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Hey, I really enjoyed reading your reflection on your journey through environmental science here at Guelph.

I totally relate to your experiences, especially your frustration with the misconception that environmental science is just about "saving the turtles." As you pointed out, environmental science is incredibly diverse, encompassing various disciplines and addressing complex challenges. It's not just about individual species; it's about understanding the intricate relationships between organisms, ecosystems, and human activities.

I appreciate your perspective on the challenges faced by individuals who may not have the means to live fully eco-friendly lives. It's important to be able to recognize some of these barriers and approach environmentalism with an open mind. I would love to be able to live my life entirely eco friendly, but even as someone who studies this and knows what to do, it's just not possible all the time.

Your mention of leveraging social media alongside scientific knowledge I think is also an important point. Social media influence is such a powerful resource that can easily be used to engage with diverse audiences and spark meaningful conversations about the environment. By utilizing platforms like social media, we can reach people from all over the world and inspire collective action towards protecting our planet.

I don't know if you have ever heard of the National Center for Science Education but a friend of mine in teaching told me about it and it's a great website that has everything from from lesson plans and classroom activities to articles and multimedia content. It talks all about teaching climate change science and how educators can inform their students. Great job with the blog this week!

The Last and Final Blog

Over my past 4 years here at the University of Guelph, the environment has been at the center of my focus. Immersed in this for 1460 days has truly shaped me into who I am as a person and defined what my ethics and values are. For every job I applied to, the question I always got asked was, Why is this something you want to pursue? My answer is always the same; By being a student who is immersed in this knowledge and knows the complexities of the environment down the molecular level, I feel that it is my moral duty to relay this information and educate others. As an interpreter, my personal ethics encourages me to help educate people on ways they can learn about their impacts and how to help. It is important to look back on the daily decisions you make to see how you are either contributing or helping the environment. Some situations can be exempted. For example, they say you should buy electric cars, however, CTV News reported that the average price for an EV vehicle has reached 73,000$ (Bickis, 2023). When the price of a car is this high, you cannot blame individuals for using their gas cars to get to work so they can put food on the table for their families. Understanding that not everyone is as privileged to live a fully eco life is one step closer to stopping the blame and a step in the right direction for education on how you can become environmentally friendly with your living status. Being taught about the imbalances in the environment as a result of human disturbances and the effects they can have is very scary. Constant exposure to this kind of content every day can seriously impact your thoughts and beliefs about life and the world. In my case, it became very motivating. It drives me to want to help educate others and contribute to organizations that are focusing on the preservation and conservation of our earth. 

This course has been a very pivotal experience for me. Although I love taking courses about the environment which includes biology and chemistry, this course forced me to look beyond just these numbers and the analytical lens. It forced me to think more intuitively regarding interpretation and environmental science. Understanding the needs of our earth and how much we impact it starts with admitting to yourself that there is a problem whether created by you or someone else, and that it needs to be addressed. Today, there has been lots of greenwashing which tends to turn people away from wanting to advocate for the Earth. There is such a divide between the general public knowledge and students/scientists. I can't tell you how many people have said to me “Oh, so you want to save the Turtles” when I told them I was in environmental science. This statement right here goes to show the lack of understanding between preservation and protecting the planet. Environmental science falls under a huge umbrella. It encompasses so much that goes beyond just implementing reusable or compostable straws. 

When I have conversations with people who are out of touch with reality, I feel nothing but sad for them. That they are not as fortunate to know what I know or that their motivations might be driven by something else. But I cannot blame them, knowledge is power but it's also money. I believe it is my right as someone who holds this kind of knowledge, to help people understand and become engaged and involved with the environment. However, I do also believe as people of this earth, it affects us all, and doesn't matter what your social status, race, gender, etc. is, it is something we should all be working towards understanding. Let's just put it this way, a hurricane doesn't care if you're a billionaire with a nice house. Beck et al. (2018) state that there are immense educational benefits associated with acquiring knowledge that can result in “an enjoyable and enriching experience” encouraging a more meaningful relationship with the topic of interest. It doesn’t matter who you are, you will be affected directly or indirectly and therefore I believe we all have an innate calling to preserve and protect the earth not only for us but for the generations to come.

