Curriculum & Certificationsnr.unl.edu/naturalist/Documents/MNoutlines.pdf · Curriculum &...

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Curriculum & Certification The format for our training and certification process has undergone review and change, to broaden our program appeal and convenience, and to increase participation. After reviewing applications for the Nebraska Master Naturalist Program, the Training Assistant schedules and conducts an interview with each applicant. This step ensures that the program is right for the applicant, by explaining the program structure and expectations. Each applicant must also agree to a formal background security check and review of their driving record, for the purpose of public safety, since Master Naturalists will be volunteering with children and adults, through our partner agencies and organizations. Once the candidate agrees, a Core Training Class date is assigned, depending on availability and space. NOTE: The Training Dates and Locations for 2015 will be announced on November 7, 2014. Please check back, in order to apply for your preferred date(s). The initial Core Training Class consists of 24 total hours of class instruction at one training site, led by professionals in each field, including hands-on activities. The fee for this bloc of instruction is $150 and covers these basic topics: 1. Intro to Flora and Fauna of Nebraska 2. Intro to the non-living Environment of Nebraska 3. Intro to Outdoor Skills 4. Intro to Environmental Education 5. Intro to Interpretation 6. Safety in the Field Following the introductory classes, the “Naturalist-in-Training” must then complete an additional 36 hours of further, in-depth instruction in any of these four Key Areas of Expertise within the next six months to a year, in order to certify: 1. Citizen Science 2. Resource Management 3. Outdoor Skills 4. Environmental Education and Interpretation No single training course will count for more than four hours of credit. Trainees can also cross-train in a combination of these subject areas to certify as a Nebraska Master Naturalist. The certifying pathway toward certain Key Areas could potentially require an extended process, depending on the availability of desired courses within a given year. Workshops and training sessions in these areas will be held at various locations around the state, and will require a separate registration and fee for each, which may vary in cost. Scholarships may also be offered. “Naturalists-in-Training” are also obligated to fulfill at least 20 hours of volunteer service during the first year and each year thereafter, along with 8 hours of continuing education, to re-certify in the program.

Transcript of Curriculum & Certificationsnr.unl.edu/naturalist/Documents/MNoutlines.pdf · Curriculum &...

Page 1: Curriculum & Certificationsnr.unl.edu/naturalist/Documents/MNoutlines.pdf · Curriculum & Certification The format for our training and certification process has undergone review

Curriculum & Certification

The format for our training and certification process has undergone review and change, to broaden our

program appeal and convenience, and to increase participation.

After reviewing applications for the Nebraska Master Naturalist Program, the Training Assistant

schedules and conducts an interview with each applicant. This step ensures that the program is right for

the applicant, by explaining the program structure and expectations.

Each applicant must also agree to a formal background security check and review of their driving

record, for the purpose of public safety, since Master Naturalists will be volunteering with children and

adults, through our partner agencies and organizations. Once the candidate agrees, a Core Training

Class date is assigned, depending on availability and space.

NOTE: The Training Dates and Locations for 2015 will be announced on November 7, 2014. Please

check back, in order to apply for your preferred date(s).

The initial Core Training Class consists of 24 total hours of class instruction at one training site, led by

professionals in each field, including hands-on activities. The fee for this bloc of instruction is $150 and

covers these basic topics:

1. Intro to Flora and Fauna of Nebraska

2. Intro to the non-living Environment of Nebraska

3. Intro to Outdoor Skills

4. Intro to Environmental Education

5. Intro to Interpretation

6. Safety in the Field

Following the introductory classes, the “Naturalist-in-Training” must then complete an additional 36

hours of further, in-depth instruction in any of these four Key Areas of Expertise within the next six

months to a year, in order to certify:

1. Citizen Science

2. Resource Management

3. Outdoor Skills

4. Environmental Education and Interpretation

No single training course will count for more than four hours of credit. Trainees can also cross-train in a

combination of these subject areas to certify as a Nebraska Master Naturalist. The certifying pathway

toward certain Key Areas could potentially require an extended process, depending on the availability of

desired courses within a given year.

Workshops and training sessions in these areas will be held at various locations around the state, and

will require a separate registration and fee for each, which may vary in cost. Scholarships may also be

offered.

“Naturalists-in-Training” are also obligated to fulfill at least 20 hours of volunteer service during the

first year and each year thereafter, along with 8 hours of continuing education, to re-certify in the

program.

Page 2: Curriculum & Certificationsnr.unl.edu/naturalist/Documents/MNoutlines.pdf · Curriculum & Certification The format for our training and certification process has undergone review

Mammals of Nebraska 

I. 10:30 – 10:45 What is a mammal?  

II. 10:45 – 11:30 Ecology, Form, Function, and Behavior  

a. Skeletons and Skulls  

i. Diet 

ii. Teeth 

b. Body Forms 

i. Climate and Shape     

ii. Tracks 

iii. Microhabitats  

iv. Defecation 

c. Special Adaptations  

i. Bats and Shrews  

ii. Rodents (also talk about hibernation) 

iii. Ground Squirrels       

iv. Mustelids  

III. 11:30 – 12:00, 1:00 – 1:30  Nebraska Mammals  

a. Bats and Marsupials (also talk about distemper)  

b. Insectivores (shrews), Rodents and Lagomorphs (also talk about hantavirus, lime 

disease)  

c. Mesocarnivores (Felines, Canines, Raccoons) (also talk about rabies)  

d. Ungulates  

IV. 1:30 – 2:00   Wildlife/Human Interaction  

Page 3: Curriculum & Certificationsnr.unl.edu/naturalist/Documents/MNoutlines.pdf · Curriculum & Certification The format for our training and certification process has undergone review

