ARMN Ozone Bioindicator Garden, July 3, 2024, taken by Barbara Hoffheins.
Arlington Regional Master Naturalist Ozone Bioindicator Garden
2025 marks the fifth year that the Arlington Regional Master Naturalist chapter has been operating an ozone bioindicator garden at Walter Reed Community Center in Arlington. This project is a collaboration with Arlington County, NASA, and the Harvard Smithsonian Center for Astrophysics Science Education, and it is part of a nationwide project to monitor the impact of ozone air pollution on plants. Gardens in the network have genetically identical plants from species and cultivars that are known to exhibit observable characteristics resulting from ozone air pollution. This year, the volunteer team monitoring the garden was selected as a "Snap Bean Group" by the National Ozone Garden Network. This recognition provides the opportunity to participate in workshops at the National Science Foundation National Center for Atmospheric Research and to receive funds to support their bioindicator garden and related public engagement activities.
2025 marks the fifth year that the Arlington Regional Master Naturalist chapter has been operating an ozone bioindicator garden at Walter Reed Community Center in Arlington. This project is a collaboration with Arlington County, NASA, and the Harvard Smithsonian Center for Astrophysics Science Education, and it is part of a nationwide project to monitor the impact of ozone air pollution on plants. Gardens in the network have genetically identical plants from species and cultivars that are known to exhibit observable characteristics resulting from ozone air pollution. This year, the volunteer team monitoring the garden was selected as a "Snap Bean Group" by the National Ozone Garden Network. This recognition provides the opportunity to participate in workshops at the National Science Foundation National Center for Atmospheric Research and to receive funds to support their bioindicator garden and related public engagement activities.
Ozone garden team members, L-R Anne Doll, Jon Bell, and Barbara Hoffheins at the at a March 9, 2024 Urban Garden event. Unknown photographer, with B. Hoffheins’ phone. In addition to Anne, Jon, and Barbara, ARMN Team Ozone includes Todd Minners and Claire Pascocello.
Jody Ullmann (center) receiving the Mary Reid Barrow Wildlife Advocate Award.
Tidewater Master Naturalist, Jody Ullmann, wins coveted Mary Reid Barrow Wildlife Advocate Award
Jody Ullmann, a member of the Tidewater Master Naturalist chapter since 2007, was awarded the Mary Reid Barrow Wildlife Advocate Award. This prestigious award, named for a former environmental reporter for the Virginian- Pilot and lifelong advocate for the environment, is given every year to someone in the Tidewater area that works to educate, celebrate or advocate for wildlife in the community. The announcement stated “Her work has empowered young people to become stewards of the environment and has brought local wildlife into focus for countless families.” Through her work with organizations like the Tidewater Master Naturalists, Lynnhaven River Now (LRnow) the Virginia Living Museum and her company Mud Puddle Science, Jody has consistently worked to engage diverse audiences to foster a deep connection with wildlife.
While working at the Virginia Living Museum caring for the non-live collection, Jody used the collection as a vehicle to allow people to make a personal connection with the animals and deepen their understanding of the importance of wildlife conservation, highlighting animals such as the endangered red wolf and the under-rated horseshoe crab.
As the Education Coordinator for LRNow, Jody developed environmental education programs for audiences pre-K through adults. Her ability to tailor these programs to different age groups ensured that participants gained a deeper understanding of local wildlife and the steps they could take to protect it. Her programs, which won national and international awards, celebrated the biodiversity of Hampton Roads and involved students in hands-on stewardship projects like building habitat for diamondback terrapins.
Jody’s recent venture into independent work with Mud Puddle Science reflects her continued commitment to educating the next generation about wildlife. Through creative, adventure-based programs, she brings nature directly to children across the region and pushes the boundaries of environmental education.
Jody’s career of more than 40 years has always been about more than just teaching. It’s about fostering a deep love for the environment and inspiring others to take action. Her commitment to creating future wildlife advocates shone through in her work with teens in the Junior Master Naturalist Program that she ran for 5 years and in her current work with younger children and families through her Master Naturalist programs. Whether through summer camps, sailing expeditions, hands-on programs with animal ambassadors or training classroom teachers, Jody consistently embodies the values this award seeks to honor.
