tyflier
[Insert Witty Commentary]
I am SO excited! Several months ago, I started seriously contemplating the logistics of starting a herp club for my area. Working in a pet shop, I knew that there were a LOT of people with at least an interest in reptiles and amphibians, as well as several individuals with a keen interest in captive and wild herps. Plus a couple breeder friends and long-time local herpers, whose support I was hoping for.
I started tossing the idea around to people that came into the shop, trying to get a feel for what people might think of the idea, and I recieved a LOT of positive reactions. It seemed that there were a lot of people interested in getting together for some talking, herping, and educational "stuff"...for both us and the community.
Yesterday was the first "official" meeting. I knew I would be there...I didn't know about anyone else. And I have NO experience to go on. So...I walked to the meeting location, got some notes together, and waited for people to show up.
I had 10 people, besides myself show up. I had 2 long-time field herpers and friends of mine, whose experience and input is a tremendous asset. A local doctor and his wife, who happens to be quite well-versed in local amphibians and lizards. A local field Biologist for the DWP, and several other interested individuals.
The best part...everyone was just as excited as I am to get this going. Everyone had good ideas, great levels of interest, a willingness to contribute and commit to make this thing work, and a really incredibly positive attitude. Everyone seemed to have aspirations and ideas...which is definitely a good thing.
So...it's official. The Eastern Sierra Herp Club is off the ground and running. At our next month's meeting, we will establish our "Code of Ethics", discuss "leadership" options, and make plans for our first Group Field Trip to take place at the end of March.
Today, I started a blog to get the group out in the public eye, and try to draw in some more members. Anyone interested can check out http://EasternSierraHerps.WordPress.com
Anyone that finds themselves in the Eastern Sierra...look us up!!
I started tossing the idea around to people that came into the shop, trying to get a feel for what people might think of the idea, and I recieved a LOT of positive reactions. It seemed that there were a lot of people interested in getting together for some talking, herping, and educational "stuff"...for both us and the community.
Yesterday was the first "official" meeting. I knew I would be there...I didn't know about anyone else. And I have NO experience to go on. So...I walked to the meeting location, got some notes together, and waited for people to show up.
I had 10 people, besides myself show up. I had 2 long-time field herpers and friends of mine, whose experience and input is a tremendous asset. A local doctor and his wife, who happens to be quite well-versed in local amphibians and lizards. A local field Biologist for the DWP, and several other interested individuals.
The best part...everyone was just as excited as I am to get this going. Everyone had good ideas, great levels of interest, a willingness to contribute and commit to make this thing work, and a really incredibly positive attitude. Everyone seemed to have aspirations and ideas...which is definitely a good thing.
So...it's official. The Eastern Sierra Herp Club is off the ground and running. At our next month's meeting, we will establish our "Code of Ethics", discuss "leadership" options, and make plans for our first Group Field Trip to take place at the end of March.
Today, I started a blog to get the group out in the public eye, and try to draw in some more members. Anyone interested can check out http://EasternSierraHerps.WordPress.com
Anyone that finds themselves in the Eastern Sierra...look us up!!