know how. 

Communication barriers, particularly language barriers, further contribute to disparities in nature interpretation. The lack of bilingual interpreters, printed materials, and signs in languages other than English limits access for non-English speakers. The experiences of Hispanic visitors to National Forests in southern California, as discussed in the textbook, exemplify the challenges posed by language barriers. I lived in California for 13 years and go back pretty often and I have never once been to any of the beautiful national forests. I also don't know anyone in my family who has gone especially my family members that don't speak English. Additionally, this past year my aunt was looking to travel abroad and asked me how hard it would be for her as she doesn't know English which shows how limiting this can be.  

The last thing that the textbook talked about that I find extremely important is lack of representation. Personal experiences, such as my grandparents' tendency to visit areas with a larger Hispanic population, reflect a desire for familiarity and comfort. I have also felt a tendency to choose things related to my culture in different aspects of my life. So I wish to be a part of the representation in the Latin community. In conclusion, acknowledging and addressing these barriers is essential for creating inclusive and accessible environments for all individuals to connect with nature.

I am curious to know if any of you have dealt with any barriers in the nature world and how you as a nature interpreter would overcome them.

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

[tkaur09]

Hi Lainey, 

Hi Lainey, 

I enjoyed reading your post! I agree with many of the points you’ve made specifically around those surrounding economic barriers as they play a significant role in our ability to access nature. These limitations often prevent us from sharing experiences with those who have the financial means. I am glad that you now have the opportunity to experience nature in its true form. In addition, I agree that communication barriers can play a role in enjoying nature. Specifically larger tourist attractions for those who aren’t able to speak English. I too have many family members who do not speak English and would have a difficult time experiencing these places without having me there as an interpreter. I feel that this is also the case for many non-English speakers as they too would struggle with the same obstacles. Moreover, I have seen the difference in experiences between those living in first-world countries vs third-world countries first-hand. When speaking to my parents about their experiences with nature growing up I see that it differs greatly from mine. For example, the fact that I am able to swim in lakes and visit beaches without having to worry as much about polluted water or other health hazards. I think that living in Canada plays a crucial part in the way we interact with the natural world. Overall, there are many limiting factors that can prevent us from enjoying nature to the fullest, many of which link back to privilege. Thank you for sharing!

[tkaur09]

Unit 3: Privilege in Nature

When considering the definition of privilege, it can be defined as a special right, advantage, or immunity granted or available only to a particular person or group (Webster, 2024). These advantages can often alter our way of perceiving things as well as  greatly impact how we interpret things. The notion of privilege in an environmental setting allows one to truly connect with nature and the ecosystem around them without a negative connotation behind it. This is especially true for those of the First Nations community (Crampton, 2024). Great landmarks such as Yosemite are considered beautiful parks and attractions for the majority of people however, many us of have had the privilege of living in Canada without having our land stolen from us. We see these parks as an opportunity to better connect with nature and the wilderness around us without taking into account its true origin. To the First Nations community such attractions are often reminders that their home has been taken from them, and used for profit as a tourist attraction. In addition to this, many of us can enjoy a trip to the beach or a visit to the lake by spending time swimming in the fresh waters. However, many who did not have access to swim lessons, as well as a safe environment to learn swimming, may view it in fear as it is an unfamiliar environment to them. The ability to disconnect and enjoy nature in its simplicity is an immense freedom that many may not have. This applies as well to those of lower-income communities who could not grow up in an environment that allowed them to connect with nature in its various forms (Crampton, 2024). Individuals struggling with poverty may not have had opportunities to travel and witness environmental attractions such as large beaches or hike through vast forests. For this reason, they may not feel the same connectivity to nature in these environments that those in a higher class have experienced. When looking at myself, I recognize that I had many opportunities to create positive experiences surrounding nature. I spent my summers in parks with friends and families, collecting leaves off of trees and picking flowers. I also had many opportunities to visit beaches and enjoy the waters by swimming in them. I think each of these experiences has strengthened my relationship with nature and has made me realize that my privilege is what has allowed that. The experience of living in Canada in general has provided me with many opportunities to have exposure to such activities. I realize that my experience with nature for this reason differs greatly from that of my family, who did not have the opportunities that I had due to their financial situations along with the fact that they lived in third-world countries, that did not provide such easy access to nature. Ultimately, each of our previous life experiences differ vastly from one another and greatly contribute to our perception of nature as well as the surrounding environment.

