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Hi Grace!

I found your final blog post to be so heartwarming and down to earth, and I loved reading every bit of it. I too am graduating this year and I feel the same mix of emotions that you described in your post. I specifically loved the story-telling nature you utilized in your post; it made me feel like I was there with you throughout these experiences, and I think that you really brought the evolution of your relationship with both nature and your idea of nature interpretation to life. I feel like I had a similar experience to you as I was a child who loved being outdoors, no matter what the conditions were. It was these fond memories I had that I feel really drove me to pursue the major I am currently in, and I feel like you might have had a similar mindset in that. 

Your description of how diverse and awe-inspiring nature can be really hit home for me. I think that you perfectly described not just a scientific viewpoint, but also an appreciative view of just how important every single aspect of nature is. Not only that, but also the beauty that is captured in every detail of nature. It is truly as if someone created every piece to serve a purpose, and I love to explore every relationship that can be expressed in those pieces of the larger puzzle. I think that you really expressed how you view nature in such a descriptive way, and I truly feel that you encompass the role of a nature interpreter through this post. 

One specific aspect that I feel greatly strengthened the content of your post is your idea of how important considering multiple viewpoints can be when interpreting nature. Similar to what we discussed a couple blog posts ago, the experience is null if we do not know, or do not even consider the history. A rock is just a rock unless you know the processes that formed it, and the factors that were required to bring it to the place it currently resides in. Because of this, I completely and wholeheartedly support this idea that you discuss as it truly is one of the most important aspects of nature interpretation. No experience is truly unique or isolated from another, and so it is this complexity we need to consider when understanding nature, and being able to express this to others is such an important aspect of nature interpretation. 

Overall, the ideas you discuss in your final blog post are so inspiring and paint a picture of both your own personal experiences as well as your beliefs associated with this course. Your development of your relationship with nature has likely progressed significantly with the content you completed here, and I only say this because it is something that I felt throughout this process. I really hope that you carry these thoughts and ideas with you following your graduation, and I wish you the best in all your future endeavours. Your post was a great and inspiring read, and so I feel that you will be able to utilize these strengths throughout both your professional career as well as your life as a whole.

09: My final blog!

As I’m getting ready to graduate soon, ready to hopefully go into the world of science and nature interpretation, I can't help but feel both excitement and a bit of nervousness. Reflecting on my journey through university, I realize that my personal ethic has been quietly evolving, shaped by my deep love for nature and my desire to share its beauty with others!

Since I was a kid, I've been really drawn to the outdoors and nature, especially animals. Whether it was chasing butterflies through meadows, building forts in the woods, or simply lying in the grass and watching clouds drift by, nature has always been one of my happy places. As I grew older, my passion for nature grew more into a passion for conservation and environmental advocacy. I think I started to see nature not just as a playground, but as a precious and fragile ecosystem that needed protection. From the smallest hummingbird to the mightiest lion, every creature and every corner of the natural world has become special to me. 

As I prepare to step into the role of a nature interpreter in the future, I find myself thinking about a whole new set of questions and responsibilities. What beliefs do I bring to this work? What kind of interpreter do I want to be? At the heart of my personal ethic, I have a passion for the beauty and complexity of nature. I think that every leaf, every rock, every drop of rain is a masterpiece in its own right, deserving of awe and admiration. But my passion also goes beyond just appreciation, it extends to a determination to protect and preserve the natural world for future generations. In my eyes, being a nature interpreter isn't just about pointing out cool animals and pretty flowers (although those are definitely fun parts of the job). It's about creating a sense of wonder and curiosity, giving people a deep connection to the natural world and inspiring others to become passionate stewards of the earth as well (Beck et al., 2018, p. 42). 

To achieve these goals, I'm personally a firm believer in the power of hands-on learning. There's just something magical about getting your hands dirty and your feet wet, about feeling the sun on your face and the wind in your hair. Whether it's leading nature walks, conducting field research, or getting to hold and touch cool animals, I'm all about getting out there and getting involved. I think that hands-on experiences are great at creating a sense of connection (GGI Insights, n.d.). They engage multiple senses, promote direct interaction with the environment, and create memorable, immersive experiences that resonate deeply with people (Bloemendaal, 2023). But hands-on learning isn't just about having fun (although, again, it's definitely a perk). It's also about deepening our understanding of the natural world, bettering our observation skills, and creating a sense of empathy for the creatures we share this planet with (GGI Insights, n.d.). After all, it's hard to care about something you've never seen or experienced firsthand. 

In addition to hands-on learning, I'm a big fan of interdisciplinary approaches to nature interpretation. The natural world is truly a complicated place, so understanding it requires more than just a basic knowledge of biology or ecology. It requires us to consider the cultural, historical, and social factors that shape our relationship with nature, as well as the ethical implications of our actions (Spokes, 2020). That's why I think it would be important to always be on the lookout for new ways to weave together different disciplines and perspectives in nature interpretation work. Whether it's incorporating indigenous knowledge into nature walks, exploring the intersection of art and science in outreach programs, or delving into the psychology of conservation behaviour in research, it’s important that we build connections between disciplines (Spokes, 2020). Especially as someone who has a passion for science, discussing science in nature interpretation is crucial because it provides a foundation of understanding, creates informed appreciation, and empowers people to make informed decisions about conservation and environmental stewardship.

Of course, no discussion of nature interpretation would be finished without addressing the elephant in the room: ethical wildlife viewing. As someone who's spent more hours than I can count marvelling at the beauty of wild animals and trying to do wildlife photography, I know how tempting it can be to get up close and personal for that perfect shot. But I also know that our desire for a good photo shouldn't come at the expense of the animals we love. That's why I'm committed to practicing responsible wildlife viewing techniques, like keeping a safe distance, minimizing habitat disturbance, and never feeding or approaching wild animals (Burns, 2017). 

Finally, I believe that as a nature interpreter, I have a responsibility to address pressing environmental issues like climate change and habitat loss. These are not just abstract concepts or distant threats, but real problems that are already having a huge impact on the world around us. That's why I'm committed to using my platform as a nature interpreter to raise awareness about these issues, to share stories of resilience and adaptation in the face of environmental change, and to inspire other people to take action in their own lives and communities. Because at the end of the day, it's not enough to simply appreciate the beauty of nature, we have to fight for its protection. 

Overall, my personal ethic as a nature interpreter is grounded in a deep passion for the natural world, a commitment to hands-on learning and interdisciplinary approaches, a dedication to ethical wildlife viewing, and a passion for environmental advocacy. As I Start this journey, I know that the road ahead will be long and challenging, but I'm ready to face whatever comes my way with determination, curiosity, and a whole lot of love for nature!

