I’m excited to share some news about a new TCWP initiative, and I’m hoping you can help us spread the word!

Thanks to a recently awarded grant from Oak Ridge National Laboratory, Tennessee Citizens for Wilderness Planning is launching our Conservation Leadership Academy: Mentoring the Next Generation of Conservation Leaders.

For nearly 60 years, TCWP has been fortunate to have extraordinary naturalists, botanists, ecologists, and conservationists leading our nature outings, stewardship workdays, and environmental education programs. These individuals have accumulated decades of knowledge about East Tennessee’s natural world, and we want to make sure that knowledge is passed along to future generations.

That’s where our new Conservation Leadership Academy comes in!

We’re looking for individuals who love nature, enjoy learning, and might be interested in becoming future leaders of conservation activities. Participants will have the opportunity to work alongside our experienced leaders, gaining hands-on experience to lead nature outings that focus on native plants and aquatic ecology, stewardship projects including invasive species management and habitat restoration, and environmental education activities.

For example, one of our mentors will be renowned naturalist Larry Pounds, who has spent decades sharing his remarkable knowledge of East Tennessee’s plants and natural communities. Imagine having the opportunity to accompany Larry on his outings, learn how he interprets the natural world, and eventually help lead outings yourself!

We’re hosting a virtual informational session on Thursday, December 3, at 6:00 p.m. Eastern. Register in advance for this meeting:

After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting. Our experienced leaders will be there to introduce themselves, describe the activities they lead, and explain what participants can expect from the mentoring experience.

We’re hoping to recruit an initial group of 5 – 6 individuals who would like to develop their knowledge and leadership skills while helping preserve and protect the natural places we all care about.

We would be grateful for your help in connecting us with potential conservation leaders. Thank you for helping us cultivate the next generation of people who will care for East Tennessee’s wild places and waters.

Warmly,

Nancy Manning
Executive Director
Tennessee Citizens for Wilderness Planning
www.tcwp.org