The presentation “BP Oil Spill” given to the Chert Glade Master Naturalist on August 9, 2010 was conceived by two chapter master naturalists and one of the Missouri Department of Conservation sponsors.

They wanted the skit to be an angry satire. Their first idea was to be scientists from the Concerned Union of Mad Scientists and then one of the naturalists remembered a workshop given by the MDC sponsor on recipes for disaster. The other naturalist picked up on the idea and suggested that they bring back Julia Child and make the presentation a cooking program.

It clicked, and they both agreed that it would be easier to find props for a cooking show. They practiced and practiced and their skit evolved each time. The son of one naturalist was on hand helping with the practice and contributing a lot of the dialogue.

The program started with the skit where they cooked up a recipe for disaster. This was followed by a demonstration on the effects of oil on waterfowl and then a grassroots discussion to discover ideas that the group could do to reduce their carbon footprint.

The Chert Glade Chapter of Master Naturalists will collect “green ideas” that could be adopted by the group. For August, all members will track their recyclables and bring a list to the next meeting. A prize will be awarded to some lucky participant!