2024 Indiana Master Naturalist Gathering: Amphibians

Indiana Master Naturalists have an annual Gathering. It is held in a different part of the state each year to represent the membership but to also highlight the geology, biology, and history of the distinct settings. In 2024 the Gathering was held in Northeast Indiana. The first full day has held at L.C. Nature Park. Classes and presentations were held in the beautifully refurbished barn converted into the Education Center. Hikes highlighted various terrain as well as the elk and bison herds.   

The last presentation of the day was by Dr. Bruce Kingsbury the director of the Environmental Resource Center at Purdue University Fort Wayne. His talk was on amphibians. The talk focused on specie identification, care for amphibians, and their place in the environment. This included highlighting the importance of wetlands.  

The day at L.C. Nature Park was robust. There were Indiana Master Naturalists leaders. There were presentations on animals, a historical interpretation on canal life, and inspiring hikes. The night before highlighted downtown Fort Wayne and then Fox Island County Park. After a full day at L.C. Nature Park the group will regather at Eagle Marsh. The last morning would be held at Chief Richardville House. All of this was connected by the Little River Valley, it’s history and impact.  

Dr. Kingsbury’s talk was well received. He is a consistent supported of the Allen County Indiana Master Naturalist training program. He is kind of a Rennaissance man. He is a biologist, a manager, and an artist. He uses all these gifts/skills to make our training come alive.

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