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

Bloemendaal, M. (2023, March 5). Unlocking the Power of Hands-On Learning: Benefits, Activities, and Examples. Studio Why. https://studiowhy.com/unlocking-the-power-of-hands-on-learning-benefits-activities-and-examples/

Burns, G. L. (2017). Ethics and Responsibility in Wildlife Tourism: Lessons from Compassionate Conservation in the Anthropocene. Wildlife Tourism, Environmental Learning and Ethical Encounters, 213-220. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-319-55574-4_13

Conservation Education: Young People for Environmental Stewardship. (2024, March 8). Gray Group International. Retrieved March 18, 2024, from https://www.graygroupintl.com/blog/conservation-education#:~:text=Hands%2Don%20learning%20and%20outdoor%20experiences%20provide%20learners%20with%20opportunities,sense%20of%20responsibility%20and%20stewardship

Spokes, M. (2020, October 23). The interdisciplinary path to a more diverse conservation movement. Conservation Optimism. https://conservationoptimism.org/the-interdisciplinary-path-to-a-more-diverse-conservation-movement/

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Hi Alleeya! I loved your final post for this course, and I completely agree with you, it is so bittersweet that this truly is our last blog post!! I really like how you mentioned that before improving your understanding through the course content, you stated that your ideal role as a nature interpreter was a professor. However, upon completing the course goals, projects, and resources, you have expanded what this ideal role means to you. I feel like I shared a similar experience where I felt that, in the beginning of the course, I was unsure of my entire understanding of a nature interpreter, so I often related this to the people I have encountered across my travels, such as nature guides or tour guides who share the history behind the experiences you are observing and taking part in. I still fully support this thought, but I now feel that this idea has been expanded from my previous thinking. I love how you related this back to yourself, and I think you described your experience understanding the many different outlets of being a nature interpreter can fall under. Specifically, you mentioned how you can be a nature interpreter through your art, as art is often a wonderful medium to utilize to express your relationship with or ideologies of nature to others. Personally, I find that this view is difficult to express, and so being able to have an outlet like art is such a beautiful, not to mention meaningful, way to share your thoughts and feelings with others, without even having to say anything. I think that this aspect of this course specifically was very awe inspiring because, as I mentioned, I had only thought of the spoken word or experiences as nature interpretation; I hadn’t considered how other mediums could be utilized. 

Your second point regarding the importance of staying true to your passions I felt specifically touched home, and I think that mentioning this in your final blog post is such an eloquent way to tie everything together. I agree that staying true to your passions is a very important part of both scientific and art interpretation. If an individual has no ties to their own thoughts and experiences, we would have no original thoughts or ideas. In other words, if everyone is easily swayed in their opinions, then we would not have this diversity that we see in our world, both good and bad. Going off this, you related it to how people viewing your art will also have their own opinions or thoughts, and I think this perfectly ties the whole idea together where nature interpreters act as a lens for people, but each experience is different for each individual, I truly think that is the most beautiful, human thing to acknowledge.

Overall, I think your post greatly encapsulated the main goals we learned throughout this course, and I am so glad to have both similar and unique experiences to you. I love responding to people’s blog posts here because I get to add to my own experience from what their insights might be. I wish you the best and hope that you carry the lessons you learned in this course through to your future goals and aspirations.

Final Post! My reflection as an interpreter

This course provided me with the opportunities to learn about various learning styles and methods of interpretation, giving me the tools to discover who I am as a nature interpreter (Hooykaas, 2024). My approach as an individual comes from the desire to evoke emotional responses through interpretation, whether that be through art or through teaching scientific concepts (Beck et al. 2018, p.44). Looking back to my second blog post, I described my ideal role as an interpreter being a professor. I still resonate with this role, but the idea of interpretation in less of a directly-academic setting has crossed my mind. I still believe that my ideology of presenting scientific information in a setting for open conversation is most suitable to me. Through this open line of communication surrounding scientific topics, it can open a listener to care about things such as plant nutrients or global warming, to lead them to caring for these topics in day-to-day life (Beck et al. 2018, p.60). In addition to interpretation through speaking, I have realised that my learning styles being tactile/visual really reflects in my art (Hooykaas, 2024). I explained my connection to art and nature interpretation previously in my blog, and I have always known that nature has inspired me to create throughout my life. My art provides me with another outlet to showcase nature interpretation in a physical way that can provoke viewers to ask questions and get curious about nature (Beck et al. 2018, p.229). 

Through these two very different paths of interpretation, the responsibilities I uphold are to stay true to my passions and to state unbiased, clear information to my listeners. Staying true to my passions is important for both art and scientific interpretation. If I were to deviate from art that makes me feel fulfilled and from science that applies to concepts I care about it wouldn’t be me. This is a responsibility I have to myself as an individual, and without the passions that drive me to be curious about nature, I would have no role as an interpreter at all. Stating unbiased and clear information is especially true if I am to pursue a professorship in academia. It is a responsibility to pass on information that is factually true so that others can interpret their own opinions off it. Topics that come to mind regarding this include GMO information as well as the various methods of combating climate change. Fulfilling this responsibility can be done through constantly learning, maintaining professionalism, and developing various skill sets to be a credible interpreter (Beck et al. 2018, p.378).

The belief that I feel defines me as an interpreter is that nature is the greatest teacher in balance. When a tree falls, it creates a space for insects and small animals to burrow under, it gives life to fungi and moss, it creates an entirely new ecosystem of life through death. A quote that connects to this belief is “Often the scene interprets itself, so interpreters need not impose.” (Beck et al. 2018, p. 83). I really resonate with this quote because through observing the natural order of life, you learn so many concepts that you can apply without doing anything but taking it all in. On a more cellular level, learning about homeostasis and how plants create antioxidants to keep themselves healthy is applied to human concepts of health constantly. Being taught to eat blueberries as a kid because of their antioxidant potentials, drinking peppermint tea to soothe inflammation in the stomach, health concepts that were learned from nature. I believe that through observing the natural science of life, order can be brought to my own life, and it is a goal to share my interpretation of these instances with others. 

All in all, my ethics as an interpreter lay in being truthful, kind, and curious. I also want to remain aware of the privileges I hold in life, and to attribute credit to those who made my interests available to me. As an interpreter, it is important to me to share the truth with all who listen, even if that truth is ugly. I will share the truth about food processing, land colonisation, and inaccuracy of government regulations where it is due. Learning about the beauties of nature is never without the unfortunate facts that may lay underneath the information. Another area of ethics I feel very strongly about is being mindful of each person’s struggles throughout life. This concept is more for the scenario of me as a professor. I have always had the goal of creating an atmosphere built on actually processing and caring about the information learned, not regurgitating facts to fulfil a standard test. I have had many struggles out of my control throughout my university experience, and while some professors have helped, many haven’t. It is a goal of mine to never be like those people. I want to be able to help students who care about succeeding even when life deals them a bad card, something I wish that could have been done for me. This is a large basis of my ethics as an interpreter, and it drives me forward to reach my goals. 

It is bitter-sweet that this is my last post, as I have never had an outlet to share my thoughts on nature in a way like this. It has been very interesting to question areas of interpretation that I had never thought of before, and it has helped me reflect on where I see myself going in the future. I look forward to seeing how all your final posts summarise you as an individual interpreter! Enjoy some photos of nature to end this blog off :)

Alleeya 

Beck, L., Cable, T. T., & Knudson, D. M. (2018). Interpreting Cultural and Natural Heritage: For a Better World. Sagamore Publishing LLC. 

Hooykaas, A. (2024). Nature interpretation. https://courselink.uoguelph.ca/d2l/le/content/858004/Home

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Blog 10: My personal beliefs, goals, and ethics as a nature interpreter

Hi everyone, welcome back to my final blog post of this term! I’m very sad that this will be my last post, but I am excited to share my final thoughts regarding this entire course as well as deeply interacting with this week’s blog prompt. So without further adieu, let’s get into my personal thoughts and ethics behind being a nature interpreter.

