Discover the fascinating world of wetlands through our Wetland Naturalist Workshops at the Indreland Audubon Wetland Preserve. Designed for lifelong learners, nature enthusiasts, educators, and aspiring naturalists, these hands-on workshops combine expert instruction with field experiences to explore wetland ecology, plants, wildlife, soils, and hydrology. As you learn alongside scientists and naturalists, you’ll gain practical field skills and a deeper understanding of the vital role wetlands play in supporting biodiversity and healthy ecosystems.
Tuesday, July 7, 2026
Wetland Birds Workshop
Kevin Cox. Sacajawea Audubon Society
This workshop with Sacajawea Audubon’s own Kevin Cox focuses on the study of key wetland bird species, including their habitat requirements, behaviors, and ecological roles within wetland ecosystems. Participants will learn how birds depend on wetlands for nesting, feeding, migration, and survival while exploring the adaptations that allow them to thrive in these environments. A field trip will provide hands-on opportunities for wildlife observation and bird identification, helping participants develop skills to recognize and appreciate Montana’s diverse wetland bird communities.
Thursday, July 9, 2026
Wetland Restoration Techniques
Connor Parish. Trout Unlimited
This workshop with Connor Parish from Trout Unlimited explores techniques and strategies used in wetland restoration, with an emphasis on how degraded wetlands can be rehabilitated to restore ecological function and habitat value. Participants will examine case studies of successful wetland restoration projects in Montana, highlighting the methods used and the outcomes achieved. The discussion will also cover local opportunities for involvement in restoration efforts, encouraging engagement in ongoing conservation and stewardship initiatives.
Saturday, July 11, 2026
Field Trip to Story Mill Wetland
Rich McEldowney. Confluence Consulting
Visit the beautiful Story Mill Wetland with Rich McEldowney, Wetland Group Manager and Riparian Ecologist for Confluence Consulting, to learn how they are successfully restoring our region’s wetlands.
Tuesday, July 14, 2026
Wetland Soils and Geology Workshop
Erik Anderson. US Forest Service
This workshop with Erik Anderson from the US Forest Service explores the unique soils found in Montana’s wetlands, including different wetland soil types, sedimentation processes, and the formation of these important ecological foundations. Participants will learn how wetland soils develop, how they support nutrient cycling, and why they are essential to wetland function and health. A hands-on activity involving soil sampling and analysis will provide practical experience in examining wetland soils and understanding their role within these complex ecosystems.
Thursday, July 16, 2026
Wetland Mammals Workshop
Frank Marchak. Indreland Audubon Wetland Preserve
This workshop with Frank Marchak, Indreland Audubon Wetland Preserve President, focuses on the study of key wetland mammals, exploring their habitat requirements, behaviors, and ecological roles within wetland ecosystems. Participants will learn how mammals depend on wetlands for food, shelter, breeding, and movement while gaining insight into the adaptations that help them thrive in these environments. A field trip will provide hands-on opportunities for wildlife observation and identification, allowing participants to apply their knowledge while exploring Montana’s wetland habitats.
Tuesday, July 21, 2026
Wetland Insects and Amphibians
Hannah Cantú. MSU Bozeman
This workshop with Hannah Cantu focuses on key wetland amphibians and insects, exploring their habitat requirements, behaviors, and ecological roles within wetland ecosystems. Participants will learn how these species depend on wetland environments for breeding, feeding, and survival, as well as the adaptations that allow them to thrive in aquatic and semi-aquatic habitats. A field trip will provide hands-on opportunities for wildlife observation and identification, helping participants build skills in recognizing and understanding the diversity of wetland invertebrates and amphibians.
Thursday, July 23, 2026
Wetland Conservation, Policy, and Communication.
Bill Kleindl
This workshop with Bill Kleindl, Assistant Research Professor for the Land Resources and Environmental Sciences at Montana State University provides an overview of the state, federal, and local policies that influence wetland protection and management in Montana, including the regulatory frameworks that guide conservation practices and restoration efforts.
Participants will explore wetland management strategies, permitting considerations, and the important role that non-governmental organizations play in shaping wetland policy, stewardship, and long-term conservation. The workshop will also highlight opportunities for community involvement through wetland monitoring, citizen science initiatives, and hands-on conservation efforts. Emphasis will be placed on developing effective community education and outreach programs that inspire awareness, engagement, and action to protect Montana’s valuable wetland ecosystems.
We hope you can join us! To register, visit: https://secure.lglforms.com/form_engine/s/KNy2Kum6EdelGORUA7yVQA