My Background
Hi there and thank you for visiting Blue Heron Nature Tours!
I’m a Master Naturalist and Certified Interpretive Guide with 30 years of experience as a scholar, professional biologist, writer and educator.
I never get tired of learning more about our natural world and love sharing my knowledge and curiosity with folks of all backgrounds, experience levels and ages.
B.S. Wildlife Biology
University of Missouri-Columbia and University of Montana1998Technical Science Writer
U.S. Forest Service Fire Effects Information System2005-2008Educator
Montana Natural History CenterMissoula Lifelong Learning Center2018 – PresentField Biologist
U.S. Forest Service2001-2004
Western Montana is loaded with excellent places to recreate, admire wildlife, marvel at wildflowers and find solitude.
As a Missoula resident of over two decades I know the best places at the right time of year to enjoy these activities and I would love to share them with you!
Montana has over 400 bird species living in a variety of habitats.
On a bird walk we will use high-quality binoculars and a spotting scope to see everything from calliope hummingbirds to great horned owls.
I offer guided hikes from 2 to 8 miles long in various amazing locations where we will explore forests, rivers and grasslands and the plants, birds, mammals and butterflies that call them home.
Cross-country skiing is a combination of an awesome workout and a meditation in the woods at the same time.
We can ski in Missoula generally from the end of December to the end of February. The season is even longer at Lolo Pass, on the border of Montana and Idaho.
You can choose to ski in Missoula or Lolo Pass and we can do 2 to 6 miles. Any level of experience is welcome and skis can be rented in Missoula. I’ll supply the hot cocoa and homemade cookies!
On a plant walk I’ll teach you how to identify native plants and how they can be used for food, medicine, cordage, dyes, and more.
Rattlesnake Creek is home to a myriad of aquatic microorganisms such as mayfly, caddisfly and stonefly larvae, riffle beetles and flatworms, which indicate good water quality.
On an aquatic invertebrate exploration we will collect these fascinating critters using a kick net, then identify them before returning them to the water.
Sounds weird? It is, and a whole lot of fun too. You won’t believe the complexity of life right in our creek.
