Training program for ‘master naturalist’ set for this fall
By Pam Owen
Are you curious about nature? Do you enjoy the outdoors? Do you want to help conserve Virginia’s natural resources? Do you enjoy volunteering? Then you’re a perfect candidate to become a Virginia Master Naturalist.
The Old Rag Chapter of the Virginia Master Naturalist Program is now accepting applications for Master Naturalist certification training this fall.
Sponsored by Virginia Cooperative Extension, Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation, Virginia Department of Forestry, Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries, and the Virginia Museum of Natural History, the Virginia Master Naturalist Program is designed to train local residents to become skilled in education outreach, environmental stewardship, and citizen science in the natural sciences.
The Old Rag Chapter serves Rappahannock, Greene, Culpeper, and western Fauquier and Orange counties. The 40-hour certification training includes instruction in a full spectrum of natural sciences: Virginia biogeography; biology topics, such as ornithology (the study of birds) and botany (the study of plants); management and conservation of ecological systems, such as forests and wetlands; teaching and interpretive skills; and citizen science and research skills.
The training will focus on the Blue Ridge and Piedmont biogeographic regions. Taught by professionals whose affiliations include the program’s sponsoring agencies, the University of Virginia, and James Madison University, the training will consist of 12 classroom sessions and four field trips. Classes are once a week, Monday or Wednesday, from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., from September 17 through December 3.
The location will alternate between Madison and Rappahannock counties.
To be certified as Virginia Master Naturalists, participants are also required to give 40 hours of volunteer service to sponsors and partners and engage in an additional 8 hours of advanced training annually. Volunteerism is at the core of the program, so applicants should ensure they have the time to meet their volunteering commitment to the program before applying.
The cost of the Old Rag Chapter training is $120, with up to $30 in additional fees. Class size is limited to 25. The application deadline is August 15.
For additional information, or to receive an application, contact Cathy Mayes at 540-364-4525 or OldRagMN@gmail.com, visit the Old Rag Chapter’s website at www.virginiamasternaturalist.org/oldrag.html, or write to Old Rag Chapter, VMN, General Delivery, Syria, Virginia 22743. Applications will also be available at local Virginia Cooperative Extension offices and libraries.
-- Pam Owen
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