It’s all natural.
That’s the attitude and name of NatureCK, the verbiage metamorphosis of the Sydenham Field Naturalists (SFN).
Following four decades of local conservation, environmental education, and community engagement, SFN is rebranding with a new name that better reflects their expanding vision.
The name NatureCK represents a unified commitment to protecting and celebrating the
rich biodiversity across all of Chatham-Kent.
While the legal name Sydenham Field Naturalists will remain in place, the group will now operate publicly as NatureCK,
Officials said the name better reflects the connection to the full geography and communities they serve.
To mark this meaningful transition and the group’s 40th anniversary, a ceremonial exchange was held during the anniversary banquet recently. As part of that ceremony, the founding members of the organization presented the current NatureCK board with a shovel signed by past presidents. The shovel will be used in future plantings, symbolizing that the foundational work of the early members continues to nourish the growth of the organization today.
In return, the NatureCK board gifted the founding members with a Burr Oak sapling, to be planted wherever they choose. The tree represents the acorn they once planted, the strong roots they nurtured, and the expanding canopy that NatureCK now offers to the people and ecosystems of Chatham-Kent, officials with NatureCK said.
“For four decades, our members have explored, protected, and advocated for the natural wonders of our region,” said the board in a joint statement. “Our new name allows us to grow with intention while staying grounded in our founding values.”
NatureCK will continue to offer public programs, field trips, citizen science initiatives, and community partnerships that nurture environmental stewardship across the region. The rebranding includes a new logo and updated website that reflect the group’s inclusive, accessible, and forward-looking mission.
“Our name may be new, but our purpose remains unchanged,” said the board. “We are still the voice of nature in Chatham-Kent–committed to fostering curiosity, conservation, and community.”