As someone who is an avid nature explorer and viewer, I feel that this course truly attacked and challenged my understanding of being a nature interpreter, and I am very grateful for it. I had never thought about the importance of being a guide to others in helping people experience nature through a focused lens, but that is the main idea that I got from this course as a whole. I am going to first focus on reiterating what my definition of a nature interpreter is, after which I will cover the specific roles I believe nature interpreters have in our society before ending with my personal beliefs and ethics of being a nature interpreter.

Being a nature interpreter is more than just a job or a role in a community, it is centered around being a leader. As I have discussed in many of my previous blog posts, a nature interpreter is someone who is trying to inform the naivete of the importance of nature and its role in their lives (Beck et al., 2018). They try to bridge the gaps in individuals’ knowledge in an attempt to broaden their understanding and encourage them to make active steps towards a more sustainable lifestyle (Beck et al., 2018). Going off this, we can assume that nature interpreters can be anyone who is passionate about nature and who shares their knowledge with others. This could likely be anyone from a professor to a park ranger to just a passionate individual.

Currently, there are many issues we are experiencing in our world such as climate change, habitat degradation, and multiple other factors. As someone who is in Environmental Science, these topics are something I am very passionate about as I am actively learning about them through my classes as well as outside of my education. It can feel like a big responsibility to take the role of a nature interpreter, because looking at the bigger picture can be extremely overwhelming. This is often why, in my opinion, many people ignore or disregard environmental issues because being aware of the topic can feel terrifying. However, to avoid this, it can be important to view the issue as the smaller steps you can take to improving everything. For example, instead of thinking about the idea as a whole, it is good to start small, such as improving your surrounding area by being active in your community or by joining clubs with like-minded individuals. This is why nature interpreters have such an important role: they act as the guide to show people the small steps they can take, or even just making them aware of the things they might not have known of previously. This way, they are not overwhelming them with a large amount of concerning information, but instead introducing the topic in small steps to make it more approachable.

It can be quite upsetting when you really think about it though, hence the importance of introducing the topic in smaller steps. It can often feel hopeless and that our efforts are null in the big picture of things. When you consider the impacts that some industries have on the environment, it can feel like using reusable bags or reducing your food waste is not enough to cancel out the drilling of oil or the mining practices worldwide, especially when considering the pollutants that are released from those activities. However, it is my personal belief that while some of our smaller efforts might not make a big enough impact, we are so much stronger as a whole. It’s a silly example, but similar to Disney's “A Bug’s Life”, the ants are controlled by the grasshoppers because their outlook has always been that one individual is powerless against a single grasshopper, let alone a small gang of them (Lasseter, 1998). When they realize that there are hundreds of them, and only a handful of grasshoppers, they are powerful enough to eradicate the tyranny of the grasshoppers and begin again (Lasseter, 1998). I view this as a metaphor to the current situation we are in. The people in power believe they have the upper hand, but there are billions of us to their few hundred, and banding together would surely be enough to enact a widespread change. This is my thought at least, that if enough people are up in arms about something, then something would have to be done. This is why it is so important to educate people on this topic, because the more people who join the cause, the more power we have in overturning certain activities.

This mindset can start to sound a little controversial at times, but if we keep continuing down the road we are on, there will be disastrous consequences to the good of our planet and the human race. What’s funny is that the Earth has gone through so many mass extinctions over its 4 billion years of life, and it has always rebounded (Ritchie, 2022), yet we think that we are a permanent aspect of this world. It is therefore this mindset that we need to get around: we as the human race are not permanent, as nothing is truly permanent on this Earth. The Earth is a closed system that is fueled through its internal processes that maintain an equilibrium, and we just happen to be along for the ride (BBC World, 2012). A great example of this is the idea of the Snowball Earth, presented by Paul F. Hoffman (BBC World, 2012). Let's take a deep dive into what the Snowball Earth is, and how this applies to the topic at hand

Snowball Earth is the idea that the world froze over from pole to pole approximately around 2.4 billion and 540 million years ago (Britannica, 2024). Hoffman had many pieces of evidence to back up his claim, such as the dropstones that are found around the equator (dropstones are large stones/boulders that are held in icebergs which are dropped into a body of water as over time) (Young, 2009; Britannica, 2024). However, we know that the negative feedback loop that maintains our climatic system consists of water absorbing a lot of heat from the sun to warm up the area (hence why coastal cities are warmer) and ice reflecting that solar radiation back into the atmosphere (hence why the Arctic is so cold and why climate change reducing the ice caps is so concerning) (Center for Science Education, n.d.). How then, did the Earth return to what it is today if it was entirely frozen (i.e., all solar radiation reflected back due to ice creating a positive feedback loop to maintain the cold temperatures)? The answer lies within volcanic activity, which occurs regardless of the surface conditions (Young, 2009; BBC World, 2012). With this volcanic activity, ice melted and sulfur gas and carbon dioxide are released, which are very powerful greenhouse gasses (EPA, 2024). This gas increased the amount of heat absorbed in the atmosphere, which over time melted the ice caps enough for some areas of liquid water to occur, which, due to its high heat capacity, was able to return the Earth back to its normal climatic conditions (BBC World, 2012). 

While this example seems a little off topic, it greatly applies to the message I am trying to get across: nothing is promised, and the Earth is able to maintain itself, regardless of whether we are here or not. With this in mind, we are able to see that our mindset that we have conquered the Earth is not accurate, and if we keep using these limited resources as if they are unlimited, we are going to drive the world into something that we cannot return from; but the Earth can. 

This belief may seem to contradict what I said earlier about taking small steps, but I am viewing this as the end goal, whereas the small steps are the processes we need to take in order to reach this goal. This reinforces the importance of nature interpreters in being the guide for these small steps. We need to slowly introduce the topic to entice people to learn more, and we will eventually reach a point where those people will want to do something, which is where this second role of nature interpreters comes in. Therefore, nature interpreters can come in two varieties: those who are working with the naive, and those who are working with the knowledgeable. They both have the same end goal, they are just at different stages of the process.

Overall, this topic is something that is extremely important to me. I believe that understanding this might encourage others to change their mindset from viewing the Earth as something we control to something that we need to work with. The Earth is a self-maintaining system, and our attempts to mold its processes to suit ourselves is futile. We need to take a step back from our ego-centric lives and view everything as a whole, not just and ends to a means. This is the role I see for nature interpreters, and it is the role that I hope to achieve in the future. Our planet should be considered a safe haven, a gift; not something that we are in control of, but something that we are partnering with to sustain ourselves and our futures.

I hope you enjoyed reading about my beliefs on what I think it means to be a nature interpreter, and the responsibilities I feel we owe not just to ourselves, but to the Earth as a whole. I would love to hear your thoughts on this topic, and how our views might differ or coincide. Enjoy!

References

BBC World. (2012, December 23). Snowball Earth. Dailymotion. https://www.dailymotion.com/video/xw5nro 

Beck, L., Cable, T. T., & Knudson, D. M. (2018). Interpreting cultural and natural heritage: 

For A Better World. Sagamore Venture. 

