Elaine Smith and Dave Forrer assisting with the tree inventory at Edith J. Carrier Arboretum. Photo by Ali Sloop. The tree inventory on campus this year will primarily focus on assisting the E.J.C. Arboretum with inventorying the trees (of a certain size) in the woods and gardens there. Over 1,000 trees were inventoried by master…
Spongy Moth caterpillar. Photo by Virginia Department of Forestry. The spongy moth, previously known as the gypsy moth, is an invasive species causing significant ecological and economic damage in Virginia. Originating from Europe, it was accidentally introduced to North America in the late 19th century. The larvae of this moth are voracious feeders, primarily targeting…
Did you know that in 2023, VMN volunteers contributed 11,804 hours of stewardship, education, and participatory science at 28 parks of Virginia’s 42 State Parks? Virginia State Parks would love to have more VMN volunteers assisting with their interpretive programs, stewardship projects, and other activities. By the way, it is fine to count service hours…
Cornell University’s NestWatch program is a treasure trove for bird enthusiasts and citizen scientists alike. Through NestWatch, participants across North America contribute valuable data by monitoring nesting birds in their local areas. This citizen science initiative not only helps researchers better understand bird populations and behaviors but also provides a platform for people of all…
Turks Cap Lily. Photo by Shenandoah National Park Spring wildflowers are at the heart of Shenandoah National Park’s 38th annual Wildflower Weekend celebration! Guided hikes and programs will focus on the diversity and importance of not only hundreds of species of flowering plants that are protected by the park, but other seasonal changes as well. …
Virginia Master Naturalists Headwaters Chapter 