Mammals of Nebraska 

a. Conservation (otters, bison, black‐footed ferret) 

b. Habitat Destruction 

c. Extirpation 

d. Re‐introductions 

e. Wildlife Damage Control 

V. Nebraska Mammals 

a. Bats and Marsupials 

b. Insectivores (shrews), Rodents and Lagomorphs  

c. Mesocarnivores (Felines, Canines, Raccoons) 

d. Ungulates  

VI. Wildlife/Human Interaction  

a. Conservation (otters, bison, black‐footed ferret) 

b. Habitat Destruction 

c. Extirpation 

d. Re‐introductions 

e. Wildlife Damage 

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Birds and Mammals of Nebraska 

 

I. Bird Pieces and Parts  

II. Hike/Bird Banding: 

a. Half the group birds outside  

i. learn how to use binoculars 

ii. where to find which bird 

iii. how to use field guides 

iv. how to look at a bird 

b. Half the group learns and observes bird banding 

a. MAPS program 

b. Mist netting 

c. Aging/sexing 

d. Bird adaptations 

e. Attracting Winter Birds 

f. Birds and People 

 

g. Ornithology  

Page 5: Curriculum & Certificationsnr.unl.edu/naturalist/Documents/MNoutlines.pdf · Curriculum & Certification The format for our training and certification process has undergone review

a. Bird Pieces and Parts  

b. Bird Banding 

h. How to use a field guide 

a. Photo quiz 

i. How to use binoculars 

j. Birding 

a. Bird song and birding by ear 

b. Bird hike 

 

Page 6: Curriculum & Certificationsnr.unl.edu/naturalist/Documents/MNoutlines.pdf · Curriculum & Certification The format for our training and certification process has undergone review

NEBRASKA MASTER NATURALIST Explore. Contribute. Connect. 

 University of Nebraska–Lincoln 3310 Holdrege Street • 412 Hardin Hall • Lincoln, NE • 68583‐0974 Ph (402) 472‐8689 • Cell (402) 326‐8628 • Fx (402) 472‐2946 http://naturalist.unl.edu • [email protected] 

Outdoor Skills 

 

I. Firearm Instruction  

a. HE (Hunter Education) Tools – Firearm Basics 

i. Review firearm basic parts 

ii. Ammunition basic parts 

1. Shot shells  

a. Components & uses 

2. Rifle/pistol cartridges  

a. Components & uses 

b. *Basic Rules of Firearm Safety 

i. Treat every gun as if loaded 

ii. Muzzle control – never point at something you do not want to 

destroy 

iii. Keep finger off trigger until ready to shoot 

 

 

 

Page 7: Curriculum & Certificationsnr.unl.edu/naturalist/Documents/MNoutlines.pdf · Curriculum & Certification The format for our training and certification process has undergone review

NEBRASKA MASTER NATURALIST Explore. Contribute. Connect. 

 University of Nebraska–Lincoln 3310 Holdrege Street • 412 Hardin Hall • Lincoln, NE • 68583‐0974 Ph (402) 472‐8689 • Cell (402) 326‐8628 • Fx (402) 472‐2946 http://naturalist.unl.edu • [email protected] 

*Three things needed for an accident to happen 

1. Firearm 

2. Person 

3. Ammunition 

Never bring these together in an area not meant for shooting! 

c. Hands‐On Demonstrations: Rotations (divide into 4 tables) 

i. Rifles ‐ Loading & Unloading 

ii. Shotguns – Loading & Unloading  

iii. Ammunition – Cartridges, & Shot Shells 

iv. Miscellaneous Action Types 

II. Split into four groups (shotguns, archery, kayaking, angling)  

III. Split into four groups (shotguns, archery, kayaking, angling) 

IV. Lunch (15 minute lecture: Ways to participate in hunting, archery, kayaking, 

and angling in Nebraska) 

V. Split into four groups (shotguns, archery, kayaking, angling) 

VI. Split into four groups (shotguns, archery, kayaking, angling) 

 

 

Page 8: Curriculum & Certificationsnr.unl.edu/naturalist/Documents/MNoutlines.pdf · Curriculum & Certification The format for our training and certification process has undergone review

NEBRASKA MASTER NATURALIST Explore. Contribute. Connect. 

 University of Nebraska–Lincoln 3310 Holdrege Street • 412 Hardin Hall • Lincoln, NE • 68583‐0974 Ph (402) 472‐8689 • Cell (402) 326‐8628 • Fx (402) 472‐2946 http://naturalist.unl.edu • [email protected] 

VII. Conclusion  

a. Funding 

b. Management of Populations 

 

I. Shotgun Range Safety Orientation 

a. Range Commands 

i. Range is open 

ii. Firearms ready 

iii. Load 

iv. Fire 

v. Cease Fire 

vi. Range is closed 

b. Range Set‐Up 

i. Safety of set up 

ii. Safety in operation 

c. Eyes & Ears 

i. Installation and use 

ii. Why needed 

Page 9: Curriculum & Certificationsnr.unl.edu/naturalist/Documents/MNoutlines.pdf · Curriculum & Certification The format for our training and certification process has undergone review

NEBRASKA MASTER NATURALIST Explore. Contribute. Connect. 

 University of Nebraska–Lincoln 3310 Holdrege Street • 412 Hardin Hall • Lincoln, NE • 68583‐0974 Ph (402) 472‐8689 • Cell (402) 326‐8628 • Fx (402) 472‐2946 http://naturalist.unl.edu • [email protected] 

II. Shotgun Form & Fitting 

a. Stance 

b. Mounting the gun 

c. Dominant Eye 

 

I. Archery Range Safety Orientation 

a. Range Commands 

i. National Archery in the Schools  

ii. Basic safety issues 

b. Range Set‐Up 

i. Safety 

ii. Shooter comfort 

II. Bow Basics: Parts & Pieces 

III. Archery Form & Fitting 

a. Stance 

b. Steps to proper shooting 

i. 3 finger grip of string 

ii. Gripping the bow 

Page 10: Curriculum & Certificationsnr.unl.edu/naturalist/Documents/MNoutlines.pdf · Curriculum & Certification The format for our training and certification process has undergone review

NEBRASKA MASTER NATURALIST Explore. Contribute. Connect. 

