The Junior Master Naturalist program...

Through a partnership with Charleston County Parks and Recreation, the Coastal Master Naturalist Association was able to offer students from E. B. Ellington Elementary School in Ravenel the opportunity to participate in the Junior Naturalist Program. On March 4th, students were transported to Caw Caw Interpretive Center after school where they began a multi sensory educational program one day a week consisting of a variety of fun, nature based learning activities. Topics during this five week program ranged from learning about and exploring nature in and around the forest, wetlands, ponds, and how to spot evidence of animals even when they can’t be seen. These learning goals were achieved through a variety of hands-on activities and nature rambles on the trails at Caw Caw.

Generous donations made by members of the Coastal Master Naturalist Association made it possible for these students to participate in this valuable educational experience. The Awards and Charitable Donations Committee facilitated a scholarship for thirteen students, including nature journals for them to record observations and document new learning discoveries. Upon program completion in April, they will graduate and become Certified Junior Naturalists. This opportunity will hopefully ignite a spark within them to continue learning about all the environments in the Lowcountry and develop an appreciation for the natural resources in South Carolina.