The Wenatchee River Institute invites you to embark on a wonder-filled adventure by becoming a Wenatchee Naturalist. This third offering of the Wenatchee-based program begins in late January and is now registering inquisitive valley residents for spring (Jan. 30–April 24).

The class meets Wednesday evenings and includes three Saturday field trips (Feb. 9, March 23, and April 13). Field trips explore habitats along the White, Entiat and Wenatchee river corridors, guided by expert guest field biologists. Every class includes hands-on activities and practice using a field journal.

Registration closes Tuesday, with the first Wednesday evening class on Jan. 30. Class size is limited to 24 adults and is designed for non-scientists. Tuition is $335 and includes supplies, a field journal and loaned equipment.

Over the 12-week course, you’ll make new friends, discover lovely local places you’ll want to visit again, and gain new eyes for the natural wonders of North Central Washington. This class is designed to inspire a deeper connection to the wonders of our valley and to bring new sources of joy to your everyday life.

Throughout the course, students are introduced to an array of local conservation organizations and citizen science projects. The aim is to make it fun and easy to select 20-plus hours of volunteer work to complete after finishing the coursework. Teachers can sign up for 50 clock hours (free) and have the option to do volunteering within their classroom.

The Wenatchee Naturalist mission is to cultivate awareness, understanding and stewardship of the Wenatchee River region by developing an active corps of well-informed community volunteers.

Comments made by spring 2012 class participants included:

“I found the course to be just what I was looking for. Great intro, with loads of references for future use.”

“I didn’t realize how important the field journal is; it really hones observation skills … ”

“I loved the combination of geology, birds, botany (on the field trips) … Great views, very interesting, beautiful places … ”

“I have so much to learn; this class has opened up so much for me … Education is the key, and we need to educate the young ones to protect this immense, unbelievable diverse precious ecosystem. You’ve given us a leg up in this endeavor.”

Learn more about the program and download an application on the Wenatchee River Institute website at barnbeachreserve.org/programs. Feel free to contact course instructor Susan Ballinger at 669-7820 or skylinebal@gmail.com.

Susan Ballinger is the creator and lead instructor for the Wenatchee Naturalist program offered by the Wenatchee River Institute.