Lakehead University has partnered with Ontario Nature to develop a new program to recognize the knowledge and commitment of naturalists in Ontario through the designation of Master Naturalist.

The first of its kind in Canada, the Ontario Master Naturalist Program (OMNP) will provide a unique training opportunity to enhance the skills, knowledge and effectiveness of naturalists and those interested in environmental stewardship. The program will be launched in May and involves a 6-module course of in-class instruction, fieldwork and volunteer commitment.

A steering committee chaired by Bob Bowles, award-winning naturalist and Lakehead University’s 2014 Civitas Award recipient, has designed the program, which will be taught by Lakehead professors and other experts in ecology.

Members of the media are invited to meet members of the committee, learn more about this first-of-its-kind program, and witness the signing of an official Memorandum of Understanding for the initiative between Lakehead University and Ontario Nature.

Event: Ontario Master Naturalist Program (OMNP) LAUNCH
When: Monday, February 9, 2015, 11:00 am
Where: Lakehead University Orillia, 500 University Avenue, Room OA2017, Simcoe Hall
Who: Dr. Kim Fedderson, Lakehead Orillia Dean & Vice Provost; Caroline Schultz, Executive Director,
Ontario Nature; and members of the OMNP Steering Committee

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For more information, please contact:

Kathy Hunt
Communications Officer
705-330-4008 ext. 2014
kjhunt3@lakeheadu.ca

John Hassell
Communications Manager, Ontario Nature
416-444-8419 ext. 269
416-786-2171 (Cell)
johnh@ontarionature.org