As summer gives way to the bright, crisp days of autumn, the Saugeen Field Naturalists don a sweater that presents a fresh, new face to the public.
Following a vote at the Annual General Meeting, the club has adopted a public persona as Saugeen Nature and will move forward with this as our public presentation. Of course, this was a difficult decision and as with any change, engendered much discussion from all sides. We noted similar changes taking place with many provincial naturalists groups following the Federation of Ontario Naturalists’ decision to rebrand as Ontario Nature. A controversial decision at the time, the success of a revamped public profile has been undeniable.
Our thinking works along a similar vein. The Field Naturalists title is respected and speaks of a noble tradition and this move is not meant to demean that tradition whatsoever. What we have found, is that the field naturalists title carries a certain baggage and implies a certain level of expertise. As we move forward with declining membership and a necessity to reach out to the public, Saugeen Nature seems a bit more friendly, casual and perhaps inviting.
The club does not lose it’s official designation as the Saugeen Field Naturalists but moves forward as Saugeen Nature in our public presentations and publications.
So, welcome to Saugeen Nature !
We look forward to your input and suggestions as we forge a new path forward.
