If you follow my blogs you know that one of the best parts of my job is getting to work with volunteers!
It never ceases to amaze me how we are so fortunate to have such incredible, dedicated people that freely give of themselves and their time to Virginia State Parks!
Donna getting ready for a hike
My focus for this post is an extraordinary woman that volunteers at Friends of Lake Anna State Parkand manage a 38 box trail.
Donna with the Bluebird system
Bluebird in one of Donna's boxes
Besides her dedicated time to Virginia Master Naturalist with the Central Rappahannock Chapter (Fredericksburg.) And is foremost an avid birder, but with a special interest in amphibians and reptiles, gardening with native plants, and wildlife conservation.
Twayblade Orchid in bloom
Donna is currently the Spotsylvania coordinator for the Master Naturalist program gave her the confidence and qualifications to be called an Environmental Educator.
Donna in the class room
I had the great fortune to meet her many years ago when she was presenting a program to a group at theLake Anna State Park visitor center. The program was on amphibians and reptiles, the children were so enthralled it was great to see their enthusiasm.
Donna with First Day hikers
One of Donnas’ favorite programs she presents is a walk with a Park Naturalist as she interprets plants and animals she finds along the trail. She also enjoys helping out with the Junior Ranger program at the park and assisting with the educational programs as needed. She is our “go to” person when we want to identify an usual plants that we find at the park. She told me in a recent conversation that she gets so much more from volunteering than she gives, "it's been an incredible learning experience for me."
"Look deep into nature, and then you will understand everything better."Albert Einstein
For contact information on volunteering programs, the Spotsylvania County about 45 minutes from Fredericksburg.
