Master Naturalist Spring 2018 Training

I have a newfound appreciation and respect for the flora and fauna of Maryland! I can’t wait to share what I’ve learned! – Michele

What is a Master Naturalist?

Certified Master Naturalists support the conservation of natural resources, and help educate the community about local flora and fauna. They assist in park stewardship, conduct field research, and lead educational programs. Master Naturalists are recognized state-wide as expert volunteers.

How Do I Become a Master Naturalist?

The training program at Montgomery Parks consists of 72-hours of hands-on classroom presentations and field trip experiences led by local ecology experts. You’ll learn to identify and explore the natural history of birds, mammals, reptiles, amphibians, fish, insects, plants, and fungi. You’ll also practice field study techniques, park stewardship, and interpretive skills.

I learned so much more than I anticipated. I didn’t know what I didn’t know! The [presentation] speakers are in the top of their fields and have amazing knowledge. – Julie

Certification Requirements:

• Complete the 12-week training program and exam
• Participate in a group project and presentation
• Volunteer at least 40 hours of service to Montgomery Parks within the first year

To maintain certification, you must complete 8 hours of advanced training and forty hours of volunteer service each year.

The program opened up so many more opportunities than I was aware of. – Chuck

Application Process:

1. Complete the application (Click Here: https://goo.gl/forms/46ElwhPZ7sYrSpO02) by January 15, 2018
2. Interview with a program facilitator
3. Agree to a background check
4. If accepted, pay your registration fee to the University of Maryland Extension by January 30, 2017

The cost for the course is $250 and is limited to 18 students (18 years and older). The course fee includes all speaker dues, publications, course materials, and general supplies.

Schedule

Classes will meet every Wednesday from 9:30am to 4:30pm, February 28th to May 30th . There will be no class on April 4th and 11th.

Fantastic program! It definitely opened my eyes and mind to the many great resources available in Montgomery County. How important it is for everyone to be connected to nature! I learned by lectures, field trips, and fellow students. It was better than even my high expectations. – Jane

Location

Our meeting location will rotate among Montgomery Parks’ many Centers, to expose Master Naturalist Trainees to a variety of both indoor and outdoor resources. We will primarily meet at Meadowside Nature Center in Rockville, Brookside Nature Center in Silver Spring, Black Hill Visitor Center in Boyds, and Locust Grove Nature Center in Bethesda. We will also tour various historical sites, parks, and conservation areas. A full schedule of topics and rotating meeting locations will be shared on request.

When will this Program be Offered Again?

Montgomery Parks offers this program only once a year, generally in later winter or early spring. Currently, we can offer this program only during weekdays, however, as the program grows, we hope to one day be able to offer this program on weekends or evenings. The Maryland Master Naturalist program is a statewide certification that is offered at many locations throughout the year. Check out the University of Maryland Extension Office page for additional meeting locations and dates.

Contact

Jackie Raiford
jacqueline.raiford@montgomeryparks.org
301.765.8661

This event will be held at Locust Grove Nature Center Black Hill Nature Programs Brookside Nature Center Meadowside Nature Center