What is a naturalist?

“Naturalists are curious, observant, and passionate about the world around them, with a particular fascination for nature. Naturalists often document what they see, enjoy sharing their knowledge, and are motivated to continually expand their knowledge.” (Chris Buddle,  Arthropod Ecology)

We welcome anyone interested in the study, conservation, and enjoyment of nature. No formal training nor expertise is required, just a love of nature and a keen eye for observation.

Our club was established in the 1960s and was originally called the Georgetown and District Naturalists Association. We’re a member club of Ontario Nature (formerly Federation of Ontario Naturalists) and our members live in Halton and North Peel including Georgetown, Brampton, Acton, and Milton.

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Financial Statements 2020-2021
Income Statement
Balance Sheet

Financial Statements 2021-2022
Income Statement
Balance Sheet

Financial Statements 2022-2023
Income Statement
Balance Sheet

Financial Statements 2023-2024
Income Statement
Balance Sheet

Board of Directors 2024/25
President: Margaret Beaudette
Past President: Yves Scholten
Vice-President: Ian Jarvie
Acting Secretary: Pedro Pereyra
Treasurer: Helen Pettingill

Appointments
Membership Director: Leslie Bissegger
Communications Director: John Beaudette
Director at large: Fiona Reid
Director at large: Don Scallen
Director at large: Bill McIlveen

Our objectives:

1. To study, enjoy, and promote an understanding of and an interest in nature
2. To promote responsible attitudes toward the human use of the biosphere and to prevent its degradation
3. To promote the conservation of natural areas
4. To cooperate with Ontario Nature and other organizations that have the above or similar interests.
5. HNPNC Constitution (updated 2021)

Our club participates in:

• Monthly meetings with guest speakers and social time
• Field trips, hikes and outings
• Natural areas stewardship
• Environmental monitoring and habitat creation projects
• Newsletters featuring club activities and member’s articles

Special club activities:

• Natural Areas Inventories partnered with Conservation Authorities and other groups
• Christmas Bird Count and other birdwatching activities
• Bird Atlas and Tree Atlas projects
• Local tree planting, clean-up and habitat creation
• Amphibian monitoring, including salamanders and Frog Watch
• Stewardship and inventory of local nature reserves
• Leading hikes and nature outings for schools and other community groups
• Providing advice to local groups, town and regional councils on conservation issues, trail construction, woodlot management, land development etc.