WABASSO ISLAND , Fla. The Environmental Learning Center (ELC) has announced a master naturalist course to be held on the ELC campus beginning on September 30 and lasting through November 20. The adult educatioprogram, sponsored by the University of Florida, occurs on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 6 to 8 pm and a few Saturdays. Classes are limited to 16 participants.

The upcoming session is a freshwater wetlands module focusing on the general ecology, habitats, vegetation types, wildlife and conservation issues of marshes, swamps, lakes, rivers and streams. Students receive 40 educational contact hours that include classroom learning, field trips and practical experience in interpretation. Two other modules in the program cover coastal systems and upland habitats. Individuals completing all three receive a Master Naturalist Certificate from the University of Florida.

The objective of the Master Naturalist Program is to prepare individuals to share their knowledge with others, to help others develop a personal connection to the land/sea and their own environmental ethic. The course is ideally suited for ecotour guides, volunteers and employees of parks, nature centers, museums and historic sites and teachers seeking continuing education.

The cost is $225. Students receive detailed course manuals covering freshwater wetlands plants and animals.

For information and registration details contact ELC Education Coordinator Heather Stapleton at 772-589-5050 or Heather@DiscoverELC.org. The University's website for the program is www.MasterNaturalist.org.

The Environmental Learning Center is located north of Vero Beach off County Road 510 at the western edge of the Wabasso Bridge. Its 64-acre island campus includes exhibit areas, native plant gardens, picnic facilities, gift shop and visitor center. A list of its many field excursions including hikes, boat excursions, nature walks and bird watching can be found at www.DiscoverELC.org