Nature Study Journals (publications included here from 1964-2004), in 3-4 annually themed issues contained in-depth articles focused on nature study, nature education, environmental education, trends, issues, resources, opportunities and more all written and compiled by its members, guest writers and guest editors such as; L H Bailey, Anna Botsford Comstock, E L Palmer, Cap’n Bill Vinal, Roger Tory Peterson, Edwin Way Teale, Bill Sharp, Helen Ross Russell, Bill Stapp, Verne Rockcastle, John Serrao and Bill Hammond. The Journal often contained additional Teaching Tips.
Nature Study Journal themes included (not limited to): Interrelationships, Insects, Water, Amphibians, Forest, Winter, City, Writing for Children and many more. Index and Anniversary issues were published periodically. Books of related content for both children and adults, many authored by members, were reviewed in each issue. The 75th Anniversary Issue published in 1982 includes biographical sketches of all the ANSS Presidents to that date.
It may be interesting to note that the single illustration pictured front and center on the front cover of every Journal 1964-1969 was the sketch of a single racoon with the name ‘Rita’ written in small print under the image … is ‘Rita’ the illustrator? The racoon graced the cover regardless of the issue content/theme.
Journal issues from 1970-2004 then featured different cover illustrations and/or photographs related to the issue’s content. The racoon however was still featured on Journal covers through 1980 – smaller in stature but still prominent in the upper corner.
In 1982, ANSS featured the illustration of an owl as its new logo, designed by long time ANSS member and artist Susan Burleigh and would appear on/in all Society publications. Individuals contributing to Journal cover designs, illustrations and photographs were credited in most issues from 1970.
Missing Journal publications:
- *pre 1967
- *1978