 University of Nebraska–Lincoln 3310 Holdrege Street • 412 Hardin Hall • Lincoln, NE • 68583‐0974 Ph (402) 472‐8689 • Cell (402) 326‐8628 • Fx (402) 472‐2946 http://naturalist.unl.edu • [email protected] 

iii. Aiming 

iv. Release of string 

v. Follow through 

c. Dominant Eye 

 

 

I. Fishing Formula for Success 

a. Developed by In‐Fisherman Magazine 

b. Fundamental approach that can be applied to any fishing situation 

c. Mental approach to fishing 

II. Fish 

a. Biology 

b. Behavior 

III. Location 

a. Habitat requirements 

b. Movement  

c. Migration 

IV. Presentation 

a. Rods and reels 

b. Knots 

c. Casting 

Page 11: Curriculum & Certificationsnr.unl.edu/naturalist/Documents/MNoutlines.pdf · Curriculum & Certification The format for our training and certification process has undergone review

NEBRASKA MASTER NATURALIST Explore. Contribute. Connect. 

 University of Nebraska–Lincoln 3310 Holdrege Street • 412 Hardin Hall • Lincoln, NE • 68583‐0974 Ph (402) 472‐8689 • Cell (402) 326‐8628 • Fx (402) 472‐2946 http://naturalist.unl.edu • [email protected] 

Wetlands of Nebraska     

I. Nebraska’s Wetlands 

a. Overview of Nebraska’s wetlands and what makes them unique.  

b. Functions and Values: Why Are Wetlands Important?  

i.      What we used to think of wetlands & why this has changed  

ii. Functions versus values  

iii. Improving Water Quality  

iv. Providing Habitat for Wildlife, Fish, and Unusual Plants  

v. Reducing Flooding and Soil Erosion  

vi. Supplying Water   

vii. Producing Food and Fiber  

viii. Providing Recreational and Educational Opportunities  

c. Wetland Dynamics  

d. Wetland Restoration and Management  

e. Wetland Classification  

f. Wetland Inventories and Maps  

g. Statewide Wetland Resources  

h. Wetland Conservation Efforts 

Page 12: Curriculum & Certificationsnr.unl.edu/naturalist/Documents/MNoutlines.pdf · Curriculum & Certification The format for our training and certification process has undergone review

NEBRASKA MASTER NATURALIST Explore. Contribute. Connect. 

 University of Nebraska–Lincoln 3310 Holdrege Street • 412 Hardin Hall • Lincoln, NE • 68583‐0974 Ph (402) 472‐8689 • Cell (402) 326‐8628 • Fx (402) 472‐2946 http://naturalist.unl.edu • [email protected] 

i. Wetland Restoration, Enhancement, and Management Assistance  

ii. Acquisition  

iii. Water Quality Programs  

iv. Protection  

v. Outreach, Education, and Planning  

i. Wetland Conservation Approaches 

i. Protection  

ii. Restoration  

vi. Management  

vii. Inventory  

viii. Research  

ix. Education  

II.  Nebraska’s Regional Wetland Complexes  

a. Introduction  

b. PLAYA WETLANDS  

i. Rainwater Basin 

ii. Central Table Playas 

iii. Southwest Playas 

Page 13: Curriculum & Certificationsnr.unl.edu/naturalist/Documents/MNoutlines.pdf · Curriculum & Certification The format for our training and certification process has undergone review

NEBRASKA MASTER NATURALIST Explore. Contribute. Connect. 

 University of Nebraska–Lincoln 3310 Holdrege Street • 412 Hardin Hall • Lincoln, NE • 68583‐0974 Ph (402) 472‐8689 • Cell (402) 326‐8628 • Fx (402) 472‐2946 http://naturalist.unl.edu • [email protected] 

iv. Todd Valley 

c. SANDHILL WETLANDS 

i. Sandhills 

ii. Loup/Platte River Sandhills 

d. SALINE/ALKALINE WETLANDS 

i. Eastern Saline 

ii. Western Alkaline 

e. RIVERINE WETLANDS 

i. Central Platte River 

ii. Lower North Platte River 

iii. Lower Platte River 

iv. Missouri River 

v. Elkhorn River 

vi. Niobrara River 

III. Wetland Exploration Activities 

  a. Dipping for Aquatic Invertebrates 

  b. Wetland Soils—digging up the soil 

IV. Wetland DVD—Wetlands of Nebraska 

Page 14: Curriculum & Certificationsnr.unl.edu/naturalist/Documents/MNoutlines.pdf · Curriculum & Certification The format for our training and certification process has undergone review

NEBRASKA MASTER NATURALIST Explore. Contribute. Connect. 

 University of Nebraska–Lincoln 3310 Holdrege Street • 412 Hardin Hall • Lincoln, NE • 68583‐0974 Ph (402) 472‐8689 • Cell (402) 326‐8628 • Fx (402) 472‐2946 http://naturalist.unl.edu • [email protected] 

Woodlands of Nebraska 

 

I. What is a forest or woodland?    

II. ACTIVITY: Observations 

Participants hike through forest and write down observations 

III. America’s Forests 

a. Original forests 

b. Present day forests 

c. History of forest preservation 

i. National Parks vs. National Forests 

ii. Nebraska State Forest Service 

iii. Mt. Rushmore figures 

d. Show the 3‐D model/map of the United States, depict landscape 

IV. Functions of Forests 

a. Lumber and paper 

b. Non tree resources production (understory) 

c. Clean water 

d. Reduces soil erosion 

Page 15: Curriculum & Certificationsnr.unl.edu/naturalist/Documents/MNoutlines.pdf · Curriculum & Certification The format for our training and certification process has undergone review

NEBRASKA MASTER NATURALIST Explore. Contribute. Connect. 

