The IMN courses bring together natural resource specialists with adult learners to foster a deeper understanding of Indiana’s plants, water, soils and wildlife, according to the IMN website.
The course is led by Cathy Meyer and Jill Vance and is a program through the Indiana Department of Natural Resources.
“The course has been very popular with adult learners in the Bloomington area,” Meyer said. “Learning never ends.”
The mission of the IMN program is “to bring together natural resource specialists with adult learners to foster an understanding of Indiana’s plants, water, soils and wildlife, and promote volunteer service in local communities,” according to the Department of Natural Resources website.
“Those who sign up are interested in nature and the outdoors,” Meyer said. “Some hunt, fish, hike or camp and want to know more about what they see. They also meet other people with similar interests, and we plan outings for people to go out and explore together after they have taken the classes.”
The course consists of 10 evening classes focusing on different aspects of the environment, including trees, birds, water, soil, geology, insects and more. Expert speakers will present each topic and participants will have a large binder to collect materials.
Participants are asked to pass a final test, attend 80 percent of the classes and complete 25 hours of volunteer service with a local resource management agency to complete their certification, Meyer said.
“They get a better appreciation for the environment we live in and help make it a better place by volunteering,” Meyer said.
The course is currently full, but the IU Teaching and Research Preserve will be offering a course this fall as well, Meyer said.
“IU students may not be familiar with Indiana’s natural resources, since they come from all over the world,” Meyer said. “The course can help them relate to the local environment and also provide a context for what they may be learning about in their formal coursework. It builds connections to the community too.”