Jody Ullmann, a member of the Tidewater Master Naturalist chapter since 2007, was awarded the Mary Reid Barrow Wildlife Advocate Award. This prestigious award, named for a former environmental reporter for the Virginian- Pilot and lifelong advocate for the environment, is given every year to someone in the Tidewater area that works to educate, celebrate or advocate for wildlife in the community. The announcement stated “Her work has empowered young people to become stewards of the environment and has brought local wildlife into focus for countless families.” Through her work with organizations like the Tidewater Master Naturalists, Lynnhaven River Now (LRnow) the Virginia Living Museum and her company Mud Puddle Science, Jody has consistently worked to engage diverse audiences to foster a deep connection with wildlife.
While working at the Virginia Living Museum caring for the non-live collection, Jody used the collection as a vehicle to allow people to make a personal connection with the animals and deepen their understanding of the importance of wildlife conservation, highlighting animals such as the endangered red wolf and the under-rated horseshoe crab.
As the Education Coordinator for LRNow, Jody developed environmental education programs for audiences pre-K through adults. Her ability to tailor these programs to different age groups ensured that participants gained a deeper understanding of local wildlife and the steps they could take to protect it. Her programs, which won national and international awards, celebrated the biodiversity of Hampton Roads and involved students in hands-on stewardship projects like building habitat for diamondback terrapins.
Jody’s recent venture into independent work with Mud Puddle Science reflects her continued commitment to educating the next generation about wildlife. Through creative, adventure-based programs, she brings nature directly to children across the region and pushes the boundaries of environmental education.
Jody’s career of more than 40 years has always been about more than just teaching. It’s about fostering a deep love for the environment and inspiring others to take action. Her commitment to creating future wildlife advocates shone through in her work with teens in the Junior Master Naturalist Program that she ran for 5 years and in her current work with younger children and families through her Master Naturalist programs. Whether through summer camps, sailing expeditions, hands-on programs with animal ambassadors or training classroom teachers, Jody consistently embodies the values this award seeks to honor.
Fairfax Master Naturalists share information at the American Horticultural Society's River Farm Spring Garden Market. Photo by Jerry Nissley, VMN-Fairfax Chapter.
Bluebird box demonstration. Photo by Jerry Nissley, VMN-Fairfax Chapter. Fairfax Master Naturalists Partner with the American Horticultural Society's River Farm
In 2024, the American Horticultural Society (AHS) contacted VMN - Fairfax Chapter (FMN) to volunteer and help rebuild the nest boxes along their blue bird trail. VMN volunteer Susan Farmer became the FMN liaison for this and other activities on location. She organized a team of stalwart FMN volunteers to help River Farm rebuild their bluebird box trail. Eight boxes were replaced and, ten sad boxes were removed and salvaged for parts. She then organized trail monitoring training and managed the seasonal monitoring schedule. The monitors observed/reported 11 eggs. Eleven volunteers reported 90+ hours to River Farm opportunities.
In 2025, River Farm asked FMN to continue trail support, which started in March. FMN was also invited to set up a chapter table and participate with approximately 35 vendors and organizations at their annual showcase event, “River Farm Spring Garden Market” April. We were able to provide information on VMN, the bluebird trail, and Northern Virginia Bluebird Society (NVBS) in general. We emphasized the importance of native plant habitat, and enlightened the community to VMN’s mission of conservation of natural resources in Virginia, Fairfax County, and the Potomac River.
The weather could have been better but we were honored to be part of River Farm’s showcase spring event - and the grounds were spectacular with seasonal blooms. It was encouraging to see the plant vendors offer only organic starter vegetables, Virginia native flowers, shrubs, and trees. In addition, several artisans were on site selling crafts, nature photography, herbalists, soaps, and even a mystery writer with his new novel of intrigue in Old Town Alexandria.