 University of Nebraska–Lincoln 3310 Holdrege Street • 412 Hardin Hall • Lincoln, NE • 68583‐0974 Ph (402) 472‐8689 • Cell (402) 326‐8628 • Fx (402) 472‐2946 http://naturalist.unl.edu • [email protected] 

e. Aesthetics 

f. Wildlife 

g. Recreation 

h. Carbon sequestration 

V. Nebraska’s Woodland Resources 

a. Location 

b. Why are they located where they are? 

VI. Soils 

a. Soil particle sizes 

b. Porosity 

c. Soil water 

d. Soil organisms 

e. Position on the slope and landscape 

f. ACTIVITY: Cush balls, show cohesion and adhesion  

g. ACTIVITY: Participants will hike out into the forest and dig in the soil.   

 

 

 

Page 16: Curriculum & Certificationsnr.unl.edu/naturalist/Documents/MNoutlines.pdf · Curriculum & Certification The format for our training and certification process has undergone review

NEBRASKA MASTER NATURALIST Explore. Contribute. Connect. 

 University of Nebraska–Lincoln 3310 Holdrege Street • 412 Hardin Hall • Lincoln, NE • 68583‐0974 Ph (402) 472‐8689 • Cell (402) 326‐8628 • Fx (402) 472‐2946 http://naturalist.unl.edu • [email protected] 

VII. Tree Anatomy 

a. Energy Flow 

b. ACTIVITY:  

i. Tree ID  

ii. Tree cookies 

iii. Core trees 

iv. Measure tree height 

v. Explain why measurements are important 

VIII. Forest Ecology 

a. Succession 

b. Stand stages 

c. Species 

d. Disturbances ‐ man made, natural 

e. Slope 

f. Aspect 

g. Fire tolerance 

h. Shade tolerance 

i. Impacts of trees on site conditions 

Page 17: Curriculum & Certificationsnr.unl.edu/naturalist/Documents/MNoutlines.pdf · Curriculum & Certification The format for our training and certification process has undergone review

NEBRASKA MASTER NATURALIST Explore. Contribute. Connect. 

 University of Nebraska–Lincoln 3310 Holdrege Street • 412 Hardin Hall • Lincoln, NE • 68583‐0974 Ph (402) 472‐8689 • Cell (402) 326‐8628 • Fx (402) 472‐2946 http://naturalist.unl.edu • [email protected] 

j. Allelopathy 

k. Deer exclosures 

l. Oak restoration 

IX. ACTIVITY: Observations 

a. Participants make observations based on what they have learned. 

 

 

Page 18: Curriculum & Certificationsnr.unl.edu/naturalist/Documents/MNoutlines.pdf · Curriculum & Certification The format for our training and certification process has undergone review

NEBRASKA MASTER NATURALIST Explore. Contribute. Connect. 

 University of Nebraska–Lincoln 3310 Holdrege Street • 412 Hardin Hall • Lincoln, NE • 68583‐0974 Ph (402) 472‐8689 • Cell (402) 326‐8628 • Fx (402) 472‐2946 http://naturalist.unl.edu • [email protected] 

Aquatics Ecosystems and Fish of Nebraska 

I. Aquatic Ecosystem 

A. Energy source  

B. Importance of clean water 

C. Primary Producers 

a. Aquatic plants 

b. Algae 

D. Consumers 

a. Zooplankton 

1. Rotifers 

2. Copepods 

3. Cladocerans  

b. Aquatic Insects   

c. Other macroinvertebrates 

d. Fish  

II. Nebraska’s Aquatic Habitats 

A. Aquatics in Nebraska??????? 

B. Nebraska’s diversity 

Page 19: Curriculum & Certificationsnr.unl.edu/naturalist/Documents/MNoutlines.pdf · Curriculum & Certification The format for our training and certification process has undergone review

NEBRASKA MASTER NATURALIST Explore. Contribute. Connect. 

 University of Nebraska–Lincoln 3310 Holdrege Street • 412 Hardin Hall • Lincoln, NE • 68583‐0974 Ph (402) 472‐8689 • Cell (402) 326‐8628 • Fx (402) 472‐2946 http://naturalist.unl.edu • [email protected] 

C. Nebraska’s Aquatic Habitats 

1. Rivers, streams and canals 

1. Warm water 

2. Cold water 

3. Small 

4. Large 

2. Natural Lakes 

1. Oxbows 

2. Sandhill lakes 

3. Impoundments 

1. Irrigation and power‐generation reservoirs 

2. Flood control reservoirs 

3. Ponds 

4. Pits 

4. Wetlands 

1. River associated 

2. Sandhills 

3. Rain‐water basin 

Page 20: Curriculum & Certificationsnr.unl.edu/naturalist/Documents/MNoutlines.pdf · Curriculum & Certification The format for our training and certification process has undergone review

NEBRASKA MASTER NATURALIST Explore. Contribute. Connect. 

 University of Nebraska–Lincoln 3310 Holdrege Street • 412 Hardin Hall • Lincoln, NE • 68583‐0974 Ph (402) 472‐8689 • Cell (402) 326‐8628 • Fx (402) 472‐2946 http://naturalist.unl.edu • [email protected] 

D. Threats to Aquatic Habitat 

1. Water quantity 

1. “Whiskey is for drinking, water is for fighting”—Mark Twain 

2. Habitat forming flows 

2. Water quality 

1. Point versus non‐point source 

1. “A lake is a reflection of its watershed” 

2. Contaminants 

3. Aquatic Nuisance Species 

1. Zebra mussels 

2. Asian carp 

3. Others 

III. Nebraska’s Fish 

A. Fish anatomy 

a. Gills 

b. Fins 

c. Scales 

Page 21: Curriculum & Certificationsnr.unl.edu/naturalist/Documents/MNoutlines.pdf · Curriculum & Certification The format for our training and certification process has undergone review

NEBRASKA MASTER NATURALIST Explore. Contribute. Connect. 

