How do I become a master naturalist?

To become a master naturalist, you must complete the required training course including 40 hours of classroom instruction and 10 hours of field trips.

To be certified annually, you must complete 8 hours of advanced learning through approved continuing education opportunities and 40 hours of volunteering in the projects of your choice. Hours count towards certification after you have graduated from the training course.

What do Headwaters master naturalists do?

Master naturalists contribute time in different ways, including education and outreach, science activities (such as data collection or monitoring), stewardship (such as invasive plant removal and habitat restoration), and chapter leadership.

All volunteer time must be dedicated to the beneficial management of natural resources within the local community, and must be for public benefit rather than personal gain. Projects can be one-time or ongoing, and can be completed independently or as a part of a team. All projects must be approved by the chapter, and new projects can be submitted for approval at any time.

Continuing education hours allow master naturalists to advance their skills and knowledge in specific topics that interest them and relate to the work they wish to do. CE hours must also be approved, but there’s a wide range of opportunities to complete this requirement, and hours can be met through webinars or in-person presentations.

More information about projects and continuing education opportunities can be found in the “What we do” section.