Britannica, T. Editors of Encyclopaedia (2024, March 14). Snowball Earth hypothesis. Encyclopedia Britannica. https://www.britannica.com/science/Snowball-Earth-hypothesis

Center for Science Education. (n.d.). Climate Feedback Loops and Tipping Points. Feedback Loops Can Be Positive or Negative. https://scied.ucar.edu/learning-zone/earth-system/climate-system/feedback-loops-tipping-points 

Environmental Protection Agency. (2024, February 16). Overview of Greenhouse Gasses. Greenhouse Gas Emissions. https://www.epa.gov/ghgemissions/overview-greenhouse-gases#:~:text=In%20general%2C%20fluorinated%20gases%20are,nitrogen%20trifluoride%20(NF3). 

Lasseter, J. (Director). (1998). A Bug’s Life [Film]. Pixar

Ritchie, H. (2022, November 30). There have been five mass extinctions in Earth’s history. Our World in Data. https://ourworldindata.org/mass-extinctions#

Young, G. M. (2009). Snowball earth hypothesis. Encyclopedia of Earth Sciences Series, 907–910. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-4020-4411-3_211 

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Hi Daphne! I really enjoyed reading your post today! You really highlighted a topic (i.e., bioluminescence) that is interesting about nature, and your topic is definitely something that is so wonderful interesting about the world around us. I love the fact that there are bioluminescent organisms in the world, and it is honestly a fact that I forget about sometimes. I think that it is so amazing that you actually got to view it in person though! That is something that is definitely on my bucket list, so the fact that you have accomplished that already is astounding to me. The example of the bioluminescent waves that can occur in the ocean is the main example that I think of when considering bioluminescence, but I didn't really think about the fact that fireflies are also using a form of this. While I have in fact seen fireflies, I have not seen the dancing, colourfully glowing waves of the ocean, which is the main experience I am hoping to encounter one day. I love how you related this content to the reminder that the nature around us is beautiful in many different and diverse ways that we often overlook or, as I even am guilty of, forget about. I really enjoyed your post and found that it really highlighted something interesting about nature, exactly as our blog prompt inspired us to do. Overall, very well-written and I greatly enjoyed reading your cool facts about and anecdotes about bioluminescence in nature. Looking forward to you future blog posts!

Blog 8: The Wonders of Bioluminescence: Nature's Spectacular Light Show

Welcome back to my nature blog, fellow armchair explorers! Today, I want to take you on a journey into one of the most enchanting phenomena in the natural world: bioluminescence. Picture yourself sitting on a quiet beach at night, gazing out at the dark expanse of the ocean. Suddenly, the water begins to glow with an otherworldly blue-green light, as if thousands of stars have descended beneath the waves. This mesmerizing display is just one example of nature's incredible ability to astonish and inspire.

Bioluminescence is a fascinating form of chemiluminescence found in various marine organisms, from tiny plankton to large jellyfish and even some fish species. It occurs when certain chemicals within these organisms react with oxygen to produce light, resulting in a breathtaking natural light show that can be seen in oceans all around the world.

One of the most famous examples of bioluminescence is the phenomenon known as "sea sparkle," which occurs when billions of tiny dinoflagellates, a type of single-celled algae, light up the ocean with their bioluminescent glow. These microscopic organisms are found in abundance in coastal waters, where they play a vital role in marine ecosystems. When disturbed by waves or movement, the dinoflagellates release a burst of light, creating a magical spectacle that has captivated sailors and explorers for centuries.

But bioluminescence isn't just limited to the ocean – it can also be found in various terrestrial organisms, including fireflies, glowworms, and even certain fungi. Imagine walking through a dark forest illuminated by the soft glow of bioluminescent mushrooms, or watching as fireflies dance through the night sky like living fairy lights. These enchanting displays remind us of the beauty and wonder that can be found in even the darkest corners of the natural world.

As a nature enthusiast and avid explorer, witnessing bioluminescence in person has been one of the most awe-inspiring experiences of my life. It's a reminder that there are still mysteries to be uncovered and wonders to behold, right here on our own planet. So, the next time you find yourself gazing up at the stars or walking along the shore, take a moment to appreciate the magic of bioluminescence – nature's very own light show.

Until next time, keep exploring and never stop marveling at the wonders of the natural world!

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Blog 8: Fungi

Hi everyone! Welcome back to my blog post this week where I will be discussing the amazing world of fungi!

Fungi are one of the most diverse organisms on the planet and their kingdom comprises over 3.8 million species, including the biggest living organism on the planet known as the ‘honey mushroom’ (Riley, 2022)! Of these species, there are so many different niches they fall into as they have so many different functions in the world. On top of this, they can come in a variety of different shapes and colours which further increases their diversity. Considering how much (or I guess how little) might be known about this, I will just be discussing some of my favourite facts and uses of fungi in the world today.

Let’s return to my fact on how the biggest organism on the planet is a fungus. The honey fungus is estimated to be around 2,400 years old, but this estimate is unsure and there is a chance that it could be at least 8,650 years old which would make it the oldest organism on the planet as well (Casselman, 2007). The reason why this fungus is large is due to a network of fungal hyphae (similar to the roots of plants) which create a network called the mycelium from which the fruiting bodies of the fungus grows (Micropia, n.d.). The mycelium can spread over largely vast areas, and the mycelium of the honey fungus covers over 10 square kilometres (Casselman, 2007). Overall, the honey fungus is an extremely cool species of fungus, and I definitely encourage you to look into it more after reading this post. 

Fungi can have many different functions which can range from medicine, to food, to even hallucinogens. Mushrooms have been used to treat infection for many years, but today they are also used to treat lung diseases and cancer (National Cancer Institute, 2023). Studies are being completed to test whether fungi can reduce or stop the growth of tumours, specifically the polysaccharides (beta-glucans) in turkey tail mushrooms which are a type of fungus that grow worldwide on dead logs (National Cancer Institute, 2023). In terms of food, you might have heard of puffball mushrooms which can grow almost anywhere that their spores can spread to, but are very common in forested areas. These specific mushrooms are named perfectly as they look like a giant puffball or growing in a random area. Many people collect them from forests to use in their kitchen as they make a great pizza topper (and other uses). 

Fungi are insanely incredible organisms with a vast array of life history traits that can range anywhere from parasitism to symbiotic relationships. For example, there is a type of fungi in tropical forests which can create “zombie” ants. This specific fungi infects ants and slowly takes over its behaviour by encouraging it to leave its nest and find a more favourable climate to the fungus’ growth (Lu, 2019). The ant climbs at least 10 inches off the ground onto a plant where it sinks its jaws into the leaf and waits for death (Lu, 2019). From here, the fungus is able to sprout from the ant from which point it can produce more spores to infect ants and the process begins again. 

I hope you enjoyed learning some fun facts about the amazing nature of fungi today! They are honestly one of my favourite types of plants, even though they technically are not a plant. Let me know if you have any other cool facts you’d like to share about fungi or any other thoughts you might have. See you next week!

References

Casselman, A. (2007, October 4). Strange but true: The largest organism on Earth is a fungus. Scientific American. https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/strange-but-true-largest-organism-is-fungus/ 

Lu, J. (2019, April 18). How a parasitic fungus turns ants into “zombies.” Animals. https://www.nationalgeographic.com/animals/article/cordyceps-zombie-fungus-takes-over-ants 

Mycelium. Micropia. (n.d.). https://www.micropia.nl/en/discover/microbiology/mycelium/#:~:text=A%20mycelium%20is%20a%20network,can%20sprout%20from%20a%20mycelium. 