Nature has been a huge component of my life whether it was in the classroom or my own personal outlet. I was taught from a very young age to appreciate nature in all its glory. Over the years I have become increasingly empathetic towards the environment. When I read about things in the news I can’t feel anything but sad. It's so disheartening seeing our earth become hurt and have to constantly rebuild itself. I constantly ask myself when. When will we learn? How long does it take for us to make a change? What brutal disasters need to keep happening for us to stop? Going back to first-year environmental science, we talked about nature having intrinsic value and I couldn’t agree with this statement more. Just like we learned in this course, even if we do not gain any materialistic value from nature and it does not directly or indirectly benefit us, it still has a purpose and is still valuable on its own (Rea & Munns., 2017). Many people are motivated based on economic return and unfortunately, the environment is at the centre of those decisions. The understanding of intrinsic value is based on an ecocentric standpoint which is developed from having a serious concern for the environment, something many people lack (Rea & Munns., 2017). This concern can come from upbringing and experience that shape how one views the world. For people who are struggling to put food on the table, the state of the environment is not typically their biggest problem. Effective interpretation as described by Beck et al., (2018) involves building new knowledge, values, and beliefs. Being open-minded to adopting new concepts can truly work wonders.

Finally, I feel it's my responsibility as an interpreter to educate. Social media is a very powerful tool in today's age and being able to raise awareness about situations regarding climate issues is a great way to expose the general public. I just hope we can create a sense of unity when it comes to caring for our planet and that it gets the attention it deserves because we only have 1, but 1 is enough if we do it right! 

Thanks, everyone for a great semester I enjoyed reading all your blogs! 

Beck, L., Cable, T. T., & Knudson, D. M. (2018). Interpreting cultural and natural heritage: For A Better World. SAGAMORE Publishing, (pp. 42). 

Beck, L., Cable, T. T., & Knudson, D. M. (2018). Interpreting cultural and natural heritage: For A Better World. SAGAMORE Publishing, (pp. 91). 

Bickis, I. (2023, October 22). EVs are getting easier to find -- but with price tags out of reach for many Canadians. CTVNews. https://www.ctvnews.ca/autos/evs-are-getting-easier-to-find-but-with-price-tags-out-of-reach-for-many-canadians-1.6612044 

Rea, A. W., & Munns, W. R. (2017). The value of nature: Economic, intrinsic, or both? Integrated Environmental Assessment and Management, 13(5), 953–955. https://doi.org/10.1002/ieam.1924

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Ethics as a nature interpreter

As I develop as a nature interpreter, my personal ethic is rooted in the belief that environmental conservation is a collective responsibility requiring the active engagement of communities, organizations, and individuals. I believe that within our local communities, our impact and work can create a more sustainable future on a larger scale. This involves not only participating in conservation projects and clean-up events but also advocating for environmental causes and joining with individuals and groups dedicated to protecting our planet's ecosystems.

I believe that keeping our natural spaces clean and thriving is a top priority. Past just picking up litter, this is also about being mindful of how our actions affect the environment as a whole. That means cutting down on waste, sticking to leave no trace principles, and respecting the habitats of the creatures we share our planet with. By taking care of the places we love, we're ensuring they'll be around for future generations to enjoy.

As someone who's enjoys being out in nature and doing wildlife photography, I totally get the temptation to get up close and personal with wild animals. But I also understand the importance of giving them their space. Responsible wildlife viewing isn't just about snapping the perfect shot, it's about ensuring the well-being of the habitat and animals you’re engaging with.

I also think as someone who is getting an education in this field it is important to inform others on all the pressing issues that are happening. I have spent 3 years learning about things like climate change and habitat loss, and hopefully being able to talk about these subjects can inform those who might not know as much. Whether it's through something as simple as talking to the people around me, spreading the word in my community, or getting involved in environmental movements, using my background in this field is something that I believe I should take full advantage of.

Central to my ethic is the belief that everyone deserves to be able to learn and engage with nature, despite potential barriers. Whether it's lack of time, physical limitations, or financial constraints, I believe it is important to make nature accessible to all. As someone who has gone through multiple injuries that have entirely limited my ability to walk, I have been grateful for conservation parks near my house that have offered things such as hiking wheelchairs or boardwalk paths through the park. These small things made a huge difference when I was recovering, allowing me to still get out and enjoy nature despite being so physically limited.

