We have already had our first three Midlands Master Naturalist classes! This 12-week course is designed to teach identification skills, ecological concepts, and natural history of the plants, animals, and ecosystems encountered in the various locations in the midlands.

Week 1: Camp Discovery, Blythewood

This first class was held at Camp Discovery in Blythewood, SC, and led by Austin Jenkins. The class honed their observation skills and explored Camp Discovery trails. They will use these skills as they head out into the field to a new location each week!

Week 2: Piedmont Geology & Plant Communities – Forty Acre Rock, Kershaw

Again led by Austin, the class got a chance to explore one of the state’s most unique heritage preserves, featuring a large granite outcropping that provides habitat to the endangered Pool Sprite and countless wildflowers such as Elf Orpine, Piedmont Sandwort, and Puck’s Orpine!

Week 3-Things With Wings: Intro to Birds – Macedonia Lutheran Church in Prosperity

This week’s adventure was led by SCWF’s Jay Keck, and the class explored a beautiful property while learning how to identify different species of birds by sight and by sound.