National Cancer Institute. (2023, June 8). Mushrooms. National Cancer Institute. https://www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/treatment/cam/patient/mushrooms-pdq#:~:text=They%20have%20been%20used%20to,treatments%20in%20Japan%20and%20China. 

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05: The ways nature has impacted me? (free prompt)

I believe that spending time in nature offers numerous physical, mental, and emotional benefits. During the summer, I have complete access to nature trails and may spend countless hours outdoors. There may be obstacles such as weather and restricted access to these areas in the winter for our own safety. During the academic year, I attributed my lack of drive to a lack of time spent outside. I find that when I lose motivation, my other positive behaviours fall out of sync. I spend less time exercising, my dietary intake becomes more unhealthy, my sleep schedule becomes disorganized, and I feel inconsistent.  

This year, I decided to take control of my winter, knowing that these changes usually occur during this time of year. I wanted to find strategies to maintain a balanced diet, get enough and high-quality sleep, and have a regular gym regimen while also attending school and maintaining good grades. So I'd like to share some changes I made to my routine to ensure improved habits. 

My first major shift was to devote 30-60 minutes every day to outside activities. Now, I cannot say that I do this every day without fail, but I have been able to do so at least 5 days per week. It helps me to organize my thoughts without having to focus on schoolwork. During this period, I would either softly jog to get some physical activity in or take a walk along the trails in my neighbourhood. I would listen to a podcast, whether it was about amusement, learning, motivation, or self-discipline, to help pass the time. I believe this helped me relieve some of my tension and allowed me to unplug from school.

As we discussed several times throughout the course, the nature trails within the Aboretum made incorporating this practice into my day a breeze. After class, before leaving for home, I take a little walk through the Aboretum to reorganize after a few hours of classes. I sometimes have friends join me, which makes it much more pleasurable because we spend the most of our time on campus together studying. If you don't already, I recommend using the Arboretum to break up your day and get your mind off of school.

I also told myself this year that I would keep a consistent sleep routine. To ensure that I am properly refreshed, I try to get at least 8 hours of sleep each night. Again, are there times when I don't get a complete 8 hours? Of course. However, for the most part, I have been able to prioritize my personal health over academics, and I no longer have to pull all-nighters to complete projects. This has not only allowed me to be properly rested, but it has also taught me how to better manage my time during the day, decrease screen time, and focus on the tasks at hand. 

As a fellow student, I understand how tough it is to maintain healthy habits when there are so many assignments due each week, but it is critical that we remember to take care of ourselves. You may even discover that prioritizing your personal health during the school year has an impact on your academic performance. Can any of you think of a moment when you implemented new habits and saw improvements in your daily life?

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Hi Grace!

I loved reading your post this week! I felt that you described music in nature in such a beautiful and eloquent way. It felt like you were painting a picture of your viewpoint, and I was carried along through your words in my ability to see that picture perfectly. Specifically when you compared the sounds of nature to a symphony, I felt that I could almost hear the rustling of tree branches in the wind, or gentle crashing of waves along a shoreline. I had never viewed it in such a vivid way before, but your metaphor really helped me to visualize and define the beauty of the sounds of nature. In my own post, I compared the music of nature to that of a bird's song, but I did not even think about the other sounds of nature that you might not initially associate with music. Personally, I feel like a great example of this would be the quiet that you can experience at the top of a mountain. While there are no sounds due to the distance from civilization, there is almost a music or art in the silence, and it is so peaceful to experience. These aspects of nature are the ones I did not consider when thinking about the music associated with nature, and I love that you wrote your post about them in order to complete my view of said music. Overall, I think your post was beautifully written and that you were able to take readers on a journey through sharing your own personal experience and opinions.

Thanks for the great post! Looking forward to your future blogs!

07: Music in nature.

Hi everyone! As someone who loves both music and nature, I’m excited to talk about this week’s prompt! I've found myself captivated by the connections between music and nature in the past, and It's a topic that's as fascinating as it is deep. When we ask, "Where is music in nature? Where is nature in music?" we're really diving into the core of how we interpret and understand both. 

Nature is like the ultimate composer in a way. From the rhythmic crash of waves to the gentle rustle of leaves in the wind, it’s almost like a whole symphony out there. And it's not just about inspiration; nature's sounds can actually shape the way we create music. If you listen to the works of Beethoven or Debussy, you can practically feel the influence of the natural world woven into their compositions. 

In modern music, the influence of nature can be heard across a wide array of genres and styles. Take, for instance, the Icelandic post-rock band Sigur Rós, whose soundscapes often revolve around the beauty of their homeland's landscapes. In songs like "Sæglópur," layers of shimmering guitars and haunting vocals create a sense of vastness and wonder, making listeners imagine fjords and tundras. Even in electronic music, artists like Björk incorporate elements of nature into their compositions, using field recordings of wind, water, and wildlife to add depth and texture to their songs.

Music, in turn, also becomes a way for us to interpret and express the essence of nature (Hooykaas, 2024). Whether it's through a beautiful orchestral piece or the melody of a piano, music has an incredible ability to evoke the feelings and sensations we experience in the great outdoors (Hooykaas, 2024). It can even be like taking an audio journey through forests, mountains, and oceans without ever leaving your seat. So, when we talk about nature interpretation, we're also talking about how we interpret the sounds and rhythms of the world around us, and how we use music to capture and communicate those interpretations. It's a beautiful cycle of inspiration and expression that speaks to the deep connection between humans and the natural world. 

One song that immediately reminds me of a natural landscape is “Landslide” by The Chicks. This is a cover of the song originally written by Stevie Nicks of Fleetwood Mac. With this version by The Chicks being a country song, it’s much different than the rock/metal I usually listen to, but it’s a song that has always stuck with me. Me and my mom like to go for drives out in the country roads/backgrounds, and she always plays this song on those little trips. I find that this song really fits with the rolling hills, vast open fields, and blue skies that I see when we go on those drives. Now that I can drive too I like to go for drives out in the country, and I play this song everytime! It’s a great listen, and really adds to the scenery. The song itself has many lyrics that relate to nature as well.

Overall, as someone who's passionate about both music and nature, I'm amazed by the ways in which these two things are so connected. Whether I'm listening to a symphony or taking a hike in the woods, I can't help but feel like I'm tapping into something bigger than myself, and that's what makes exploring the relationship between music and nature so rewarding!

Hooykaas, A. (2024). Unit 7: Nature interpretation through music. University of Guelph. https://courselink.uoguelph.ca/d2l/le/content/858004/viewContent/3640021/View

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Launching Into Nature Interpretation

Hey Everyone! My name is Evan, in my last semester here at Guelph. Welcome to my blog:)

My current relationship with nature seems to be transitioning from a purely physical perspective to one that strives to learn more about the ins and outs of what makes things possible, and the purpose behind it. Why do certain trees grow in certain environments? Why are certain plants and mushrooms edible and others poisonous? Did we really go through thousands of generations with people eating a certain plant, dying as a result, and now being taught not to eat that certain plant through word of mouth? These are some of the types of questions I ponder as my current relationship with nature grows.

