Florida Master Naturalist Program

The course format is in-person.

Homework:
• Please watch for an email from your instructors with important instructions and a brief assignment prior to Day 1 of class.
• An interpretive presentation in the field and a group project reflecting the freshwater ecosystems you have learned about are a required part of this class. We will discuss these requirements on Day 1 and will provide support necessary for this to be a comfortable, successful experience. Assignments are not meant to be “graded” homework, but rather an opportunity to synthesize your knowledge and experience gained.
• Please plan for enough time to complete these requirements outside of class.

Instructor Cell Phone Numbers
Dr. Katherine Clements: 941-724-1684
Michael D’Imperio: 941-724-2146

Attendance Policy

• You cannot miss more than 8 hours (20% of the 40 contact hours) This is a FMNP policy and cannot be modified by the Instructor.
• To receive certification, the 8 hours or less missed must be made up by completing an assignment of equal time and content. Approval of the Instructor is required.
• If total hours missed exceeds 8 hours, certification is not possible regardless of material made up.
• All absences should be discussed with the instructor in advance. In case of emergencies, please notify Instructor as soon as possible.

Make-up time frame: If you miss a class or a field trip, you must make-up the same material. The time for makeup needs to be completed within a week when possible. This will keep you from getting behind, as much of the material builds upon itself.

Classroom Presentations:We will be meeting at a variety of locations throughout Sarasota County, please pay close attention to the schedule. Instructors will provide detailed directions via email prior to each class. Please contact your instructor if you have any questions. The classroom might be warm or cool dependent on the hosting venue—please, dress accordingly.

Field Trip Locations & Times may change due to unforeseen circumstances. It is the student’s responsibility to verify the field trip information. Transportation and lunches are not included.

Course Time Schedule does not include travel time required to drive to meeting locations.

Student Carpooling is suggested and up to students to arrange.

Flexible Schedule:

• The schedule times listed are as close as possible, but we need you to be flexible. Please be flexible. 
• We probably will not get out early; however, we may run late. We will try to stick to the listed times, but please arrange your schedule so that the class can be flexible.

Food & Drinks: Food and drinks are allowed in the classroom. Lunch is on your own, but we are often in the field, so it is best to bring your food and beverages with you. Please bring your own beverages and snacks. Lunch is on your own and often out in the field, so best to plan to pack your lunch each day.

Cell Phones: These are fine to use outside of class. Please don’t allow it to ring during classroom sessions or on field trips and keep your usage to a minimum during class time. We know everyone has busy lives, but please try to give the instructors your full attention.

Field Trips:

• Water is Required to be Carried with You – No Exceptions.
• Bring: water, snacks, field ID books, notepad and pen, binoculars, insect repellent, towels and an optional change of clothes (spare shoes/socks/pants/shirt).
• Don’t wear perfume/cologne or use perfumed soap/body lotion before going out in the field. This may attract more unwanted buzzing invertebrates known as mosquitoes, midges (no see ‘ems) and flies. Also, recommended to not wear in class, as many people are sensitive.
• There are insects (including mosquitoes), spiders, and snakes outdoors. Hopefully, we will see many of these beautiful creatures. Always watch where you are putting your hands and feet.
• Required: Always Wear Close-toed Shoes. The field trails are not always level or easy to travel; some plants have thorns; there may be poison ivy; fire ants, etc. Open-toed shoes are not acceptable to be worn in the field.
• Be aware that typically you will be experiencing a variety of environments. For your comfort, always bring a spare change of clothes. Freshwater ecosystems are sometimes wet!
• Wear: layered clothes, long sleeves and pants, hiking boots or appropriate foot wear for the day’s field trip, hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, insect repellent (especially on feet/legs).
• It might be very hot or cold, or wet on our field trips—please, dress accordingly.

Rain Dates (if needed):
Wednesday, October 14 (PRNR multipurpose room)
Friday, October 16 (Sarasota County Extension office)
Monday, October 19 (Sarasota County Extension office)

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