New class forming for fans of nature

Attention bug lovers and tree admirers, the El Camino Real chapter of Texas Master Naturalist is forming a class for anyone interested in becoming a citizen scientist. The organization is sponsored by the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department and the Texas A & M AgriLife Extension service. 

Master Naturalists explore nature on both private lands and public properties around the state.   

They participate in archaeology, wildlife and fisheries improvement projects, bird surveys, native vegetation plantings, public park renovations, insect and wildflower surveys, and much more.   

By joining you will include yourself in a group of people that enjoy the natural world and work together to improve the wild places in Milam County and across the State of Texas.   

Our membership ranges across the age spectrum and our monthly meetings are times of fellowship and sharing our interests in the natural world.    

You will make many new friends that enjoy the rivers and lakes, that spend time in the woods and fields, are avid birders, and have a passion for the living things and natural history of Texas.

A few months of weekly study meetings (no tests) are required to be on your way to helping the state scientists do their jobs and teaching others about Texas nature.

The deadline is Jan. 13. To register or ask questions, you may contact Kathy Lester, class coordinator, at (254) 654-8770 by calling or texting, or you can email her at majkathy@aol.com . If you’d like more information, go to web page www.txmn.org/elcamino/organization/how-to-join . 

If you love nature and want to learn more through programs, volunteer work and self-study, becoming a Texas Master Naturalist is for you!