Besides this, my physical relationship with nature now consists of going on hikes with friends, foraging or just finding different shrubs, trees, or fungi, and since the completion of my program, viewing the natural landscape as a medium for sustainable designs. I just finished my program in Landscape Architecture and now finishing up electives. My hope is that I can take what I have gained and apply that knowledge to interpreting nature for others.  At this point in my life I feel so educated about nature and at the same time feel like I have barely scratched the surface.

I discovered these little guys on a walk when I was living in my student house in Guelph. Based on the fact that it was during winter months and growing on a dead piece of hardwood, I'm fairly certain these are Flammulina velutipes, commonly known as velvet shank or enoki mushrooms (they are edible and choice but I'm only a beginner so I just got this cool picture instead)

The wonderful thing about my current relationship with nature is that I never used to think this way. As a kid, I never thought about the purpose behind things in nature, I just assumed a thing is a thing because it grows and that’s it. I believe my perspective towards nature has evolved through experience. Experiencing climbing trees, falling off trees, trying to catch frogs in a local pond, or using a torch to burn a leach off my leg because I was trying to catch frogs in a local pond. I was fortunate enough to grow up in a middle-class household, and so my old home used to back onto a small ravine and mixed deciduous forest.

Every day after school, my brother and I would put on our waterproof boots, maybe pack a granola bar in the pocket for a snack later, and we would just walk. Walk into the forest, straying away from any desired lines, making your own path, jumping in puddles, listening to birds chirping, or getting hit in the face with a buckthorn branch because your brother didn’t wait for you. We would just walk and talk until there was no more forest to be found or until we stumbled upon the next subdivision of neighborhoods. I truly believe this is where my appreciation and curiosity for nature was born. 

A little blurry but I think it still gets the point across lol. My brother on the right and myself on the left after one of the many afterschool hikes.

When thinking about how one develops a sense of place, it typically can happen in more than one setting, and even under different contexts. For me, my sense of place stems from two major experiences in my life so far. The first, already mentioned above, but I really found such bliss going on hikes and walking in the forest behind my childhood home. It’s hard to describe the feeling, but it feels like you are transported into an entirely new world, where you experience taking your first steps past the forest edge, the wind no longer hitting your face and this calm silence grows until it becomes a peaceful white noise. I really felt like this forest was part of my home; I used to call it my backyard when I was younger because it really allowed me to find comfort in nature.

The second experience is going to my cottage every year. For context, my cottage sits on the shores of Georgian Bay, in Lion’s Head, Ontario. My grandad’s father bought the property in 1939, where they moved their little old trailer onto, and built the most vintage-looking bungalow which I now call my cottage. Georgian Bay is an incredible location, I may be biased but if you haven’t been there I highly suggest it. Connected to the Bruce trails and a part of the Niagara Escarpment, this environment offered a radically different landscape than where I grew up, even though it’s only about four hours northwest. The rocky limestones coupled with blue shale make this environment unforgettable and have allowed me to experience having a sense of place in a completely different environment than what I’m used to. Thanks for reading and see you on the next blog:)

View of the Niagara Escarpment at Lion's Head Provincial Park, Ontario

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Blog post 4: Nature interpretation through art.

As a nature “adventurer” I find a deep connection with nature through personal experiences, particularly through hikes and shared nature experiences with my dog. I interpret the beauty of the natural world in a deeply experiential manner. Nature is not an abstract concept to be but it is interpreted by living, breathing entities that I can physically engage with. 

The act of hiking and exploring through quiet trails allows me to immerse myself in nature and all it has to offer. I find myself speaking a language with nature found in the sounds of rustling leaves, flowing streams and rivers, and distant birds singing their songs. 

The relationship I have with nature has grown since owning my dog. The companionship of having Griffin by my side adds another layer to my interpretation. It helps with my connections between living beings and the environment. These quiet moments I experience on the trial provide us with a sense of peace and perspective that is special to me. These moments enhance my view of and appreciation of beauty. 

In summary my interpretation revolves around the physical engagement with nature making my experiences one of a kind and a truly special experience. I see the gift of beauty in the sounds and sights found in these natural settings which help further connect me with nature. This connection extends past the visual aesthetics. I believe the gift of beauty is a personal experience which will be felt differently by each individual and how they interpret natural settings that help foster their connections to nature that extend past the visual appeal. Personal experiences have the ability to persuade ones interpretation of its beauty through art.

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Unpacking the World of Privilege

Hi everyone!

Welcome back to my third blog post!

So far, we’ve talked about more light hearted subjects such as my evolutionary relationship with nature, my personal experiences with nature and my ideal world as an environmental interpreter and what that would entail. In this week's post, I am going to reflect on what role privilege plays in nature interpretation and how I have experienced forms of privilege within my own life.  As we head into this weeks blog post, I acknowledge that myself and those who read this, might feel moments of discomfort or uneasiness however, I believe this to be an important topic to reflect on. 

To begin, privilege to me is the advantages and benefits that come with having a certain identity such as race, gender, or economic status that often provides easier access to opportunities, resources and overall a heightened sense of well-being and success. As mentioned in the readings this week, many individuals born into more privileged environments, “are not taught to recognize their own privileges,” and after reflecting on my own life, I’ve realized that there are many ‘invisible backpacks’ I carry that I haven’t truly recognized (Gallavan, 2005). To get personal and transparent, I am white, middle class, speak English, was able to get a University degree with help from my family, was not born with physical or cognitive disabilities and wake up each day with a roof over my head and food on the table. Although many of these things might seem small or trivial, the impact they can hold is significant without even realising it. 

An experience in my life where I truly realized my own privilege, was when I volunteered at Kids Ability to assist in a swim program for children with disabilities. I learned through my time assisting these children that there are barriers and obstacles they face that do not make them any less of a person, but that gives a person like me an amplitude of challenges I will never have to face. If I connect this topic to the world of nature interpretation, the concept of privilege is particularly important when considering individuals with disabilities as they may face various barriers that affect their ability to access and interpret the natural world around them. For example, physical access to natural spaces that lack wheelchair ramps or accessible trails or inadequate visual or tactile tools such as braille or audio descriptions. As mentioned in the textbook, it is important as nature interpreters to integrate all audiences by providing opportunities for building social skills for those with and without disabilities while also recognizing our own privilege we carry in relation to those around us. Some suggested examples of proper etiquette when working with people with disabilities are: don’t “talk down’ to a person with a disability, speak in a normal tone of voice, be patient and encouraging, do not lean on a wheelchair or any other assistive device, offer assistance only when permission is given, etc (Beck, 2018). Most importantly, as an interpreter it is important to treat every person in your audience the way you would want to be treated and in regard to people with disabilities, “interpreting to people with disabilities involves getting people to participate and learn by building on their knowledge, interests, and skills, just as with any group of visitors!” (Beck, 2018). 

Thank you for reading and I hope you were able to take something away from this post, whether that be reflecting on your own privilege or gaining more knowledge on how to interact with those around you. As always, treat others the way you want to be treated and be kind!!!!!

