Understanding the complexity of nature is not an easy task. Ecologists examine interactions among plants, animals, and the surrounding environment. We had the exciting opportunity to host a workshop, “Explore Biodiversity: Become an Ecologist”, ... READ MORE
Category: 4-H & Youth, Natural Resources, UF/IFAS Extension
For centuries, wildfire has played a vital role in shaping our natural areas, creating a cycle of growth and decay. Prescribed fire mimics the cycle of natural fire in a controlled manner, proving to be an essential tool for land managers to ... READ MORE
Category: Natural Resources, UF/IFAS Extension
Florida is a popular tourist destination, averaging over 140 million visitors annually. Approximately half of visitors go to a natural area as part of their vacation. Many Florida residents also recreate locally in natural areas. Across the ... READ MORE
Category: Natural Resources, UF/IFAS ExtensionWhat is Biodiversity? Biodiversity is an abbreviation of the term “biological diversity”. It encompasses the variety of life on Earth, including genetic, species, and ecosystem variation. New species are being discovered every year, including ... READ MORE
Category: Natural Resources, UF/IFAS ExtensionThe Natural Areas Training Academy (NATA) had another successful year of supporting natural areas managers with professional development opportunities to conserve Florida’s natural resources. NATA offers courses on practical, field-oriented ... READ MORE
Category: Natural Resources, UF/IFAS ExtensionAs of November 2024, we’re excited to welcome Hannah as the newest member of NATA. Hannah is stepping into the role of Training Coordinator, taking over from Jessica, who has moved on to new opportunities. We would like to take a moment to ... READ MORE
Category: Natural Resources, UF/IFAS Extension
The Certificate in Natural Areas Management (CNAM) is offered by the Natural Areas Training Academy (NATA) to individuals who complete the four NATA 'core' courses and one wildland fire training. NATA offers courses on practical, field-oriented ... READ MORE
Category: Natural Resources, UF/IFAS Extension
Registration is currently open for NATA’s Managing Visitors and Volunteers course*! The goal of this course is to provide guidance on how to integrate visitors and volunteers in natural areas management. Participants will: Learn ... READ MORE
Category: Natural Resources, Professional Development, UF/IFAS Extension
NATA welcomes the new Workshop Coordinator, Cherice Smithers. As a native Floridian, Cherice has long been interested in the conservation of Florida’s natural resources. She received a B.S. in Wildlife Ecology and Conservation, and an M.S. ... READ MORE
Category: Natural Resources, Professional Development, UF/IFAS Extension
NATA was thrilled to be able to offer its first core workshop since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic. Managing for Diversity across Florida's Unique Landscapes was offered in a hybrid format (comprised of both an online and in-person component) ... READ MORE
Category: Natural Resources, Professional Development, UF/IFAS Extension