At Chautauqua National Wildlife Refuge north of Havana, Master Naturalist volunteer Carla Montez uses her communications background to shine a spotlight on the refuge’s wildlife and habitat. After training, she interviewed experts, identified habitat loss as a key theme, and produced engaging articles such as “In Search of the Illinois Chorus Frog” and a piece on trumpeter swans, on behalf of the refuge’s partnership with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Her writing helps translate technical conservation work into stories that connect with the public.
Through this volunteer-led outreach, the Master Naturalist program contributes not only to land stewardship efforts but also to raising awareness of Chautauqua’s ecological significance and building community engagement.
Learn more about the Master Naturalists in Mason County.
