microorganisms that inhabit the natural environment.
Tours are held on Tuesday and Thursday mornings from October to May. Two classes arrive at 10 a.m. The children are divided into groups of 15; a volunteer naturalist accompanies each group. During their two-hour walk, students have an opportunity to use microscopes to observe microorganisms, and telescopes and binoculars to watch birds and their behavior. They also will walk through the wet-lands with naturalists leading the discussion of wetlands and the interdependence of all living things. Volunteer naturalists are asked to lead at least two tours per month between October and May.
Educational outreach volunteers visit local classrooms prior to the field trips. The visit lasts approximately one and a half hours.
Training sessions cover wetland ecology, birds, native plants and animals, the food chain and interpretive techniques. Each participant will receive a comprehensive training manual. The training program is free to Audubon members, and $20 for non-members, which includes membership. There also is a small refundable materials fee.
Contact Barbara Courtois at (310) 379-4669 or Cindy Hardin (310) 301-0050 for more information.
Originally published in the Santa Monica Daily Press print edition on July 15, 2005. Read the original PDF.