Even with everything I have learned through school and this course, as I continue to develop as a nature interpreter, I want to make sure to keep an open mind. I know there's always more to learn and new ways to make a difference. By being mindful of how we affect the environment, we can make sure that everyone is able to get out and enjoy nature.

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The Most Amazing Thing You Know About Nature – The Bottlenose Dolphin

Today, I am going to be talking about one of my favourite and one of the most impressive animals that you can learn about, the bottlenose dolphin.

Bottlenose dolphins, are highly intelligent marine mammals found in oceans and coastal waters around the world. Known for their sleek, streamlined bodies and distinctive "bottle-shaped" noses, these creatures are incredibly smart, rivaling some of the most intelligent creatures on Earth.

One of the most remarkable aspects of bottlenose dolphins is their advanced cognitive abilities. With brains second only in size to humans relative to body weight, they exhibit complex problem-solving skills, social behaviors, and even self-awareness. Research has shown that dolphins are capable of sophisticated communication, including the use of unique signature whistles that function as names within their social groups.

In addition to their intelligence, bottlenose dolphins display a complex social structure. They live in dynamic groups called pods, which can consist of up to several dozen individuals. Within these pods, dolphins form strong social bonds and engage in cooperative behaviors such as hunting, parenting, and defense against predators.

Despite their playful reputation, bottlenose dolphins are apex predators in their marine ecosystems, playing a vital role in regulating prey populations and maintaining ecosystem balance. They are known as highly skilled hunters and use a diverse range of techniques to capture their prey, which primarily consists of fish, squid, and occasionally crustaceans. These hunting strategies are finely tuned to suit the specific conditions of their marine environment and the behavior of their prey.

One of the most commonly observed hunting techniques employed by bottlenose dolphins is cooperative herding. In this method, dolphins work together to corral schools of fish into tight clusters, using coordinated movements and strategic positioning to create a barrier and prevent the prey from escaping. Once the fish are concentrated, the dolphins take turns darting in to snatch individual prey.

Another impressive hunting tactic utilized by bottlenose dolphins is known as "fish whacking" or "tail slapping." This technique involves the dolphin using its powerful tail to stun or disorient prey, making them easier to capture. By rapidly flicking their tails against the surface of the water, dolphins create shockwaves that travel through the water, stunning nearby fish and making them more vulnerable to predation.

In certain regions, bottlenose dolphins have been observed engaging in "mud-ring feeding," a unique hunting behavior observed in only a few dolphin populations worldwide. During mud-ring feeding, dolphins swim in tight circles around schools of fish near the seafloor, stirring up sediment and creating a "mud ring" that encircles the prey. This disorients the fish and forces them into a concentrated area, making them easier targets for the waiting dolphins.

Additionally, bottlenose dolphins are known to use echolocation, a sophisticated form of sonar, to locate and track prey underwater. By emitting high-frequency clicks and listening for the echoes that bounce back, dolphins can precisely determine the location, size, and movement of potential prey, even in low visibility conditions.

It's important to note that these hunting techniques are not fixed behaviors but rather flexible strategies that dolphins adapt to suit different prey species and environmental conditions. Their ability to innovate and collaborate during hunting demonstrates their intelligence and adaptability as top predators in the ocean.

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Hey, I loved your blog post about spotted hyenas. It's amazing how much depth and complexity there is to these animals beyond just their negative reputation.

You brought up some really interesting points about their social dynamics and vocalizations. It's impressive how their communication system is so intricate, with each hyena having its own distinct sound. My favourite piece of information that you talked about was definitely that their vocalizations convey identity, I never knew that this was similar to how humans have unique fingerprints.

You also touched upon their intelligence and hunting abilities, which are equally impressive. I have watched a couple documentaries that highlight hyenas taking down prey much larger than themselves simply by working together and utilizing their strengths. And the adaptation of having enzymes in their stomachs to digest materials like bone and venom is useful in making them such efficient predators.

It's unfortunate that hyenas often get a bad reputation in folklore and stories, but my first thought of hyenas is always how they were portrayed in the Lion King, which perfectly fits that negative stereotype they are given. When watching them in documentaries though, they are always one of my favourite animals to learn about because of their fascinating behaviors and unique adaptations.

09: Amazing things in nature - my favourite animal!

Hi everyone! Since this week’s prompt is to talk about the most amazing thing we know in nature, I thought I’d talk about my favourite animal, the spotted hyena! Although you can’t see these animals in Canada unless you go to a zoo, they’re super cool to learn about!

