Walk Abouts – introductions to public sites in greater New Orleans to be explored by Master Naturalists of the New Orleans chapter.
These two hour educational sessions may include history of the site and other relevant details. During the walk about, the biodiversity of the site can be observed. Perhaps there will be a representative of the department that oversees the site who will provide pertinent details. Of importance is that these short and informative educational sessions will count as educational hours towards one’s annual quota.
There are 3 walkabouts scheduled in November and December.
On Sunday November 17th at 9 am, is a visit to a wooded lot on the University of New Orleans campus. Modest in size, it is being converted into a native plants site. The surrounding open spaces are being planted with native trees and shrubs. Already a bird friendly site, this lot which has survived decades of US Navy and UNO development will be an oasis – a refuge for students and wildlife. The host is Michele Mire. UNO Woodlot information.
On Sunday, December 15th at 10 am, is scheduled a visit to the New Basin Canal Park. Located between the Pontchartrain Boulevard and the West End Boulevard, this park was once the site of the canal that ran from the lake to the business district. After Katrina, the open spaces were used to sort out and burn huge piles of debris. Now the site is a brand new park with dozens of brand new trees. The host is Nicole Greene.
And then six days later on Saturday, December 21st at 9 am is a visit to the West End Park located across from the Municipal Yacht Harbor. The park was built almost a century ago to include a lagoon, rows of oaks and an arbor. And on its west side, across a street is what was once the parking lot for a row of seafood restaurants located on pilings over the lake. Now the eateries are gone so what is to become of the parking lot? The host is Rebecca Stilling.
These Walk Abouts are for members, spouses, friends and especially for potential recruits for the master naturalist program. Children are welcome. There is no fee for the event.
To sign up for a Walk About, go to the Point Events page. Once you sign up the host will contact you with info about the specific meeting site.
Byron Almquist. [email protected] 504 606-2207