Mario Bautista
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To learn more about the East Central Illinois Master Naturalist program, visit go.illinois.edu/ecimn.
The East Central Illinois Master Naturalists, in partnership with the Urbana Park District, are proud to celebrate Climate Action Week, set for Oct. 5-11 this year.
This weeklong event brings together community members, environmental advocates and nature lovers to engage in meaningful discussions and activities designed to promote climate awareness and action.
In collaboration with local organizations, the Master Naturalists are excited to offer a range of events that highlight the importance of sustainability, environmental stewardship and community action in the fight against climate change. The schedule of events includes opportunities for residents of all ages to learn how they can make a difference in protecting the planet.
“The weather we grew up with, the seasons in and of our lifetime, are changing,” says Master Naturalist Chuck Berschinski. “We are learning new words from the Weather Service — derecho, bomb cyclone, et cetera. We all like stability. We prefer things, especially the seasons, to remain predictable. Things are not as they used to be.”
“Climate change is an issue that affects all of us,” says Environmental and Energy Stewardship Educator Karla Griesbaum, “and the East Central Illinois Master Naturalists are committed to helping our community understand both the challenges we face and the actions we can take to make a difference.”
Through Climate Action Week, we want to inspire residents to engage in sustainable practices and learn how they can contribute to a healthier, more resilient environment.”
The Master Naturalists will be hosting:
- A booth at the Fall Fusion Festival, 3 to 7 p.m. Oct. 5.
- Ecosystem Effects of Climate Change, 2 to 3 p.m. Oct. 6, Weaver Park, Urbana.
- Native Tree ID Walk, 4 to 5 p.m. Oct. 8, Crystal Lake Park Boathouse, Urbana.
To register for any of these great events, visit go.illinois.edu/climateaction.
As part of the week’s festivities, the Master Naturalists will participate in an “Ask a Master Naturalist” series, where they will be present at various community events to answer any questions about climate change and provide practical solutions to help reduce their carbon footprint. These interactive sessions are designed to provide expert advice on local climate action, biodiversity conservation and sustainable living practices.
Residents are encouraged to stop by and talk with these knowledgeable volunteers at any of the events during Climate Action Week. Just look for the bright orange shirts.
For a full schedule of Climate Action Week events, visit urbanaparks.org/programs/environmental-events.
“Master Naturalists are always excited for opportunities to connect with the community and discuss important issues like climate change,” Griesbaum says. “We welcome any chance to share our knowledge and help people understand how they can make a positive impact, whether it’s through simple lifestyle changes or larger community actions. Together, we can make a difference.”
Past events hosted by the East Central Illinois Master Naturalists have shown the power of community driven environmental action. From conservation efforts to educational programs, these initiatives foster not only a love for nature but also a shared responsibility to protect it. Climate Action Week is another vital step toward building a more resilient and environmentally conscious community, and organizers hope to inspire participants to take their new knowledge beyond the week’s events and implement lasting change in their daily lives.