Source: Joel Sartore, https://www.joelsartore.com/search/hyena/

Spotted hyenas, with their unique appearance and intriguing behaviours, stand out as some of Africa's most interesting creatures. From their distinctive laughs to their complex social structures, these animals never fail to spark curiosity. Did you know that despite their appearance, they're actually more related to cats than they are to dogs?

Their robust build with distinctive spots gives them an unmistakable presence. But what truly sets them apart is their extremely complex and unique social dynamics. In the world of spotted hyenas, it's the females who reign supreme. These matriarchs, larger and more dominant than their male counterparts, lead their clans with a ton of strength. 

As for their vocalizations, the noises hyenas make are fascinating due to their versatility and complexity, ranging from spine-chilling laughs to a wide array of grunts, whoops, and growls. These vocalizations play a crucial role in communication within their clans, conveying information about social status and territory. Their vocalizations even convey their identities to eachother as each hyena has its own distinct “whooping” sound, just like how each of us have our own distinct fingerprints!

But it's not just their looks and noises that make spotted hyenas fascinating, it's their smarts too. These creatures are surprisingly amazing hunters. Working together, they employ tactics that enable them to take down prey much larger than themselves, largely due to the fact that their jaws are 10x stronger than a pitbull’s! And when it comes to meals, they eat pretty much everything since they have special enzymes in their stomach that can fully digest the stongest of materials like bone and venom. From insects to venomous snakes, spotted hyenas will have a go at anything, contributing to the delicate balance of their ecosystems as both predators and scavengers. 

Despite their remarkable qualities, spotted hyenas don’t have the best reputation, and are made the villains in many stories. This is probably due to their eerie vocalizations, their knack for scavenging, or even their uncanny ability to consume everything, bones included. Throughout history, they've been linked to death and the supernatural in African folklore, adding an air of mystery to their already mysterious presence. And then there's the competition with humans for resources, a rivalry that has often led to misunderstandings and conflicts. 

Despite this, efforts are underway to set the record straight and give spotted hyenas the credit they deserve. Scientists are delving into their behaviour, ecology, and importance in ecosystems, shedding light on their true nature and advocating for their conservation. These animals are not just symbols of fear, they're integral parts of Africa's rich tapestry of life. 

Overall, spotted hyenas are not just predators of the night, they're the charismatic characters of the African plains, adding complexity to the ecosystems they’re part of. With their playful antics and fierce determination, they've earned their place as one of Africa's most iconic animals!

Law, J. (2004). Crocuta crocuta Spotted Hyena. Animal Diversity Web. Retrieved March 11, 2024, from https://animaldiversity.org/accounts/Crocuta_crocuta/

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Where is music in nature? Where is nature in music?

Music in nature can be found almost anywhere. While you can’t find full songs, you are able to hear different parts of nature that resemble many aspects of music. This can be anything from a rhythmic patter of raindrops on rooftops, or hearing birds chirping in the morning. Really any sound you hear outside, whether you’re walking on a beach or through a forest can be music in nature. Not all sounds you find outside are soft and melodic though. Sounds like the crashing of waves or thunder during a storm are much larger and harsher sounds that you’ll often be able to hear.

Nature also finds its way into music through a variety of ways. For example, composers often use instruments to imitate the sounds of birdsong or the rustling of leaves in the wind. They may incorporate natural elements like wind chimes, rain sticks, or even recordings of nature sounds directly into their music to create a more immersive experience. Nature's influence on music isn't just limited to its sound, as it's also reflected in the themes and emotions that artists try to create. In this way, nature becomes a source of inspiration for musicians, shaping the melodies, rhythms, and themes of their work.

What song takes you immediately back to a natural landscape.

When I was younger my parents would spend a lot of time playing with my sister and I in our backyard. We often had music playing in the background and my family regularly just cycled through the same CDs. For this reason, there are around 3 CDs worth of music that I would associate with being outside. If I had to pick one song that sticks out to me, it would probably be Share the Land by The Guess Who as this is a song I still listen to now.

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Hey Hana,

I really enjoyed reading your post and love the topic you chose for this week. Nature interpretation with others is something that I think is a great way to build relationships with both the people around you and complete strangers. You make a great point talking about how even a simple walk with your mom or spending time outdoors with a friend can benefit a relationship.