Thank you to the following FMNs for their continued contributions at River Farm:
Susan Farmer, Donna Stauffer, Sarah Glassco, John Fagan, Monica Hoffman, Rachel Roll, and Jerry Nissley
In 2024, the American Horticultural Society (AHS) contacted VMN - Fairfax Chapter (FMN) to volunteer and help rebuild the nest boxes along their blue bird trail. VMN volunteer Susan Farmer became the FMN liaison for this and other activities on location. She organized a team of stalwart FMN volunteers to help River Farm rebuild their bluebird box trail. Eight boxes were replaced and, ten sad boxes were removed and salvaged for parts. She then organized trail monitoring training and managed the seasonal monitoring schedule. The monitors observed/reported 11 eggs. Eleven volunteers reported 90+ hours to River Farm opportunities.
In 2025, River Farm asked FMN to continue trail support, which started in March. FMN was also invited to set up a chapter table and participate with approximately 35 vendors and organizations at their annual showcase event, “River Farm Spring Garden Market” April. We were able to provide information on VMN, the bluebird trail, and Northern Virginia Bluebird Society (NVBS) in general. We emphasized the importance of native plant habitat, and enlightened the community to VMN’s mission of conservation of natural resources in Virginia, Fairfax County, and the Potomac River.
The weather could have been better but we were honored to be part of River Farm’s showcase spring event - and the grounds were spectacular with seasonal blooms. It was encouraging to see the plant vendors offer only organic starter vegetables, Virginia native flowers, shrubs, and trees. In addition, several artisans were on site selling crafts, nature photography, herbalists, soaps, and even a mystery writer with his new novel of intrigue in Old Town Alexandria.
Thank you to the following FMNs for their continued contributions at River Farm:
Susan Farmer, Donna Stauffer, Sarah Glassco, John Fagan, Monica Hoffman, Rachel Roll, and Jerry Nissley
Some of the team who planted hundreds of pine trees in an Isle of Wight County park. Photo by Isle of Wight County Parks and Recreation. Newly Planted Pines Will Protect Water Quality
Historic Southside Master Naturalist volunteers joined with the Virginia Department of Forestry and Isle of Wight County Parks and Recreation to plant 700 loblolly pine trees in Nike Park. The trees will increase wildlife habitat and provide a riparian buffer to protect the nearby creek.
Historic Southside Master Naturalist volunteers joined with the Virginia Department of Forestry and Isle of Wight County Parks and Recreation to plant 700 loblolly pine trees in Nike Park. The trees will increase wildlife habitat and provide a riparian buffer to protect the nearby creek.
Sierra Club Recognizes Susan McSwain
Through their Earth Flag awards, the Piedmont Group of the Virginia Chapter of the Sierra Club recognizes volunteers who make a difference in protecting nature in Central Virginia. On May 1, 2025, Virginia Master Naturalist volunteer (Central Blue Ridge Chapter) Susan McSwain was awarded an Earth Flag for her many contributions to sustainability and environmental education. Susan is part of the VMN Golden Circle, having completed more than 5,000 hours of volunteer service as a VMN volunteer, including many leadership roles in her chapter, leading a long-running butterfly count in the area, and monitoring bluebirds. Susan also has promoted land conservation, solid waste reduction, the creation of a new Nelson County park, and habitat protection for chimney swifts. Congratulations, Susan!
Read more about Susan and see a video of her receiving the Earth Flag
Through their Earth Flag awards, the Piedmont Group of the Virginia Chapter of the Sierra Club recognizes volunteers who make a difference in protecting nature in Central Virginia. On May 1, 2025, Virginia Master Naturalist volunteer (Central Blue Ridge Chapter) Susan McSwain was awarded an Earth Flag for her many contributions to sustainability and environmental education. Susan is part of the VMN Golden Circle, having completed more than 5,000 hours of volunteer service as a VMN volunteer, including many leadership roles in her chapter, leading a long-running butterfly count in the area, and monitoring bluebirds. Susan also has promoted land conservation, solid waste reduction, the creation of a new Nelson County park, and habitat protection for chimney swifts. Congratulations, Susan!
Read more about Susan and see a video of her receiving the Earth Flag
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