 University of Nebraska–Lincoln 3310 Holdrege Street • 412 Hardin Hall • Lincoln, NE • 68583‐0974 Ph (402) 472‐8689 • Cell (402) 326‐8628 • Fx (402) 472‐2946 http://naturalist.unl.edu • [email protected] 

 

B. Fish senses 

a. Sight 

b. Smell 

c. Taste 

d. Lateral line 

C. Fish shape 

a. Panfish 

b. Pike‐shape 

D. Mouth and mouth position 

E. Temperature requirements 

a. Cold‐water 

b. Warm‐water 

c. Cool‐water 

F. Nebraska’s fish diversity 

a. 100+ species 

b. Maybe 40 will be caught by anglers 

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NEBRASKA MASTER NATURALIST Explore. Contribute. Connect. 

 University of Nebraska–Lincoln 3310 Holdrege Street • 412 Hardin Hall • Lincoln, NE • 68583‐0974 Ph (402) 472‐8689 • Cell (402) 326‐8628 • Fx (402) 472‐2946 http://naturalist.unl.edu • [email protected] 

Ecology and Conservation Biology 

 

I. Ecological Principles  

a. Ecology  

b. Principles and Concepts  

i. Biomes  

ii. Ecosystems 

iii. Biogeochemical cycles 

iv. Biotic and Abiotic factors 

v. Energy transfer/flow 

vi. Food chains/webs/niches 

vii. Trophic structure 

viii. Ecological pyramids 

ix. Biotic Community concept 

x. Ecological Succession 

xi. Resilience and Scale 

 

 

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NEBRASKA MASTER NATURALIST Explore. Contribute. Connect. 

 University of Nebraska–Lincoln 3310 Holdrege Street • 412 Hardin Hall • Lincoln, NE • 68583‐0974 Ph (402) 472‐8689 • Cell (402) 326‐8628 • Fx (402) 472‐2946 http://naturalist.unl.edu • [email protected] 

 

c. Eco‐regions of Nebraska  

i. Eco‐Regions 

ii. Systems found within each eco‐region 

1. Grasslands 

2. Wetlands 

3. Woodlands 

4. Lakes 

5. Ponds 

6. Rivers 

7. Reservoirs 

d. Species Level  

i. Habitat and ecological niche 

ii. Natural Selection and speciation 

e. Population dynamics  

 

 

 

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NEBRASKA MASTER NATURALIST Explore. Contribute. Connect. 

 University of Nebraska–Lincoln 3310 Holdrege Street • 412 Hardin Hall • Lincoln, NE • 68583‐0974 Ph (402) 472‐8689 • Cell (402) 326‐8628 • Fx (402) 472‐2946 http://naturalist.unl.edu • [email protected] 

 

f. Species interactions  

i. Predator Prey Relationships 

ii. Competition 

iii. Parasitism 

iv. Mutualism 

v. Commensalisms 

vi. Symbiotic 

vii. Cooperation 

viii. Antibiosis 

II. Conservation Biology  

a. Biodiversity concepts  

i. Genetic Level 

ii. Minimum dynamic area 

Activity: coin toss exercise  

iii. Species and population level 

iv. Communities and ecosystem level 

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NEBRASKA MASTER NATURALIST Explore. Contribute. Connect. 

 University of Nebraska–Lincoln 3310 Holdrege Street • 412 Hardin Hall • Lincoln, NE • 68583‐0974 Ph (402) 472‐8689 • Cell (402) 326‐8628 • Fx (402) 472‐2946 http://naturalist.unl.edu • [email protected] 

Insects of Nebraska 

 

I. Functions and Values: Why study insects? 

i. Entomology, as a scientific field of study, exists because of 

human – insect conflict 

ii. Agricultural damage 

iii. Disease 

iv. Damage to homes and businesses 

v. Annoyance (i.e. bug bites) 

b. However, insects can benefit humans too. 

i. Environmental value (i.e. pollinators, food source, indicator 

species) 

ii. Economic value (i.e. produce resources like silk, honey, dyes; 

positive effects on agriculture) 

iii. Teaching tool (i.e. demonstrate scientific method and build 

critical thinking skills via inquiry based activities) 

 

 

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NEBRASKA MASTER NATURALIST Explore. Contribute. Connect. 

 University of Nebraska–Lincoln 3310 Holdrege Street • 412 Hardin Hall • Lincoln, NE • 68583‐0974 Ph (402) 472‐8689 • Cell (402) 326‐8628 • Fx (402) 472‐2946 http://naturalist.unl.edu • [email protected] 

II. What is an arthropod?: Arthropod and Insect Classification 

a. What is an arthopod? 

i. Definition of invertebrate 

ii. Introduction to phyla and examples of each  

b. Characteristics of Arthropoda 

c. Characteristics of insects 

i. Insects 

1. Body Structure  

2. Life Cycles 

III. Nebraska’s Insects and Arthropods: Identification and recognition  

a. descriptions, signs, sounds 

b. habitats 

c. life history 

d. diets 

e. predators 

f. relationship to ecosystem 

g. status, management and conservation 

 

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NEBRASKA MASTER NATURALIST Explore. Contribute. Connect. 

 University of Nebraska–Lincoln 3310 Holdrege Street • 412 Hardin Hall • Lincoln, NE • 68583‐0974 Ph (402) 472‐8689 • Cell (402) 326‐8628 • Fx (402) 472‐2946 http://naturalist.unl.edu • [email protected] 

IV. Pests/Invasive Species 

V. Locating insects and arthropods (where are they found in Nebraska?) 

VI. Research 

a. Observation and monitoring equipment 

b. Current research and human interaction 

VII. Recreational opportunities in the outdoors 

a. What opportunities exist surrounding this topic for Nebraska? 

b. Locations? 

