Nature Forward is pleased to partner with UMD Extension to offer Maryland Master Naturalist training. This program engages students as stewards of Maryland’s ecosystems through science-based education and volunteer service. Nature Forward’s top-notch instructors will provide:
- 52 hours of training in the ecology, flora, and fauna of Maryland
- A minimum of 8 hours of hands-on field work
- A focus on the natural history of Maryland’s Piedmont region
Master Naturalist graduates commit 40 hours of volunteer service annually to support our education programs, stewardship of Woodend habitats, and conservation outreach. To be admitted to a training course, you must be at least 18 years old, submit an application, and be interviewed. There is a $250 fee paid to UMD Extension for the cost of materials. The class is limited to 20 students and fills quickly. Click here to see the 2020 Master Naturalist Training Syllabus.
General Schedule information:
October 2023-May 2024
Virtual lectures first Tuesday of each month, 12 – 2 pm.
In-person meetings third Tuesday of each month, 12 – 3 pm.
Additional time for working on projects and field trips TBD
Please complete the application here.
Current Master Naturalists:
Track your volunteer service by logging into the Nature Forward Volunteer Information Center.