Delaware Master Naturalist Jamboree builds naturalist skills and strengthens the network (2024)
Delaware Master Naturalist Jamboree builds naturalist skills and strengthens the network (2024)
Written by: Blake Moore, Extension Agent, Natural Resources
RELEVANCE
Delaware's natural lands have drastically changed due to anthropogenic activities since colonization. Approximately 33% of animal species in the U.S. are at elevated risk of extinction, according to the Heinz Center for Science Economics and the Environment. The Delaware Wildlife Action Plan shows the taxonomic groups with the highest Regional Species of Greatest Conservation Concern for the northeast, which are: amphibians (40%), reptiles (39%), and tiger beetles (39%). Delaware Master Naturalists (DMNs) aims to give back to Delaware’s natural lands, and with continued training and community building, the program will work to protect and enhance Delaware ecosystems.
RESPONSE
The Delaware Master Naturalist core training creates and strengthens the knowledge foundation for Delaware natural history and conservation efforts. The Delaware Master Naturalist Jamboree gathers certified Delaware Master Naturalists from across the state for a day of learning and networking. Each year, Jamboree speakers provide training on topics including interpretation, nature photography, invasive plant management, and wildlife rehabilitation. Networking and team-building sessions inspire DMNs to connect for collaborative projects. In 2024, there were over 50 DMNs who gathered at Killens Pond State Park.
RESULTS
DMNs gained knowledge in nature photography, which helps them document what they see and share it with stakeholders. DMNs gained knowledge in interpretive skills and practices, nature journaling, wildlife rehabilitation and invasive plant management, and utilizing apps for naturalists. DMNs learned about Delaware geology, which taught why the land looks the way it does and why flora and fauna is found where it currently is.
To build community, a team building session included speed dating and lightning brainstorming sessions. Attendees were satisfied with the session and the results of the brainstorming session will be used for project delivery.
There were 20 respondents out of 51 attendees. Sessions were concurrent so not all attendees attended all sessions.
Topic |
Responses (gained knowledge) |
Viewed Differently: A Session on Photography - Mike Parry |
89% |
Employing Interpretive Skills and Practices: An Introduction to Interpretation - Jay Mengel |
100% |
Documenting the World We See: Nature Journaling - Marty Lampner |
83% |
Apps and Tools for Naturalists - Suzanne Herel |
90% |
Challenges to Preserving Native Wildlife - Jean Taylor |
100% |
Geology of Delaware - Scott Wilkinson |
100% |
Invasive Plants - Blake Moore |
100% |
One Delaware Master Naturalist said, "I will start using my camera more often … I’m doing more research on invasives. Hearing about the rescue procedures and work being done is inspiring.” Another participant shared, "I will definitely use the invasive plants knowledge. I volunteer at a preserve with very limited staff so it’s good for me to be able to spot invasive species and let them know."
RECOGNITION
The University of Delaware Cooperative Extension led the effort with the help of Delaware Master Naturalist Volunteers. The Delaware Ornithological Society and the Delaware Council of Wildlife Rehabilitators and Educators hosted tables and provided speakers.
PUBLIC VALUE STATEMENT
Delaware Master Naturalists are heavily involved in projects across the state at over 20 Local Organizing Partners through volunteer service. Projects ranged from public education to environmental stewardship. Delaware Master Naturalists attended the jamboree to continue their lifelong learning journey, which will allow them to provide valuable volunteer service and create a strong network of passionate people.