Marissa Reckner: PA Master Naturalist Volunteer of the Month

Meet Melissa Reckner, our Volunteer of the Month and a dedicated member of the PA Master Naturalist program!

Melissa first heard about the Master Naturalist program years ago, but living in Somerset County made it difficult to participate when courses were only offered in eastern Pennsylvania. That changed in 2018 when she began working as Program Manager at Brandywine Conservancy’s Penguin Court Preserve in Westmoreland County. When asked to envision new programming, bringing the Master Naturalist program to the site was one of her first ideas, and one that soon became reality.

In 2019, when a training course was offered in nearby Allegheny County, the opportunity to expand into Westmoreland became tangible. Since then, Melissa has helped coordinate multiple trainings at Penguin Court, creating opportunities for adult learners to connect more deeply with the natural world. With a focus on engaging adults, the program has proven to be a perfect fit for the preserve and the surrounding community.

For Melissa, being a Pennsylvania Master Naturalist means serving as a steward and guardian of the natural world while building meaningful connections with others who share that passion. The sense of community has been especially impactful, offering both inspiration and support, and forming friendships that continue to uplift and encourage. One of the most rewarding aspects of her work is seeing trainees light up as they learn something new, a reminder of the lasting impact of environmental education.

Over the years, Melissa has experienced many memorable moments. Coordinating a training in Cambria County alongside colleague Jackie Ritko stands out as a highlight, especially a geology field trip spent exploring sunlit rock quarries in search of fossils and unique formations. Another unforgettable experience came during an ecology class at Penguin Court in 2022, when a bobcat crossed a field in full view of participants, a powerful reminder of the beauty and wildness of Pennsylvania’s landscapes.

With a background in watershed work, Melissa continues to stay connected to conservation efforts that protect and restore local waterways. Whether facilitating projects, offering guidance, or handling essential administrative work, she is committed to making a difference. Helping turn “orange streams blue again” and fostering a deeper appreciation for the natural world remains at the heart of her efforts.

For anyone considering becoming a Pennsylvania Master Naturalist, Melissa’s advice is simple: do it. The program offers a chance to learn something new, no matter how long you’ve lived in a place, while building curiosity, community, and a renewed sense of wonder. It’s also a reminder to slow down, explore, and reconnect with the environment around us, something that is vital to our well-being.

Through her leadership and dedication, Melissa has helped expand the reach of the Pennsylvania Master Naturalist program in western Pennsylvania and inspire others to get involved. Thank you, Melissa, for your commitment to conservation, education, and community!