I think for this reason many forms of nature interpretation are created to involve a group setting. Activities like outdoor workshops, guided nature walks or even educational classes are all different ways to build a connection with nature as well as the people there with you.

Even something less formal like your walks through the arboretum are a great example of an easy way to strengthen bonds while immersing oneself in nature. It's amazing how such simple activities can lead to meaningful connections and shared memories.

The benefits of interpreting with others!

A lot of the time when we talk about nature interpretation, we talk about how it benefits our mind, our appreciation for nature and how it’s a form of protecting and enhancing our environment. Something that should be talked about more is how nature interpretation can impact our relationships with others. Whether it’s taking a walk with your mom, a hike with a group of people, or laying in the grass with your best friend. Nature interpretation can play a key role in our relationships, and the people we let into our lives. 

One of the pivotal parts of becoming a nature interpreter for me was in first year when I had to go on a squirrel walk for BIOL*1070. I know there are a lot of people who will know what this is, and to be honest I loved them! We had to go on 5 walks that were about 30 minutes long and monitor any squirrel's behavior. I would take all of my friends on a walk through the Arboretum. This started as a task, but slowly turned into such a fun experience. I remember we found a little area in the Arboretum that reminded us of a movie scene and all gathered together to take a photo. We ended up going so far back into the Arboretum that we got lost, and a half an hour walk turned into three hours. The whole time we were talking about how beautiful the nature around us was, and wondering why the trees were that shape or why some had leaves and others that looked the same didn’t. This is something I still remember, and occasionally my friends and I will laugh about how we got lost in the Arboretum. This moment of being able to interpret nature with my friends is one that I will always remember and it has a special place in my heart.

“An important characteristic of interpretation is that it implies interaction.” This interaction can come from listening to a podcast, a group hike with a tour guide, or a walk with a friend. This is the essence of interpretation, that visitors are interacting and participating with the interpretive experience (Beck et al, 2018). I like to think that some of the best things come in two, and being able to interpret nature with someone is something that can be special when you have a partner.

One of the biggest reasons I love nature and going on walks so much is because it reminds me of my mother. Sometimes being in Guelph and away from my family is hard, so taking little walks along a path is just what I need. Many people learn to love nature interpretation through their parents, just like I did. My mother has subconsciously made me love and appreciate nature through all the walks we would take growing up, or the summer camping trips we would take. This is important in nature interpretation as it makes way for the next generation. The textbook shares stories about Cornelius who was amazed by a wild bighorn ram when his father took him to a national park, or how Maria taught her daughter how to properly identify all birds and plants in the woods by their house (Beck et al, 2018). These experiences are crucial as they keep nature interpretation alive and inspire the next generation of interpreters and they also create special moments with loved ones.

Next time you decide to go on a walk, maybe ask your roommate, and see what happens!

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

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My Favourite Spot in Nature

For this week’s open-ended prompt, I decided to talk about my favourite spot in nature. Growing up, Pinery Provincial Park has been my family's go-to spot for summer trips. For as long as I can remember my family, including my aunts, uncles, and cousins, get together for one week every summer to camp here. We have been to tons of different campsites around the entire park over the years and have enjoyed every single one.

My cousins and I in the sand dunes at the Pinery.

My memories of this place extend back to being a little kid and building sandcastles on the beach, to training for triathlons as I got older. My family and I regularly spend our time hiking and biking on the trails or swimming at the beach. In more recent years I have even started going up here and camping with my friends.

Exploring the park's diverse ecosystems has always been a highlight. My uncle is big into animal photography, so I have been lucky enough to travel around the park with him looking at turtles along the boardwalk, skinks and snakes on the trails and many of the insects, like cicadas, in the trees. Sometimes when we are out, we manage to spot some of the larger animals located in the park as well, like the Great Blue Heron or the White-tailed Deer.

Whether I am there with my family or my friends, I am grateful for the opportunity to continue the tradition of camping there every summer. The Pinery is a place that has been a part of my life since I was a young child, and I hope to continue visiting as I grow older.

A picture of me on one of my first trips to the Pinery.

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Interpreting Nature Through Art

As a zoology student, I often find myself working with different parts of nature. Unfortunately, this interaction is almost solely academic, as my studies focus on the scientific aspects of wildlife, behaviour, and ecosystems. While not inherently artistic, this week’s prompt has given me a chance to look at how nature and art often intersect.

