WC native honored as naturalist in South Dakota

PIERRE, South Dakota - Jody (Hartnett) Moats received the National Association of Interpretation's (NAI) Region V Master Frontline Interpreter Award at a conference held in Rochester, Minn., earlier this spring. Moats is the park naturalist at Adams Homestead and Nature Preserve in southeastern South Dakota. She is a 1990 graduate from Webster City High School, and is the daughter of Judy Hartnett and the late Darwin Hartnett of Webster City.

As a park naturalist, Moats creates, implements and provides natural and cultural history programs. She provides environmental education programs and interpretive information for school groups, scout groups, toddlers, senior citizens in addition to the general public.

"I know there are some people out there that think my job is a little weird, while others think it is real cool. Most of all, I know it is quite important. I will never make the big bucks, but I do receive so many other rewards. I am very proud to be in this profession, and I am honored to receive this award from NAI Region V," said Moats.

In order to receive the Frontline Interpreter award, an NAI member must have worked five or more years in the profession and his/her current duties must be at least 60 percent frontline interpretation. The member must demonstrate a mastery of interpretive techniques, program development and design of creative projects. In addition, the nominee must have three letters of support describing his or her involvement and achievement in frontline interpretation.

Region V is made up of North Dakota, South Dakota, Nebraska, Iowa, Minnesota, Illinois, Wisconsin and part of Manitoba, Canada.