References

Crampton, Liz. “Race and Class Privilege in the Environmental Movement.” News from Pachamama Alliance, 25 Jan. 2024, news.pachamama.org/news/race-and-class-privilege-in-the-environmental-movement.“Privilege Definition & Meaning.” Merriam-Webster, Merriam-Webster, www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/privilege. Accessed 26 Jan. 2024.

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02: Discussing my Dream Job

When considering my ideal role as an environmental interpreter, the first aspect that comes to mind is my preference for doing ‘behind the scenes’ work. As interpreters, one objective is to describe our knowledge to the audience while making it fun and exciting. As someone who is not very good at public speaking, I would ideally let someone else take the lead, especially when the communication is verbal. That said, much more goes into environmental interpretation than just the final delivery.

There are a few roles I would take within environmental interpretation, one of them being conducting field work. I would love to be able to go out into a space of nature and understand the different parts that make up the ecosystem. I would seek information that answers the following questions: What are the prominent tree species? What allows them to grow their best? What organisms are vital to the growth of the specific ecosystem? How might the climate crisis effect this space? Through collecting this information, I would be able to put together a cohesive interpretation of the biological aspects of the ecosystem. Furthermore, I would want to select for the higher quality and more powerful information I gathered to share with the audience, or as described in our textbook, I would try and use ‘The Gift of Precision’ (Beck et al., 2018).

Conducting field work that is accurate and that is of high quality requires a well-rounded set of skills. While there are endless skills that would be beneficial to this role, the ones that stick out to me the most are attention to detail and critical thinking. One would need to have a good eye for the intricate details that come together to form what we call nature. This could include correctly identifying species that look similar, such as the Austrian pine and the red pine. Attention to detail may also include accurately observing animal behaviours, such as not confusing two squirrels for fighting when they are just playing. With the information gathered from having good attention to detail, the next step is to analyze the data and draw conclusions. Using critical thinking skills, one would need to synthesize all the knowledge into a cohesive piece that could subsequently be shared with others. What other skills do you think would be essential to this role?

On the left is an Austrian pine tree needle, and on the right is a red pine tree needle. While there are several ways to distinguish the two trees, bending the needles is common. The Austrian pine will bend, and the red pine will snap.

Ideally, I would begin my endeavours as an environmental interpreter in a space I am familiar with, such as Etobicoke. Once I have mastered the foundational skills, I would be interested in expanding my knowledge to other places around the world. It would be incredible not only to see but also to research areas like Iceland, Australia, Indonesia, and more.

Thank you for reading this week’s post and see you next week,

Kiera

References

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

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Hey Kiera, 

The position you’re trying to pursue does sound like a dream job! Although different from the career I intend to pursue, I found that we shared very similar outlooks to interpreting nature for others. I too am not the biggest fan of public speaking, but that is something I’m working on. Thankfully, I find I speak better to others when I’m passionate about the topic. 

For context, I just finished my program in landscape architecture, and so, my ideal role is tailored to interpreting how the natural environment and the built environment can be mended through thoughtful, sustainable designs. I found it quite interesting how applicable the questions you asked could be suited for so many different careers, including mine; of course, careers that use some form of interpretation as communication. I too have to ask myself: What are the prominent species on this particular site? What opportunities or challenges do I initially see that would benefit or harm newly added species? 

You mentioned how you would prefer to interpret nature through conducting field work; which made me think about how similar that is to one of the first stages of designing any landscape. This phase is known as the “inventory and analysis” phase, and it is essentially what you have described, seeking important, hidden details that allow one to understand the environment they’re working with. To my understanding, this is what our textbook refers to as “Genius loci”; “how distinct an environment (genius) is, illustrates the significance of that place (loci) (Beck et al., 2018). 

I think as an environmental interpreter, this is such an important aspect of knowledge to gain/learn prior to engaging with visitors. As you mentioned, it does take time to get the "eye" for seeing important details; details that could provoke deeper thinking and appreciation, but are lost to visitors passing by because they lack the foundational knowledge to understand the interconnected systems at play. Thanks for sharing, see you next week:)

Side note: Admittingly, I didn't know about that I.D trick for distinguishing Austrian vs Red pine, thank you lol! I won't forget that.