While I do have an appreciation for art in all forms, I am not one to spend a lot my time trying to explore this part of the world. However, reading this chapter, the “gift of beauty” was something that stood out as an important part of nature interpretation and something that I often find myself already doing.

This “gift” encourages observers to see the positive attributes in the natural world. It's about recognizing the aesthetic elements, such as the vibrant colors of a bird's feathers or the synchronized movements of a school of fish and finding joy in these simple yet incredible details.

Using this concept allows you to connect with nature past scientific facts and understanding and rather appreciate the artistic aspects of the environment around you. This ability is so important because it pushes a positive relationship with nature and encourages people to have the right mindset to truly enjoy the world around them.

Interpreting nature through an artistic view is something that is not always thought about, but is done constantly. Being able to observe the wildlife and ecosystems surrounding us through art is an important reminder that beyond the data and classifications, if we look at the world through an artistic outlook we can appreciate, and ultimately contribute to building inclusive and positive engagement with the natural world.

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Hey Grace, I really enjoyed reading your blog post and think you brought up some great points. As a white university student, I also recognize that I come from a place of privilege with my experiences, and that not everyone has access to the same opportunities.

I think you make a great point when talking about this idea from an education point of view. As students who get the opportunity to learn about this part of the world at the university level, it is important that we use knowledge gained through courses like this one to make environmental information and education easily accessible, regardless of certain limitations.

I also agree with your thoughts on the potential lack of diversity in the field. This isn’t something I initially thought of, but very often, information on certain areas is dominated by one group or culture. It is important that we can gather information from many different viewpoints to ensure there is no bias or one-sided information being pushed.

I think you made some great points on this topic, and reading your blog made me think of some aspects of privilege that I hadn’t originally considered myself.

03: Privilege in nature interpretation.

As a white female university student, the concept of privilege significantly shapes my approach to nature interpretation. Privilege, in this context, refers to unearned advantages or benefits that someone may have based on their social identity, such as race, gender, or socio-economic status. Understanding and acknowledging privilege is crucial in the field of nature interpretation, as it influences how people perceive and interact with the environment.

With environmental education, privilege can manifest in various ways that impact both the interpreter and the audience. Being a white individual, I recognize that I navigate natural spaces with a level of ease and comfort that others may not have. My skin color often shields me from racial profiling or discrimination when exploring outdoor areas. This realization has prompted me to reflect on how my experiences and perspectives may differ from those of individuals who face barriers to accessing and enjoying nature.

In the context of nature interpretation, privilege can affect the narratives we share and the perspectives we prioritize. For example, a lack of diversity in the field may lead to a narrow focus on experiences and viewpoints that align with the dominant culture. As a white female interpreter, I strive to be aware of this potential bias and help work towards inclusive storytelling that incorporates diverse voices and experiences. This could involve actively seeking out and promoting narratives that reflect more diverse human connections to the environment.

Privilege also plays a role in access to education and resources. As a university student, I have had the privilege of receiving a higher education that has deepened my understanding of environmental issues. However, I recognize that not everyone has the same opportunities. This awareness influences my approach to nature interpretation. I think it is important that we try to make environmental education more accessible to all, regardless of socio-economic background. 

Lastly, privilege can also impact the way messages about environmental conservation are received. Recognizing that some individuals may face more immediate concerns, such as economic instability or social injustice, can help frame environmental issues in a way that resonates with wider and more diverse audiences. That would require acknowledging that not everyone has the luxury of prioritizing environmental sustainability when basic needs aren’t met.

Overall, privilege shapes how I interpret and communicate about nature. It highlights the need for self-reflection, and the need for work to dismantle barriers for many people who don’t have those privileges.

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What role does "privilege" play in nature interpretation?

The concept of privilege plays a significant role in shaping how individuals perceive and interpret the natural world. Privilege is the inherent advantages or disadvantages that people may experience based various factors, such as socioeconomic status, race, gender, ability, and education.

One aspect where privilege plays a strong role in nature interpretation is in access to natural spaces. Individuals with higher socioeconomic status may have greater access to well-maintained parks, wildlife reserves, or educational programs focused on the environment.

