by Scott Hudson

Come One, Come All
It’s Hybrid Annual Meeting Time

In case you hadn’t heard, the Texas Master Naturalist Annual Meeting is coming to the DFW Airport Marriott October 21-24. It’s shaping up to be a great conference, with 100+ technical training sessions available.

Here are some important points, including some that aren’t on the state site. This link has further information about the meeting and how to register.

• Health and safety – Currently expect that masks and distancing will be urged. Conditions subject to change depending on guidance from health authorities.
• Volunteer opportunities – The meeting’s success depends on a big volunteer team. Sign-up is being developed and should be available soon.
• Scholarships: if you want to attend, we hope finances won’t get in the way. Need-based assistance for NTMN members is available. While funding is limited, note that some years’ scholarship money has gone unused.
• Hybrid means in-person and virtual presentations. For those who wish to join in online only, that registration offers a reduced rate.
• Field sessions will only be available to in-person participants. Recorded sessions will be available for later viewing.
• Due to COVID in-person attendance is limited to 400 slots. At this writing, in-person registration is still available.
• Don’t forget: our own Amy Martin is presenting the Friday night keynote on “The Wonder of North Texas Nature”!

Important dates:

• Project Fair Initial Paragraph Deadline is October 1
• Photo, Art, and Media Contest Deadline is September 30
• Video Contest Deadline is October 1
• Chapter Advisor Award Nominations Deadline is October 1
• Early registration closes August 31; standard registration closes October 1; late registration closes October 24

Looking forward to “seeing” you there!