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The Maryland Master Naturalist Program
a training program for volunteers who want to learn and share knowledge of the natural world in Maryland
Our Mission: To engage citizens as stewards of Maryland's natural ecosystems and resources through science-based education and volunteer service in their communities.
Be a Master Naturalist
Individuals accepted into the Master Naturalist training course receive 48 hours of instruction (60 hours starting in 2012), including hands-on experience outdoors. Instruction is specific to one of the three physiographic regions in Maryland: the Mountain, Piedmont, or Coastal Plain.
After training, participants volunteer in their region. At least 40 hours of approved service must be documented with the University of Maryland Extension each year. A wide variety of volunteer opportunities are possible, including environmental restoration projects, education, public awareness campaigns, and field research.
Master Naturalists must also complete at least 8 hours of advanced training annually.
Train Master Naturalists
The coursework and volunteer service are coordinated by Program Facilitators, professional environmentalists who have completed a one-day workshop in the administration of the Master Naturalist program.
Program Facilitators organize classes at Host Sites that have the resources for both indoor and outdoor education.The Program Facilitator might be an employee or associate at the Host Site.
The Program Facilitator also recruits instructors to teach classes in their areas of expertise.
Get Involved
The Master Naturalist Program welcomes the support of organizations and individuals in expanding the training and volunteer opportunities throughout the state. The formation of the program, and the plans for future expansion, are described here.
A detailed description of the Master Naturalist Program is given in the Policies and Guidelines.
ShareThisFor more information, contact Rondalyn Reeser, Master Naturalist Program Assistant; 410-531-0534
Last updated: 05/3/2012
updated March 15, 2012
Volunteer Trainings in the Piedmont Region
Catoctin Creek & Fountain Rock Nature Centers*September 10 - December 10, 2012
Oregon Ridge Nature Center & Robert E. Lee Park:*September 10 - October 29, 2012
Audubon Naturalist Society:
*October 2 - November 13, 2012
Volunteer Trainings in the Coastal Plain Region
Adkins Arboretum:
*October 4, 2012 - July 11, 2013 (1st Thursday of the month except for holidays)