Representation and inclusion are also important in nature interpretation. Privilege can determine whose experiences and perspectives are highlighted in textbooks, scientific literature, and educational materials. Historically, certain communities have been underrepresented, limiting the diversity of narratives and viewpoints in the study of biology.

Cultural perspectives significantly impact how individuals interpret and connect with nature. Cultural backgrounds can have a crucial role in shaping our attitudes towards the environment. Different communities may have unique knowledge, practices, and relationships with nature. The concept of privilege influences whose cultural narratives are prioritized in biology education and interpretation, often ignoring the importance of embracing a wide range of perspectives.

Education itself is a critical factor in nature interpretation. Privilege can be evident in the quality and availability of educational resources related to biology. Some individuals may have had access to higher education about ecosystems, conservation, etc., providing them with a deeper understanding of biological concepts. As a biology student, I know that not everyone has the same opportunities to explore ecosystems and closely study plant and animal life.

Physical accessibility is another dimension where privilege comes into play. Physical abilities and disabilities completely control a person's ability to engage with nature. Privilege may be reflected in the provision of accessible trails, facilities, or educational programs tailored to individuals with varying physical abilities.

Overall, there are so many different ways in which privilege influences nature interpretation. From unequal access to natural spaces and underrepresentation in educational materials to the impact of cultural perspectives and physical accessibility, privilege entirely shapes how we perceive and study biology.

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I really enjoyed reading your blog and your thoughts on nature interpretation. The idea of "behind the scenes work" is something that I didn't initially think of when writing my own post but is a great alternative for someone who doesn't like public speaking. This aspect of nature interpretation is equally as valuable as well. Like you mentioned at the beginning of your post, a lot more goes into environmental interpretation than just the final delivery. You also talked about this work leading you to places outside of your local environment and parks. I picked my ideal role with a similar thought in mind. The opportunities that can be found around the world would lead to some amazing experiences. It is a smart idea to start somewhere you are comfortable and already know, but it is a great plan to explore further afield and gather knowledge in a variety of unique locations. I think that while the experiences would be worth it alone, you will be able to research and explore animals, habitats and environments that aren't accessible locally.

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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My ideal role as an environmental interpreter

While I believe I would enjoy a variety of roles as a nature interpreter, one that I have always thought would be fun is that of a wildlife interpreter/guide. A role like this is based around connecting people with nature and the wildlife in the environment around them. This could be anything from leading tours in places like parks to showing and explaining to people about different species and why they're important in their habitats or taking groups on excursions in remote locations. At more advanced levels, this job could even entail teaching wildlife skills such as how to track animals and explaining more in depth about their movements and behaviors. Another aspect of this position would be to talk about the numerous problems animals face. Wildlife interpreters raise awareness about the challenges faced by animals, from habitat loss to climate change. It is important to push a sense of responsibility and encourage people to take actions to contribute to wildlife conservation.

This role of nature interpretation is extremely open ended and has so many different routes and possibilities. As a wildlife interpreter you could work anywhere, ranging from national parks and wildlife reserves to botanical gardens and nature centers. The opportunities you have in this field are nearly endless as you can perform this kind of nature interpretation anywhere in the world. Anything from coastal areas, forests, and even urban green spaces provide opportunities to share information and knowledge on wildlife and their habitats. You can even go to educational institutions, environmental organizations, and community outreach programs that offer platforms for wildlife interpreters to engage with audiences, from school children to adults.

To make all of this information engaging, wildlife interpreters use various methods, from simple storytelling to incorporating technology and hands on projects. They might use wildlife cameras, virtual reality experiences, or interactive activities to capture attention and create memorable connections between people and wildlife. Overall, being a wildlife interpreter is about establishing engaging and lasting links between audiences and the natural environment. While there are many great ways to be an environmental interpreter the seemingly endless possibilities to this kind of nature interpretation is the main reason I think of this as an ideal role.

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Really enjoyed reading your blog, I think that your desire to continue building your relationship with nature is a great goal. You mention having trouble prioritizing spending time in nature which is something I have also found difficult when I am at school. I think one of the biggest challenges I find personally is the constant cold weather during the school year. While I love getting outside in the summer time, I find it much less appealing to go outside during the winter months. The freezing temperatures mixed with the early sunsets makes it difficult to be outside without a specific reason. You also talk about the importance that being outside can have on both your physical and mental health which I think is a great point. This is one of the main reasons I love to get outside so much and I think Guelph provides some great opportunities to do that with the arboretum so easily accessible from campus.

