By MIKE COURSON
Great Bend Post
Pam Martin served as the education specialist for the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks for nearly 15 years. Her retirement last September opened the door for a new hire at the Kansas Wetlands Education Center. Natalie Unruh graduated from the University of Wyoming in December and accepted the position as new education specialist earlier this month. She's now ready to share her knowledge with area students and wildlife enthusiasts.
"After learning about wildlife biology," she said, "I think it's good to be able to share that knowledge a little bit with kids and try to spark some of that curiosity that can help kids understand our environment and want to protect it for the future."
After graduating from Haven High School, Unruh obtained her bachelor's degree in wildlife biology from the University of Wyoming in Laramie. Her studies and her new job are a reflection of her interests.
"I've always had a fascination with animals and the world around me," she said. "I wanted to work with our natural systems here in North America instead of in a zoo. Wildlife biology was just a perfect major for me."
Unruh has hit the ground running, including several Kansas Day programs at area elementary schools on Monday. She's ready to continue and build on the many educational programs offered by KWEC - and for some warmer weather.
"I'm definitely looking forward to the spring, summer, and fall seasons when I can actually get outside with kids and do some nature hikes and hopefully answer questions they have," she said. "I'm ready to get outside after all this cold weather we've had."