VIII. ACTIVITY: Insect Sampling 

a. Creating collections 

b. Selected sampling methods 

 

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NEBRASKA MASTER NATURALIST Explore. Contribute. Connect. 

 University of Nebraska–Lincoln 3310 Holdrege Street • 412 Hardin Hall • Lincoln, NE • 68583‐0974 Ph (402) 472‐8689 • Cell (402) 326‐8628 • Fx (402) 472‐2946 http://naturalist.unl.edu • [email protected] 

 

GEOLOGY OF NEBRASKA 

 

I. Introduction to Geology 

II. Nebraska as a Sample of Planet Earth 

a. Geologic Setting  

i. The geologic time scale 

ii. Structure 

iii. Tectonics 

iv. Sea‐level change 

b. Rock types (igneous, sedimentary, metamorphic) and the rock cycle 

III. Evidence for Changes Over Geologic Time in Nebraska.  

a. Presence and absence of a local geologic record 

b. Ancient oceans and their denizens: the Pennsylvanian and 

Cretaceous Periods 

ACTIVITY: Measuring and interpret a section of sedimentary rocks  

 

 

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NEBRASKA MASTER NATURALIST Explore. Contribute. Connect. 

 University of Nebraska–Lincoln 3310 Holdrege Street • 412 Hardin Hall • Lincoln, NE • 68583‐0974 Ph (402) 472‐8689 • Cell (402) 326‐8628 • Fx (402) 472‐2946 http://naturalist.unl.edu • [email protected] 

c. Three‐Hundred Million Years of Ancient Rivers  

i. Ancient rivers of the Pennsylvanian Period 

ii. Ancient rivers of the Cretaceous Period (Dakota Formation) 

iii. Platte River and its predecessors 

iv. Other rivers 

ACTIVITY: Pebble identification from sand and gravel deposits 

d. Fossil Mammals  

e. The Effects of Distant Mountains 

i. Development of Rocky Mountains 

ii. Effects on Nebraska climate  

f. The Ice Ages and Their Impacts on Nebraska 

i. Till and loess deposits 

ii. The Sand Hills 

 

 

 

 

 

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NEBRASKA MASTER NATURALIST Explore. Contribute. Connect. 

 University of Nebraska–Lincoln 3310 Holdrege Street • 412 Hardin Hall • Lincoln, NE • 68583‐0974 Ph (402) 472‐8689 • Cell (402) 326‐8628 • Fx (402) 472‐2946 http://naturalist.unl.edu • [email protected] 

IV. Relevance of Nebraska’s Geology 

a. Nebraska’s geologic resources  

i. Groundwater (Ogallala Aquifer) 

ii. Soils 

iii. Industrial minerals 

ACTIVITY: Testing limestone with white vinegar 

iv. Gemstones 

b. Geology and culture—past and present 

c. Geology and biomes/habitats 

V. Observation and monitoring equipment 

VI. Places to Go (places to see examples of Nebraska geology) 

a. Agate Fossil Beds National Monument 

b. Ashfall State Park 

c. Chimney Rock National Historic Site 

d. Hummel Park (Omaha) 

e. Lincoln area sites (Capitol Beach, water supply and saline waters, 

Antelope Creek, etc.) 

f. Louisville 

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NEBRASKA MASTER NATURALIST Explore. Contribute. Connect. 

 University of Nebraska–Lincoln 3310 Holdrege Street • 412 Hardin Hall • Lincoln, NE • 68583‐0974 Ph (402) 472‐8689 • Cell (402) 326‐8628 • Fx (402) 472‐2946 http://naturalist.unl.edu • [email protected] 

g. Niobrara National Wildlife Refuge 

h. Niobrara State Park 

i. Omaha area sites (changing course of Missouri River, engineering of 

loess bluffs, etc.) 

j. Platte River State Park 

k. Ponca State Park 

l. Rock Creek State Historical Park 

m. Scenic drives (various) 

n. Schramm Park 

o. Scotia and Happy Jack Chalk Mine 

p. Scotts Bluff National Monument 

q. Smith Falls State Park 

r. Toadstool Park 

s. Weeping Water 

t. Wildcat Hills 

 

 

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NEBRASKA MASTER NATURALIST Explore. Contribute. Connect. 

 University of Nebraska–Lincoln 3310 Holdrege Street • 412 Hardin Hall • Lincoln, NE • 68583‐0974 Ph (402) 472‐8689 • Cell (402) 326‐8628 • Fx (402) 472‐2946 http://naturalist.unl.edu • [email protected] 

Grasslands and Prairies of Nebraska 

 

I. The pre‐settlement Nebraska landscape 

a. percentage of prairie, woodland, wetland 

b. dominant disturbances 

c. settlement period and impacts 

II. Tallgrass Prairie 

a. Range 

b. Dominant and rare plant species 

c. Natural disturbances and frequency 

d. Percent remaining 

e. Primary Stressors 

III. Central Mixedgrass Prairie 

IV. Sand Prairies 

V. Western Mixedgrass Prairie 

VI. Wet Meadows 

VII. Questions and Discussion 

 

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NEBRASKA MASTER NATURALIST Explore. Contribute. Connect. 

 University of Nebraska–Lincoln 3310 Holdrege Street • 412 Hardin Hall • Lincoln, NE • 68583‐0974 Ph (402) 472‐8689 • Cell (402) 326‐8628 • Fx (402) 472‐2946 http://naturalist.unl.edu • [email protected] 

VIII. Prairie Management  

a. Disturbances (climate, fire, grazing) 

b. Diversity and Heterogeneity 

c. Principles of Management 

i. manage competition between plants 

ii. avoid repetition 

iii. Importance of defoliation in managing competition 

d. Examples of management strategies and regimes 

e. Invasive species: what is an invasive species and general approaches 

to their control 

f. Questions and Discussion 

IX. Introduction to Plant Identification  

a. The plant kingdom 

b. Nebraska’s floral diversity 

c. Flower parts and structure 

d. Flower types 

e. Leaf types and shapes 

f. Monocots and dicots 

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NEBRASKA MASTER NATURALIST Explore. Contribute. Connect. 