1: My relationship with nature

My current relationship with nature is unfortunately, not as deep as I’d like it to be. Between the demands of school and work, I seem to find myself prioritizing other things over spending time in nature. However, I recognize the importance of reconnecting with the natural world on both my physical and mental health, and so I try to make an effort to do so whenever I can.

My relationship with nature has fluctuated and evolved as I have. When I was younger, it was relatively easy to spend time outside and immerse myself in nature. Not just by being outside, but by absorbing as much as I could information wise. As I got older, that love for learning about nature remained constant, but the active part wavered. However, I was able to find times to reconnect with nature, such as over the Covid-19 pandemic. When there was nothing to be done, and nothing was open, I would go and take walks and go to nearby trails (when we were allowed of course) and regain my admiration for nature at a time when I really did need it. These moments served as a reminder of the beauty and importance of the natural world, especially during challenging times.

In addition, I have been fortunate to have people in my life who have offered me a "sense of place" and have helped deepen my relationship with nature. The first is my friends, who are much more active and adventurous than I am. I have one specific friend in mind, because whenever we hang out, they always find a way to incorporate nature into it. They make me go with them on walks in Preservation Park, or the Arboretum, and always point out something that they find awesome, and make me think it’s awesome too. Without them, my relationship with Guelph’s natural areas wouldn’t be what it currently is. Another is my dad. He has a background in forestry, and whenever I go home to see him, we’ll go on hikes and he’ll point out things, and tell me stories, or tell me about how this and that plant has 5 different uses. He motivates me to learn, so that I can be confident about my knowledge about different plants and such. The people in my life value nature a lot, and they remind me to value nature too, and to take any time I can to appreciate the way they do.

In conclusion, while my relationship with nature may not be as intensive as I would like it to be, I am committed to nurturing and developing it. Whether it's taking walks in nearby parks, learning about plants and ecosystems, or seeking the guidance of those who share my passion, I strive to create a stronger bond with the natural world. After all, nature provides us with solace, inspiration, and a sense of belonging, and it is crucial that we recognize its value and take the time to appreciate it.

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Blog 1: My Relationship with Nature

My relationship with nature is almost entirely thanks to my upbringing and strong influence from my parents. Growing up, I was fortunate to have parents who prioritized outdoor experiences and who gave me an appreciation for nature and the outdoors. This positive exposure started from when I was a young child and continues to this day.

Some of my earliest memories, are with my family going out on weekend hikes or spending time playing at the parks in my neighbourhood. Growing up I was lucky enough to live a 10–20-minute drive away from 6 different conservation parks, which is something my parents always said played a large part in their decision to settle down where they did. I have spent countless hours at all 6 hiking, swimming and when I got older, working. My parents made sure we got out to explore these places constantly, but not just on the main trails, they took us rock climbing there, mountain biking and caving.

My time spent outdoors would always peak during the summer months. While I did spend plenty of time growing up sitting on my couch playing video games with my friends, we always enjoyed spending time outside, riding our bikes around town or playing some game at our local park. We would constantly be putting together games of basketball or manhunt and playing for hours a day. Since both my parents are in education, I always got to experience a large part of my summers with them as well. We would often go on family trips to cottages and campsites, spending multiple weeks every summer not just being outside but living outside. This got me comfortable in all parts of nature, not just the parks and green spaces around my community.

All of this has directly translated to who I am now. While I unfortunately spend less time playing manhunt and different games at the parks around my house, I still often find my myself outdoors. Every summer my family goes on those same camping trips and when I am home my parents and I still enjoy taking our dog out to hike at the conservation parks. Even without them I regularly spend time in nature. I will often go to a park with friends to play basketball or throw a frisbee. Over the last couple of summers since my friends and I have gotten older, we have ventured further a field, going on backcountry camping trips in Algonquin as well as out East to camp in the Cape Breton Highlands.

Thanks to my parent’s love for nature the outdoors is a large and constant part of my life. While my time spent outside has changed from when I was a kid and will continue to change as I get older, I have no doubt that I will always enjoy and appreciate my time in nature.

One of the waterfalls we managed to find when hiking the trails at Cape Breton.

Portaging in the rain during an Algonquin trip.

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Disclaimer

This blog was created for ENVS*3000 Winter 2024, 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.