Cheers, Natalie 

References:

Gallavan, N. P. (2005). Helping teachers unpack their "invisible knapsacks". Multicultural Education, 13(1), 36. https://link-gale-com.subzero.lib.uoguelph.ca/apps/doc/A137921591/AONE?u=guel77241&sid=bookmark-AONE&xid=9fe2f151

Beck, L., Cable, T.T., & Knudson, D.M. (2018). Interpreting cultural and natural heritage: for a better world. Sagamore Publishing.

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I bet you're wondering why I added a photo of a tiger (the photo is my own, please no copyright stuff!)... I figured it was the best way to explain how I feel about what I feel is the ideal role of an environmental interpreter. I feel like these roles are best played out by conservationists as they understand best what does and does not fit in an environment. For example, what invasive species (plants, insects, animals) are affecting the area around us? Are there endangered species? Perhaps an overpopulation of something? I feel conservationists can identify these things through a scan of a set area and work with this to educate the public on matters. From there, the public can learn and replicate information learned and continue their own nature interpretation. I fondly remember camping as a child and attending 'Nature Centre's' that would often have talks/events about plants and animals within the area. I feel like this encompasses how I interpret an 'environmental interpreter'. With this, I also feel zookeepers and those working hard to reverse the effects of endangerment and so on also represent environmental interpreters. These individuals and groups take their observations and reflect it into a learning opportunity to move forward in conservation efforts.

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Blog 7: Music in Nature

Hi everyone, welcome back to my blog post this week! Today we will be discussing the music that is present in nature and vice versa, the nature that is present in music.

When reading the course's content this week, I really enjoyed the section on Ben Mirin and his recordings of nature in birdsong, or of the rainforest in the clip provided online, he made into short beatboxing performances. I thought that this example really portrayed what it meant to be a nature interpreter where you are using something that is meaningful to you and, by expressing it in your own unique way, sharing your experience with others. From this, many people will get to experience nature in some way through a guided lens which will hopefully encourage them to continue their interest moving forwards. I like to view nature interpretation as a flowing cycle because of this where you are passionate about something and just want to share that passion with others, and maybe some of those people will be motivated to become their own nature interpreters.

Looking back at Ben's music, this is such a unique way to connect others with nature, and that is why I think that it was included in this weeks content: to show that nature interpretation can come in many unique forms, and there is no one correct way to do it. Ben utilized his own passion for birding to create something new that he could share with others, and I loved the outcome and the glowing feedback he received in response.

From this, where do I find music in nature? The main thing that I thought of when reading that blog prompt was in bird song. This morning I woke up to the sound of birds singing, which was so refreshing to hear after the long winter of waking up to only traffic. I have always deeply enjoyed birdwatching, and the spring is always my favourite season because of the birds' return. I love going on short walks around my neighbourhood's trails because I am always accompanied by the joyous birdsong along the way. There is just something so relaxing in listening to the birds singing in the trees, and I love taking a moment to be present and just listening to them.

My favourite experience has been my early morning kayak rides with my mum while camping up in Algonquin. During these times we often hear a loon crooning off in the distance. It is such a hauntingly beautiful sound, and it is one of my favourite parts of camping in Northern Ontario.

Nature in music I feel is a bit trickier to find, and in my opinion, you have to be looking for it to find it. Not many songs use nature sounds in music, or at least not many of the popular ones on the radio. Many are electronic sounds and such, but some artists have a talent for incorporating them into their music. In particular, one of my favourite artists is Of Monsters and Men, whose famous song a couple years back was Little Talks, if you are unfamiliar with them. Their music is one of the ways I feel taken back into nature. My favourite song in particular is Slow and Steady, which opens up with some distant bird calls in the background. I love listening to this song on my record play on the vinyl I own of it as I feel it "hits harder" in that way. It's just such a relaxing song feels similar to how bird song affects me.

Overall, I love the idea of using music as a medium for nature interpretation, and I loved looking into how I find nature in music and vice versa. Let me know what some go your favourite songs are that you feel takes you back to nature?

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Blog 6: History Through Nature Interpretation

Hi everyone! Welcome back to my sixth blog post this semester! Today we will be talking about history through nature interpretation, and how you can utilize aspects such as words, pictures, or sights to bring together pieces of the past to tell a story.

In the course content, we were given a simple but powerful quote that relates to today's topic. It states, "There is no particular merit in ancient things, but there is merit in integrity, and integrity entails a knowledge, a memory of ancient things... To think, feel, or act as though the past is done with, is equivalent to believing that a railway station through which our train has just passed, only existed for as long as our train was in it." This is a quote by Edward Hyams in Chapter 7 of his book, The Gifts of Interpretation. To fully understand it and grasp its meaning, you might have to read it a few times over and really marinate with the words. To me, I felt that each word was chosen here with a specific purpose to send an overall message, which I am going to interpret for you today. This will give you my overall take-home thoughts of this quote, but yours might be completely different, and I'd love to hear your thoughts if this is the case.

I love the first line of the post which states that "there is no particular merit in ancient things." This might bring about the question, why do they hold so much value then? I think that this is incredibly important thing to point out because if you think about an ancient object, such as a vase or a bowl, it really has no specific value. The value associated with it can only be appreciated when you take into account its history. Not knowing that this specific object was created by humankind, our ancestors, would make it almost meaningless. However, when you take into account the effort that was put into making it, the time it was made, and how long it has been preserved for, it gives you an almost out of body and grounding experience. Our ancestors did not have ovens or kilns to set the pottery, they had to find other ways to build these vases. Indigenous groups in particular were nomads, they travelled from place to place over their lives. They couldn't carry an entire vase with them, and so they would have to create the again and again, showing the effort that went into each one. Therefore, this line which says that this merit can only be appreciated when you have the knowledge or memories of ancient things is truly accurate here because you cannot appreciate something unless you understand the entire story behind it.

To bring all of these concepts together, the author provides a simile which says that thinking the past is not connected to who and what we are today is the same as thinking that the train station your train passes through only exists when you are there, and ceases to exist when you are not. I think that this really drives home his message because not acknowledging our history and the steps past people took in advancements of science, medicine, and art is a disservice to those people. We would not be here today for some of the discoveries made in our past, and ignoring this is a limiting mindset to our advancements today.

Overall, I think that this quote brings to light the fact that knowing our history is an important aspect of nature interpretation. People go about their lives not understanding the history behind the land they live on. There is so much history associated with every aspect of our lives, and knowing, appreciating, and learning about this is the first step to nature interpretation.

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Blog 5: Untitled

Hi everyone! Welcome back to my blog post! Today I will be discussing the importance of nature for mental health, and how this relates to nature interpretation.

Mental illnesses such as depression or anxiety are something that many people suffer from every day. Of these people, the majority cannot or do not seek help and instead go through silent battles alone hidden from their loved ones. Anxiety and depression are often relentless in how they affect people and make small tasks such as getting out of bed, eating, or even going outside extremely difficult. Because of this, it is important to pay close attention to your loved ones, and know how to help them when they are incapable of helping themselves.

Spending time in nature is a great way to improve both mental health and self esteem (Hart, 2016). Additionally, exposure to nature has been linked to improved cognitive function, brain activity, blood pressure, mental health, physical activity, and sleep (Jimenez et al., 2021). Therefore, going outside for a quick walk in a natural area, or even just sitting outside in your backyard have great benefits to not just your mental health, but your physical health as well. Knowing the importance of this relationship between nature and your health is important when caring for oneself and others. If you or a loved one are struggling with depression or anxiety, a great way to take a break and reset is going outside.