 University of Nebraska–Lincoln 3310 Holdrege Street • 412 Hardin Hall • Lincoln, NE • 68583‐0974 Ph (402) 472‐8689 • Cell (402) 326‐8628 • Fx (402) 472‐2946 http://naturalist.unl.edu • [email protected] 

g. Learning plant family patterns 

i. mustards 

ii. gooseberries 

iii. asters 

iv. lilies 

v. grasses 

vi. sedges 

vii. rushes 

h. Keys and references 

i. Questions and Discussion 

X. Prairie Walk  

Chris and Gerry will lead a hike through the prairie where we will identify 

plants and further discuss prairie management. 

 

 

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NEBRASKA MASTER NATURALIST Explore. Contribute. Connect. 

 University of Nebraska–Lincoln 3310 Holdrege Street • 412 Hardin Hall • Lincoln, NE • 68583‐0974 Ph (402) 472‐8689 • Cell (402) 326‐8628 • Fx (402) 472‐2946 http://naturalist.unl.edu • [email protected] 

Reptiles and Amphibians of Nebraska 

               

I. What is Herpetology? 

II. What are Herps? 

a. Amphibians 

i. Morphological Evolution 

ii. Characteristics  

1. Integument  

2. Movement 

3. Sense organs 

4. Foraging, Feeding & Digestion 

5. Water balance; freeze tolerance 

iii. Reproductive behavior and strategies 

iv. Nebraska’s Amphibians 

1. Classification 

2. Diversity 

v. Development and larval biology  

 

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NEBRASKA MASTER NATURALIST Explore. Contribute. Connect. 

 University of Nebraska–Lincoln 3310 Holdrege Street • 412 Hardin Hall • Lincoln, NE • 68583‐0974 Ph (402) 472‐8689 • Cell (402) 326‐8628 • Fx (402) 472‐2946 http://naturalist.unl.edu • [email protected] 

b. Reptiles 

i. Morphological Evolution 

ii. Characteristics  

1. Integument 

2. Movement 

3. Sense organs 

4. Digestion, venom, feeding behavior 

5. Thermoregulation; energies 

6. Development (viviparity, TSD) 

iii. Reproductive behavior and strategies 

iv. Nebraska’s Reptiles 

1. Classification 

2. Diversity 

c. Herp Defenses and Escape Behavior  

d. Population and Community Ecology  

III. Function and Values: Why are herps important? 

a. Amphibians as Indicator Species 

b. Amphibian Decline 

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NEBRASKA MASTER NATURALIST Explore. Contribute. Connect. 

 University of Nebraska–Lincoln 3310 Holdrege Street • 412 Hardin Hall • Lincoln, NE • 68583‐0974 Ph (402) 472‐8689 • Cell (402) 326‐8628 • Fx (402) 472‐2946 http://naturalist.unl.edu • [email protected] 

 

IV. Conservation Efforts   

a. Herpetofauna Conservation Biology 

b. Herpetofauna as Invasive Species and their Management 

V. What you can do to help 

VI. ACTIVITY: Lab and Field Study  

a. External diagnostic features, Measurements  

b. Field Techniques & Data  

c. Nebraska Herpetofauna Identification 

i. Amphibians (14) 

ii. Frog calls 

iii. Turtles (9) 

iv. Lizards (10) 

v. Snakes (29) 

vi. Snake skins 

       

     

 

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NEBRASKA MASTER NATURALIST Explore. Contribute. Connect. 

 University of Nebraska–Lincoln 3310 Holdrege Street • 412 Hardin Hall • Lincoln, NE • 68583‐0974 Ph (402) 472‐8689 • Cell (402) 326‐8628 • Fx (402) 472‐2946 http://naturalist.unl.edu • [email protected] 

Human Dimensions of the Natural Resources 

 

A. Ecosystem management  

a. Define Ecosystem Management 

b. Threats to Ecosystems 

i. Human impacts 

1. Invasive species 

2. Pollution 

3. Climate change 

4. Other (Discussion) 

B. Ecosystem Services, Ecotourism, and Economics: Putting it all together, 

Why does this matter?   

a. Ecotourism  

b. Economics  

c. Connection to Nature  

i. Socio‐cultural Value 

1. Community 

2. Land Ethic 

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NEBRASKA MASTER NATURALIST Explore. Contribute. Connect. 

 University of Nebraska–Lincoln 3310 Holdrege Street • 412 Hardin Hall • Lincoln, NE • 68583‐0974 Ph (402) 472‐8689 • Cell (402) 326‐8628 • Fx (402) 472‐2946 http://naturalist.unl.edu • [email protected] 

3. Different levels of land ethic 

4. Indigenous peoples, etc. 

ii. Human health 

1. Psychological 

2. Physical 

3. Louv, Childhood obesity, school performance, 

depression 

4. Positive and negative impacts 

iii. Environmental 

1. Stewardship and land ethic 

 

 

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NEBRASKA MASTER NATURALIST Explore. Contribute. Connect. 