References:

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

[tkaur09]

Hey Kiera, 

Thanks for sharing! You bring up some very interesting points about the role of an environmental interpreter role in regard to fieldwork.I think that fieldwork is a great way to apply many of the skill sets learned in previous biology courses to our everyday lives. In particular, I feel that many of the labs we complete as science students can be beneficial and provide a great foundation for some of the studies you may conduct in the future. Moreover, I feel that the ability to analyze information and curate questions is a great trait to have as an interpreter. As you previously mentioned it allows you to make comparisons between different species of plants and determine whether or not there are any differences of significance. Moreover, asking such questions allows us to reflect on our knowledge and strengthen any gaps that may be there. I also agree that being able to take that information and apply it to a larger scale, such as asking whether or not it plays a role in climate change is important as well. I think that organization would be another important trait that allows for all of your information to remain organized and easy to follow. I think conducting research in other parts of the world would be an incredible opportunity and something that I too find very interesting. Overall, I think you are already on the right track and have many great ideas that would work well in practice, best of luck with your goals!

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Blog 4: Interpret Nature Through Art

Interpreting nature via art has been a transforming experience for me, especially on a recent camping trip to my cottage in the Haliburton area up north. As an interpreter, I've seen that including artistic elements into environmental interpretation improves the whole experience for both myself and others, allowing us to connect deeper with the environment (Dr. Hooykaas, n.d.).

The Haliburton wilderness offered a canvas rich with diverse landscapes, from dense forests to sparkling lakes, providing ample opportunities for exploration and interpretation. Inspired by Aldo Leopold's concept of promoting perception (Beck et al., 2018), I embarked on this camping trip with the intention of helping my friends who came with me to perceive more acutely the wonders of nature around us. Through hikes and storytelling sessions, I aimed to instill a sense of wonder and appreciation for the natural world, encouraging resource preservation (Beck et al., 2018; Dr. Hooykaas, n.d.).

Throughout the camping trip, art was an important part of my interpretive efforts. As we travelled through the harsh terrain, I encouraged my friends to document their experiences through artistic means such as sketching, and photography (Beck et al., 2018). By combining art and science, we were able to discover hidden patterns and detailed features in the terrain, developing a stronger connection with our surroundings.

This relates to documentary on the Group of Seven paintings since it illustrates how art can shape national identity and evoke emotional responses to wilderness (Dr. Hooykaas, n.d.). Despite the absence of human figures in many artworks, they convey powerful narratives about humanity's relationship with nature (Beck et al., 2018). This highlights the importance of art in fostering appreciation for wilderness and conservation efforts.

In terms of interpretive planning, I carefully examined risk management, particularly in an outdoor location like Haliburton ( Dr. Hooykaas, n.d.). I ensured that our camping activities were carried out securely, taking into account potential hazards such as wildlife encounters and bad weather (Beck et al., 2018). By prioritizing participant safety, I was able to create an environment in which everyone felt at ease and engaged in the interpretive experience.

Overall, my camping vacation to the Haliburton area demonstrated the transforming power of nature interpretation through art (Beck et al., 2018; Dr. Hooykaas, n.d.). By promoting perception, including artistic elements, and efficiently managing hazards, I was able to create a meaningful and enjoyable experience for myself and my fellow campers, establishing a stronger connection to the natural environment.

This experience confirmed my view in the value of nature interpretation in developing respect, stewardship, and a sense of belonging to the environment. It emphasized the role of art in portraying nature's beauty and relevance, as well as the value of incorporating multisensory experiences to engage various audiences in meaningful ways. As an interpreter, I am dedicated to further exploring and sharing the beauty of the natural world through art and narrative, motivating others to connect with and safeguard our planet's unique resources.

References:

Beck, L., Cable, T. T., & Knudson, D. M. (2018). Interpreting Cultural and Natural Heritage for a Better World (1st ed.). Sagamore Publishing. https://www.sagamorepub.com/products/interpreting-cultural-and-natural-heritage-better-world

Hooykaas, A. (n.d.). Unit 04: Nature Interpretation through Art and Planning for "All" Scenarios [Lecture notes]. ENVS3000 Nature Interpretation. University of Guelph.

