Join Sonja Melander to learn how to host engaging, enjoyable nature walks for groups with PVAS!

PVAS Host: Sonja Melander

Free and open to the public. This program is for adults. Registration is required and limited to 10 participants.

PVMN Continuing Education Credit Eligible

Do you enjoy walking and exploring nature with others? Are you interested in hosting group nature walks with PVAS? If so, this training is for you!

This 3-hour training at Cool Spring Preserve will include the basics of what you need to know as a walk host! Topics will include expectations for program planning (including how you can expect to be supported by PVAS staff!), how to begin and end walks in a meaningful and engaging way, an overview of risk management expectations, group dynamics, and techniques/simple activities you can lead along the trail to help people notice, think about and connect to the natural world around them!

This training will begin with a classroom session with written materials provided, but note-taking is encouraged! After the classroom session, we will spend time outside on the trail, so please be prepared with what you need to be comfortable outdoors.

Mentored support will also be available for new walk hosts after the training.

Pace: This program will begin inside and will be seated, classroom-style for at least the first hour. The remainder of the training will be outside, walking at a leisurely pace (meandering, many breaks to stop and observe).

Terrain: When outside, we will be walking on hard ground/hiking trails over gentle slopes/rolling hills.

Distance: Less than 1 mile.

Restrooms: The indoor, flushing restrooms at the Case Nature Center will be available.

Register Here!

About our Host: Sonja is the Associate Director of Education for the Potomac Valley Audubon Society. She has been leading guided group nature walks for over a decade. She loves exploring different habitats under all sorts of weather conditions, by both daylight and moonlight and – when needed – flashlight!