The basic training course covers knowledge and skills that every Virginia master naturalist should have. Topics range from biology and geology of the region to citizen science and the role of Virginia state agencies in the management and conservation of natural resources.

It normally runs from February to September, with a long summer break. For 2026, classes will be held weekly on Tuesday evenings from February to April and August to September, from 6 to 9 p.m. at the McKinney Science Center at Bridgewater College.

The training includes 40 hours of classroom instruction as well as 10 hours of field trips which can be completed during the summer months.

Classes will include presentations from local experts on birds, reptiles and amphibians, interpretation, urban environments, ecology, botany, trees, fish, pollinators, management of wildlife areas, invasives, geology, insects, and mammals. Zoom attendance is possible for occasional times when participants may not be able to attend in person.

At the end of the training, students will be asked to make a short presentation to the class on a topic of their interest.

If you have questions about the Basic Training classes, please contact Lincoln Gray, graylc [at] jmu.edu, Headwaters Chapter Basic Training Committee Chair.