Several years ago, I was able to participate in an eye-opening experience. My application for the Maine Master Naturalist Program was accepted. Suddenly, I found myself immersed in the world around me: learning to use dichotomous keys to identify species; collecting, mounting and labeling specimens; spending time at my sit spot while I sketched and wrote about my surroundings; gaining a better understanding of my own backyard and the lakes region.

This same opportunity could be yours. Co-coordinator Joan Lundin of Hollis and I, along with five mentors who also graduated from the program, will bring the Maine Master Naturalist’s Tier One program to Bridgton this year. The course will begin May 4 and last until Sept. 7. Part of the program’s mission is to create a ripple effect of volunteers within one-hour of the host site.

The Lakes Environmental Association has graciously agreed to provide space at the Maine Lake Science Center on Willet Road in Bridgton. This is a fabulous setting as it is adjacent to Pondicherry Park and not far from Holt Pond Preserve, both places that will serve as field trip destinations.

“As a science research center dedicated to understanding the natural world, we look forward to hosting the Maine Master Naturalist Program this summer,” said Dr. Bridie McGreavy, consulting executive director of the Maine Lake Science Center.

Students will participate in a rigorous set of classes and field experiences covering insects, wildflowers and shrubs, mammals, ferns, trees, birds, ecological principles, and the unique natural communities to be found in this area. The course consists of seven Wednesday evening classes, four full-day Saturday field trips, and 20 hours of volunteer work at a park, land trust, school or nonprofit.

If you live within and hour of Bridgton, have an enthusiastic curiosity about the natural world and the flora and fauna of Maine, you may be interested in a course of study with the Maine Master Naturalist Program this summer.

Tuition of $365 covers course instruction, books, equipment, handouts and supplies. Students completing the course and the requirements will be certified as Maine Associate Naturalists upon graduation.

The application period for the Bridgton course extends from Feb. 1 to March 15; applicants will be notified of acceptance by April 8.

For more information and an application visit www.mainemasternaturalist.org.