[tkaur09envs3000]

Hi Vanessa, 

I enjoyed reading your blog post. I see that many of the points you’ve resonated with my experience in interpreting nature through art. I haven’t been to Haliburton but it looks like a beautiful park! I hope I can visit one day.  It seems like the perfect place to interpret nature as a form of art. I’m sure that the use of sketches accurately captured the beauty and details of the environment. I too like to have memories of the places that I have visited and often take pictures of the area I am visiting to look back on them. I think it's a nice token that reminds us of how powerful nature is at creating beauty.  When looking at some of the pieces produced by the group of seven, I agree that their ability to convey our relationship with nature is powerful. Many of their art pieces allow observers to feel as though they have been in that environment before. The use of colours and shadows accurately illustrates the complexity of nature along with our interpretation of it.  When looking at my role as a nature interpreter I value observing the environment around me. I enjoy listening to the sounds of water roaring and leaves dancing in the wind. It makes for its own kind of “music” that I enjoy listening to. Moreover, I love being able to watch things such as sunsets or leaves as they change colour, as it almost feels as though I am watching a painting come to life.  I am glad your time in nature has helped you experience this as well!

[tkaur09envs3000]

Unit 4: Interpreting Nature through Art

Art can be used to mimic nature. We use art as a medium that helps us express the beauty of the environment around us. It can be used as a form of symbolism and allow us to illustrate hidden meaning in our work. It encourages others to recognise the depth behind our work. The use of different techniques to paint aspects such as forests, large bodies of water, and land allows us to better visualize the aspects of nature. The act of creating art in nature allows us to better connect with our surroundings. Many people often take up the act of painting or creating art in parks as it allows them to better appreciate the beauty behind the work that they are creating. For example, painting a river during an afternoon at the park. When looking at who I am to interpret art I see myself as an observer (Beck et al 2018). I often silently bear witness to my surroundings and work to appreciate nature I can appreciate the feelings of warmth and joy looking at a sunset or the feelings of isolation that standing in a field during the cold harsh winter brings. A group that is particularly good at bringing out emotions in artwork, as mentioned in the unit readings is the group of seven. One of my favourite pieces done by them is that of Northern Lights, painted by Tom Thompson (Group of Seven, 2022).  The piece itself (shown below) is one of simplicity.

Its use of only a few colours can beautifully depict the complexity of the northern lights. The trees in the far corner provide a stark contrast to the bright lights that allow the audience to picture a dark night illuminated with the colours of this phenomenon. Another beautiful piece includes that of Edwin Holgate, who painted the pool very accurately and depicted the details and feelings associated with the cold Canadian winters (Group of Seven, 2022). When looking at how I personally interpret the gift of beauty I believe that it is my job to treat nature with respect and responsibility to ensure that the surrounding environment remains intact. I also believe that this allows for nature to be observed by various groups. In addition to this, peacemaking plays an important role in nature observation (Beck et al 2018).  It encourages us to be gentle with aspects of nature such as the land, plants, animals, and bodies of water. For example, being mindful of polluting the environment and making sure that we try and leave our environments in their original state. I feel as though each of those traits encourages us to view nature as a piece of “artwork.” Ultimately, nature can be interpreted and used as a part of various different art forms. Paintings and drawings can accurately capture the uniqueness of these settings.  Moreover, we can witness art in its true form by observing natural processes such as sunrises or sunsets. Overall, each of these ways whether that be us actively creating art inspired by nature as well as observing nature’s own art makes us better interpreters. 

Who are you to interpret nature through art? How do you interpret “the gift of beauty”? (Your readings – specifically Chapter 5 of the textbook – will be helpful for this!)

Beck, L., Cable, T. T., & Knudson, D. M. (2018). Arts in Interpretation. In Interpreting cultural and natural heritage: For a Better World (pp. 215–232). essay, SAGAMORE Publishing.  “Canadian Landscape Painters from 1920 to 1933.” The Group of Seven, 22 June 2022, thegroupofseven.ca/.