SFA Gardens at Stephen F. Austin State University will host an orientation and training for volunteers from 9 a.m. to noon Wednesday, Jan. 28, in the Ina Brundrett Conservation Education Building at the Pineywoods Native Plant Center, 2900 Raguet St. in Nacogdoches.
The training will prepare volunteers to present environmental education programs to area school children throughout the year. The programs introduce students to the natural world through hands-on activities.
“Area residents are invited to join some great people and gorgeous plants in the garden for the spring 2015 Garden Guide training class,” said Elyce Rodewald, SFA Gardens education coordinator.
During the school programs at the SFA Gardens, students might explore the inside of a flower or learn about honeybee communication. They also may take a closer look at soil, investigate forest habitats or measure trees. Volunteers are not required to have advanced horticulture knowledge, but do need a love and appreciation for energetic, curious kids.
To register for the class or for more information, contact Rodewald at (936) 468-1832 or email erodewald@sfasu.edu.
Marianne Young, SFA Gardens volunteer, demonstrates how to accurately test water quality to Nacogdoches ISD third graders during last year’s learning excursion at the SFA Pineywoods Native Plant Center.