 University of Nebraska–Lincoln 3310 Holdrege Street • 412 Hardin Hall • Lincoln, NE • 68583‐0974 Ph (402) 472‐8689 • Cell (402) 326‐8628 • Fx (402) 472‐2946 http://naturalist.unl.edu • [email protected] 

Water Resources of Nebraska 

 

I. Properties of Water 

II. Water Cycle  

III. Watersheds        

IV. Groundwater (Ogallala Aquifer)        

V. ACTIVITY: Groundwater and Surface Water Demos    

VI. People and Water         

a. History of Water in Nebraska 

i. Ground Water and Above Surface Water Pre‐Settlement 

ii. Flow rates 

b. Current Uses of Water 

i. Ground Water and Above Surface Water Currently 

ii. Center pivot irrigation  

iii. Dams 

I. ACTIVITY: Water Quality Testing       

 

 

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NEBRASKA MASTER NATURALIST Explore. Contribute. Connect. 

 University of Nebraska–Lincoln 3310 Holdrege Street • 412 Hardin Hall • Lincoln, NE • 68583‐0974 Ph (402) 472‐8689 • Cell (402) 326‐8628 • Fx (402) 472‐2946 http://naturalist.unl.edu • [email protected] 

II. Current Issues          

a. Water Pollution 

b. Water Rights Issues  

i. Between states 

ii. Within Nebraska  

c. Other (Beneficial use priorities) 

i. Municipal 

ii. Agriculture Industrial 

iii. Recreation 

d. Toxic algae 

III. What Can You Do?      

a. Water at Home and in Businesses 

b. Water Management on Private Land 

 

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NEBRASKA MASTER NATURALIST Explore. Contribute. Connect. 

 University of Nebraska–Lincoln 3310 Holdrege Street • 412 Hardin Hall • Lincoln, NE • 68583‐0974 Ph (402) 472‐8689 • Cell (402) 326‐8628 • Fx (402) 472‐2946 http://naturalist.unl.edu • [email protected] 

Interpretation and Outreach 

 

American Conservation History  

I. The Naturalists  

a. Audubon 

b. Muir  

c. Pinchot  

d. Steven Mather  

e. Leopold  

f. Modern Environmental Movement  

g. Calendar of events 

Interpretation and Outreach 

I. Information, Environmental Education and Interpretation: What’s the 

difference?  

a. Information 

b. Interpretation 

i. What is interpretation? 

ii. What is the purpose? 

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NEBRASKA MASTER NATURALIST Explore. Contribute. Connect. 

 University of Nebraska–Lincoln 3310 Holdrege Street • 412 Hardin Hall • Lincoln, NE • 68583‐0974 Ph (402) 472‐8689 • Cell (402) 326‐8628 • Fx (402) 472‐2946 http://naturalist.unl.edu • [email protected] 

1. To light a spark 

2. Assist visitors to develop awareness, understanding, and 

appreciation of outdoors  

3. To accomplish management goals  

4. Promote public understanding of agency goals & 

objectives 

iii. Why study interpretation in NMN? 

c. Environmental Education: 

i. Knowledge into action 

ii. The components of environmental education are: 

1. Awareness of environmental issues 

2. Understanding of environmental challenges 

3. Attitudes of concern for the environment and 

motivation to improve environmental quality 

4. Skills to identify and resolve environmental challenges 

5. Participation in activities to lead to the resolution of 

environmental issues 

d. Differences Between Interpretation and Environmental Education 

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NEBRASKA MASTER NATURALIST Explore. Contribute. Connect. 

 University of Nebraska–Lincoln 3310 Holdrege Street • 412 Hardin Hall • Lincoln, NE • 68583‐0974 Ph (402) 472‐8689 • Cell (402) 326‐8628 • Fx (402) 472‐2946 http://naturalist.unl.edu • [email protected] 

II. Benefits of Interpretation and Interpretation as a Management Tool  

a. Increase recreation benefits 

b. Resource protection 

c. Visitor Protection—safety 

d. Law Enforcement 

e. Enhance visitor experiences 

f. Make visitors aware of their place in the environment 

g. Broaden visitor horizons ‐ big picture 

h. Inform the public 

i. Reduce park destruction 

j. Assist in promotion of parks and tourism to economy 

k. Motivate public to protect environment at historic sites 

III. Interpretive Principles  

a. Enos Mills  

b. Freeman Tilden  

c. Dr. Ted Cable and Larry Beck  

d. Activity: Uninteresting Snake Education vs. Interpretation of a Snake 

 

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NEBRASKA MASTER NATURALIST Explore. Contribute. Connect. 

 University of Nebraska–Lincoln 3310 Holdrege Street • 412 Hardin Hall • Lincoln, NE • 68583‐0974 Ph (402) 472‐8689 • Cell (402) 326‐8628 • Fx (402) 472‐2946 http://naturalist.unl.edu • [email protected] 

IV. Developmental stages 

a. Physical and mental abilities of different ages 

b. Activity: Puzzle pieces for the different stages 

V. Learning Styles  

a. Detailing learning styles 

b. Activity: Bingo Game—Gardner’s Multiple Intelligences  

VI. Snack and potty break 

VII. Interpretive Planning and Design  

a. Identify need of stakeholders 

b. Identify needs of audience 

c. Assess resources 

i. People 

ii. Community 

iii. Facilities 

iv. Products and resources 

d. Interpretive Planning  

 

 

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NEBRASKA MASTER NATURALIST Explore. Contribute. Connect. 

 University of Nebraska–Lincoln 3310 Holdrege Street • 412 Hardin Hall • Lincoln, NE • 68583‐0974 Ph (402) 472‐8689 • Cell (402) 326‐8628 • Fx (402) 472‐2946 http://naturalist.unl.edu • [email protected] 

e. Develop themes 

i. Overall 

ii. Major 

iii. Minor 

f. Interpretive Design 

i. Hikes, themed  

ii. Programs  

iii. Brochures  

iv. Signs  

VIII. Hike  

a. Trail techniques 

b. Physical needs 

c. Public speaking skills and techniques 

IX. Challenges for Interpretation  

X. Participants Develop a Program  

XI. Conclusion –So why did we start the Master Naturalist training with 

interpretation? 

XII. Resource Page