I run the Naturalist Center here at the New Mexico Museum of
Natural History and Science.
        The Naturalist Center is open seven days a week all year round
except for non-holiday Mondays in January and September.  This gives us a
few days a year to paint, renovate, etc.
        We are open to both the public and we do reservations for school
groups.  From 9:00 am to 9:30 we are open to the public, we then fill
reservations from 9:30 to 10:30, are open to the public from 10:30 to
11:30, then, again, fill reservations from 11:30 to 12:30 - alternating
public and school reservation times to accommodate school groups. Teachers
reserve the Center in half-hour blocks.  I allow one class in at a time
plus chaperones (~ 35 people per visit) in the Center.
        I have a volunteer staff of 40 people plus exhibits, security and
custodial support from the Museum.  The day is divided into three - 2 hour
and 40 minute shifts.  Most of my volunteers work one shift a week filling
21 shifts.  A casual pool of volunteers fill vacancies when regulars go on
vacations, etc.  I have had additional support from a University of New
Mexico Work Study student; the aid is invaluable.
        I design and build many of the smaller exhibits my self.  To build
larger or more complicated exhibits, a person from Exhibits Department does
the bulk of the work.  A custodian cleans the Center once each day.
        I hope this information helps you.  Feel free to call at (505)
841-2853.

Mike Sanchez
Education Specialist


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Michael Sanchez
New Mexico Museum of Natural History and Science
Natural Center Supervisor
Phone 505-841-2853
FAX   505-841-2866
e-mail: [log in to unmask]
http://www.nmmnh-abq.mus.nm.us