Autumn Naturalist Adventure at DeSoto State Park

The Autumn Naturalist Adventure at DeSoto State Park was a success!

JSU Field Schools, the National Park Service and Alabama State Parks partnered to present “A Naturalist Adventure” at DeSoto State Park on November 9, 2007.  Around 50 members of the Asbury School from Madison, Alabama enjoyed exploring Little River, storytelling, botany, pottery making, and a Native American tools and weapons program.

Group leader Shelly Miller sums up the group's appreciation of this special venture:

“I think you know from talking to our parents that Friday was a great day, and we thought JSU and all your arrangements were wonderful!  The kids loved it & the parents were all giggling as we were smashing our clay into who-knows-what.  It was just a fun day had by all.  The educational content was perfect for our group, and it was an overall great experience. 

Thanks again for your arrangements and planning with DeSoto State Park and the National Park Service, plus special thanks to your JSU student workers.  We are interested in your programs for the upcoming months-a big thank you to everyone involved!”

JSU Field School leaders (left to right) Renee Morrison, Teje Sult, Jamie Beane, Mandy Pearson and Bobby Floyd.

Asbury students begin to let their creative energy flow.

Bobby Floyd, JSU Field School Assistant, prepares to roll the chunky ball…a Native American game where the students try to toss their sticks closest to the target.

Larry Beane, National Park Service, teaches a group of students how to use an atlatl (spear thrower).

Tammy Beane, a world-renown artist, demonstrates how to create pottery to this group of K-8 graders.

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