About the Master Naturalist program

The Texas Master Naturalist program is designed to develop a corps of well-informed volunteers who provide education, outreach, and service dedicated to the beneficial management of natural resources and natural areas within their communities for the State of Texas. Texas Parks and Wildlife Department and Texas A&M AgriLife Extension serve as sponsors for the program.

To become a certified Master Naturalist, a trainee must complete the following:

* Complete an organized training program sponsored by a Master Naturalist chapter involving a minimum of 40 hours of instruction, including both classroom and field experiences.
* Obtain a minimum of 8 hours of approved advanced training.
* Complete a minimum of 40 hours of chapter-approved volunteer service.

To retain certification in each subsequent year, members must complete a minimum of 8 hours of advanced training and provide a minimum of 40 hours of volunteer service in approved project activities.