Are you interested in science but don’t know where to start? Join us for an interactive workshop where you will learn how to both think like a scientist and how to go about participating in rewarding, ever-critical research!

Are you fascinated by fields such as biology, chemistry, and physics, but feel limited in how you can contribute to them? Join us for this unique online workshop in which you will learn about the scientific method in the context of historical citizen science, followed by how to find and contribute to important scientific projects. You will also have the opportunity to participate in engaging exercises that enable you to build exciting skillsets and improve your understanding of science communication. Participants will receive a recording of the lecture, a copy of the presentation, and additional take-home exercises.

Choose one of two dates: Tuesday, October 21, 2025 OR Friday, October 24, 2025

The winds of Fall are sweeping in from the North, bringing cold weather and pushing our birds to the South.  Now is the time to see waterfowl in numbers! 🦢 Join us for this Ontario Master Naturalist Program (OMNP) workshop with Bob Bowles and take a close look at a range of local bird species (e.g. Loons, grebes, swans, wading birds, and gulls) along the shores of Lake Simcoe.  Explore the Orillia and Barrie waterfronts counting species and referencing your workshop booklet with a comprehensive list of migrant birds in our area.

April Showers bring May flowers and wildflowers are at their peak during this small window of time. What better time to explore wildflowers than on the eve of the Flower Moon?!

Join Ontario Master Naturalist Program coordinator Bob Bowles for an afternoon hike on the Oro Moraine exploring the floral treasures present as a result of glacial deposits. During the hike, Bob will point out some of these wildflowers and you will come away from this workshop with an increased understanding of the ecological wonders of our local trails.

The Spring 2025 certificate program includes eight learning modules taught in a hybrid model, including interactive PowerPoints, videos created for the program, virtual learning resources, a virtual trailhead meeting space, and weekly Zoom webinars with the program's content experts. The eight learning modules are as follows: Geology & Anthropology, Mammals, Plants, Birds, Reptiles & Amphibians, Wetlands, Invasive Species, and Insects. While this program does include live weekly webinars, it can also be completed asynchronously. The weekly webinars with the program's content experts are recorded and posted to the online course site, allowing for students to go back and review the recordings on their own time.

Cancellation policy: In the case of cancellation, we will offer a refund up to three weeks prior to the start of the program. A $50 administrative fee will be incurred for administration.

Are you interested in learning about how trees survive the winter and how to identify various types of trees during the winter months?

Details:
This winter season, join Ontario Master Naturalist Program facilitator Bob Bowles to learn about the many different species of trees that call Ontario home. Participants will learn how to identify different trees by their winter bud shape, size, colour, arrangement, leaf scars, and bark details in an informative and interactive presentation. During this workshop participants will receive a Winter Dendrology booklet written by Bob himself!

Embrace the freshly fallen snow and get outside in nature to learn something new this winter! Join Ontario Master Naturalist Program facilitator Bob Bowles at the Robert L. Bowles Nature Centre to learn key techniques for tracking mammals and identifying species, such as observing the different gaits mammals use during winter, and measuring stride, straddle, and other components.

Details:
Dress warmly in layers for an interactive hike on the trails, and don't forget to wear sturdy snow boots that work well with the snowshoe harnesses. Pack a lunch and spend time by the fire with the group discussing the day's discoveries.

Participants will receive a field brochure and hot drinks will be provided. Snowshoes will also be available to rent for $10 directly at the Robert L. Bowles Natures Centre for those who do not have their own.