Nature interpretation by guides or other professionals are an important part of this process. Many people struggle to get outside because of the energy associated with doing so. This does not mean they don't want to, but the endeavour is associated with too much energy, and so they avoid it. Social media is a good outlet for this where nature interpreters can make social accounts to provide information to people on the importance of getting outside in nature. Additionally, they could also record themselves taking hikes and the incredible views they access at the end of it, which could encourage others to do similar activities. Lastly, people who work at provincial parks or other protected natural areas could post things about their favourite places to go in the park or activities that are available there, further enticing individuals to explore the area. All of these options are good ways to provide information as well as tips to people.

Overall, this is a topic that is particularly close to my heart because I struggle with anxiety myself, and I love connecting with nature as a way to relax and de-stress. I love camping and hiking, and I always feel so much lighter when I am outdoors. Nature provides huge benefits to mental health, and informing people of this and providing ideas of what to do outside are a great step in encouraging individuals to venture out.

References

Hart, J. (2016). Prescribing nature therapy for improved mental health. Alternative and Complimentary Therapies, 22(4), 161-163. https://doi.org/10.1089/act.2016.29067.jha.

Jimenez, M. P., DeVille, N. V., Elliot, E. G., Schiff, J. E., Wilt, G. E., Hart, J. E., & James, P. (2021). Associations between nature exposure and health: A review of the evidence. National Library of Medicine, 18(9), 4790. 10.3390/ijerph18094790.

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Blog 4: Nature and Art

Hi everyone! Welcome back to my fourth blog post for this semester! Today we'll be talking about nature interpretation and art.

Art has always been something that I've had a deep appreciation for, but it has also been something that feels just out of my reach. While I would love to be able to paint or draw, I am absolutely awful at it. One thing that always frustrated me about this was while I was out and about on hikes or nature walks, I always wanted to be able to capture the beauty before me, but I would never be able to do so. Especially considering the fact that not all pictures are able to capture everything properly or the way that you see it with the naked eye. While I am still untalented in this sense, I know that I am still able to appreciate artwork.

All other things aside, artwork is not always a something physical that you can hold like a photograph or a painting. Often, art can be something that you can only see, but not take back with you, such as a view on a hike. In this sense, the view is something that you work hard to get to, and so it feels that much more rewarding when you see it. Because of this, it feels like a gift at the end of your hard work, and this gift makes everything that much more rewarding. In times like this, I like to really take the time to take the entire view in, snap a few pictures for memories, and just relax and enjoy everything that went into getting to my destination.

Overall, artwork is often all around us, from a garden in your backyard to a nature walk at a provincial park, it just takes a person's ability to stop and smell the roses to be able to fully appreciate it and take it all in.

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Blog 3: Risk vs. Reward in Interpretation

Hi everyone! Welcome back to my third blog post of this term!

Today's topic is heavier than previous ones as we will be discussing the role privilege has on nature interpretation. Before delving into this topic, we first must understand the definition of privilege. Oxford's dictionary defines privilege as "a special right, advantage, or immunity granted or available only to a particular person or group." With this in mind, we can ask ourselves, how does privilege impact nature interpretation?

Experiencing nature is often a privilege that many people take for granted. Looking at the small scale, someone who lives in a major city, such as Toronto, would not be given the same ease of experiencing nature as someone who lives in Muskoka or other rural areas. While they are still able to go outdoors or venture outside of the city for these experiences, it is a lot more energy intensive to do so than if you were living in the country where there is often immediate access to these conditions. From here, we could look even more small scale at the differences between these individuals, such as their mental health, disabilities, access to transportation, age, health conditions, etc. These differences are often what limit people from experiencing nature the same way that the majority does. For example, a person in a wheelchair would not be able to experience hikes in the same way an able-bodied person can. This shows that within these two different scales, there are even more divisions that alter how much privilege a person has to experience the nature around them.

Altering our view to looking more large scale, we can look at the difference between countries at peace and those at war. Here, we have the ability to venture out of our homes to experience nature through hikes, skiing, and many other activities. In countries stricken with war, those activities are likely memories for them that the cherish and hope to one day experience again. There, they do not have the freedom to leave the safety of their homes for the risks associated with it; risks that we do not have or could not even fathom here. An example of this is with World War II, where many Jewish children in hiding would recall when they were able to go outside and play with their friends, but it was something they could not experience then due to the dangers imposed with venturing outside. It is this privilege that we often forget about in our everyday lives, but it is something that we should acknowledge and appreciate.

After looking into how there can be many different levels of privilege, it provides a whole new meaning to our own experiences. I myself was given the privilege of being able to travel and camp throughout my life, something that I am very grateful for, but also something that I know was a privilege others might not have been able to experience. It is therefore important to not only be able to appreciate our experiences with nature, but to also not take them for granted.

Thank you for reading!

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Blog 2: Ideal Role as an Environmental Interpreter

Hi everyone! Welcome back to my blog where today I will be discussing my ideal role as an Environmental Interpreter!

First, what is an environmental interpreter? From my understanding of the course content and readings, an interpreter is someone who provides a sense of place or meaning to something. This implies that an environmental interpreter is someone who allows people to understand and feel welcome in nature. In other words, they bridge the gap between people and the environment by guiding them through the experience and ensuring they feel welcomed, accepted, and at home throughout it.

From my personal definition, I feel that my ideal role as an environmental interpreter would be someone who allows people to gain new experiences and guide them through it along the way. I would love to see the wonder and appreciation in people's eyes as they view and learn about a new natural feature or organism, such as a glacier or a humpback whale. Thinking about this reminds me of all the people who have been environmental interpreters to me throughout my travels across Canada.

When I was visiting Newfoundland for the first time with my parents, we went on a whale watching tour. During this time, we saw 4 humpback whales who seemed to be very curious about our boat. We watched them swim under the boat, come up for air metres beside the boat, almost close enough to touch, and breach the water a safe distance from us. I remember this clearly even though I was only six at the time. During the trip, our guide explained facts about the whales and our relationship with them through history, touching on how we almost drove them to extinction due to our carelessness and exploitative behaviours in the past. We went past small icebergs in the water, and he even picked a piece of one that floated past our boat which he gave to me and I felt so happy to hold my own piece of an iceberg. It is this experience that I want to be able to give to people myself.

Our tour guide in Newfoundland covered all the important aspects of an environmental interpreter: he guided us throughout our journey and made us feel welcome; he provided us with information of the whales we were viewing which allowed us to gain a deeper understanding of them; and he discussed our difficult past with the whales. The first aspect provided us a sense of space where we felt safe to enjoy our experience. The second provided us with a sense of value to the beautiful creatures we were viewing. The last aspect gave us a sense of justice and responsibility for the whales in wanting to protect them. All three aspects provided a guided path towards gaining appreciation for whales that might not have been there before, and a sense of urgency for wanting to protect them in the future.

Overall, this would be my ideal role as a nature interpreter. Someone who not only guides people along a journey, but who teaches people about the importance of it, giving them something to take home with them that might change their views on the world and hopefully shift their actions to greener and more sustainable ones.

Enjoy some photos from the trip below, and me holding a small piece of an iceberg :)