Source: Valerie Wright, 785-587-0381, konzaed@k-state.edu
Web site: http://www.k-state.edu/konza/keep

Monday, Jan. 26, 2009

DOCENT TRAINING AT K-STATE'S KONZA PRAIRIE TO START FEB. 21

MANHATTAN -- If you are interested in the tallgrass prairie, would like to learn more about grasslands and think you might enjoy introducing others to the joys of the prairie, Kansas State University's Konza Prairie Biological Station has an opportunity for you.

New Konza Prairie docent orientation will begin Saturday, Feb. 21. The first orientation session, one of 13 sessions in the docent training, runs from 9 a.m. to noon.

"Join us at our education center in the old Dewey Ranch House and see if you'd like to continue. Being a docent is a lifelong learning process," said Valerie Wright, director of the Konza Environmental Education Program.

At the first session, participants can preview program materials, check out the upcoming training schedule, meet experienced docents and Konza Prairie staff, and view a presentation about the Konza Prairie.

Trained docents guide hikes and driving tours for public and school groups visiting the Konza Prairie. Other service opportunities include helping with K-12 student research activities, workdays and special projects. Docents also have the opportunity to attend educational in-service programs and social events.

For more information about Konza Prairie, the educational program and the docent program is available at http://www.k-state.edu/konza/keep or by contacting Wright at 785-587-0381 or konzaed@k-state.edu.