Captivated By SCDNR

South Carolina Department of Natural Resources representative, (SCDNR), Mr. Alan Horrett, came to visit the students of Captivating Montessori School (CMS) on January 16, 2025 for our in-house field trip.  The older students who were seven years and older were challenged to take notes on any questions they had along with any interesting information that stood out to them about “nature police.”  To accompany this summary, the students’ notes have been used to bring insight from their point of view.

SCDNR police are called game wardens, and they are called to protect the wildlife as well as the vegetation.  All types of animals are rescued in the woods and in the bodies of water.  In the warmer seasons, Mr. Alan could be found on Lake Greenwood paying close attention to the many people who enjoy fun on the water.  Though the lake is a great place to explore, it could be rather dangerous if game wardens were not available to serve.  

The students learned that planes are not the vehicles most commonly used by game wardens.  They were excited to hear about four wheelers being the automobile of choice when trucks are not compact enough to move through smaller areas well.  Boats, drones, and even dogs are used!  During Hurricane Helene, the four wheeler was used to reach a woman who was trapped in her home.  The ambulance or fire truck could not reach her.  

Among the many deer, cats, dogs, and bald eagles that have been saved, the students learned that Mr. Alan, personally, has never had to save a raccoon or a gorilla.  A book called, The One and Only Ivan, must have still been on the child’s mind when that question,”Have you ever saved a gorilla?” was asked.  Having children who are raised to rescue and nurture animals back to health made this field trip more captivating than they expected.  Mr. Alan’s favorite animal to save is a deer.  One student left this exact question on their paper that read, “What wod the anmalls do with oot you?”  The CMS homeschool enrichment group was thankful for the opportunity to learn more about how people help make a difference in the community.  To find out more about the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources, check out their website at www.dnr.sc.gov.

Written by Jenae Chiles

Mr. Alan answering the students' questions.