I’ve led two Adventure Ecology programs since last I wrote here! I was very nervous for the first one, a stargazing event, but the NH Astronomical Society showed up with their personal telescopes to help out. Everyone who attended had an enjoyable time looking at some planets, star clusters, and the Andromeda galaxy. I’d planned as best I could, and including the NHAS helped make everything work out better than if I had gone it alone.
The second was a birdwatching event. Though only a couple woodpeckers and a crow showed, attendees enjoyed the walk through Belknap Woods. I learned about logistics that affect birdwatching, like how the footsteps in the crunchy snow were too loud and scared off the birds, and how important it is to go with the flow and consider unexpected circumstances from different perspectives.
Leading Volunteer Trail Work events isn’t much different than participating in one, but all the mental work is on the leader, like making sure everything needed is accounted for, volunteers have been informed of the workday location, and transportation. I do enjoy simply participating in these, but leading is a good challenge because everyone looks to you for direction, and it’s important to make positive choices.
I’ve never been much of a public speaker, but leading these events with amiable crowds has really helped me feel comfortable giving presentations, especially when I’ve worked hard on reviewing the material and made sure to be prepared.
I’m excited for the eventuality of summer with a whole slew of new things to work on and try, as well as meeting new folk around the Lakes Region community!
Meaghan is the Communications lead at the Squam Lakes Association, they handle posting our many events to engage our community members. Learn more about Meaghan here!