Discover the wonders of nature through West Virginia’s Master Naturalist Program
Have you ever wished you knew more about the natural world around you? Maybe you’re the person who stops to admire a wildflower on a hike, listens to birds sing with curiosity or wonders what kind of salamander just scurried across the trail. If you’ve ever longed to learn more and share that knowledge with others, West Virginia’s Master Naturalist Program might be the perfect next step on your nature journey.
What is the West Virginia Master Naturalist Program?
The West Virginia Master Naturalist Program is a statewide volunteer training program that combines formal instruction with hands-on learning. Whether you’re a lifelong learner, a retired professional or just getting started in the outdoors, this welcoming and accessible program provides an in-depth experience to help you better understand, interpret and protect West Virginia’s incredible natural resources and then share that knowledge with others through volunteer service.
“Becoming a Master Naturalist is an educational opportunity, but it’s also an opportunity to volunteer,” said Michelle Fonda. “It’s a great way to get involved with wildlife and natural resource conservation in your community.”
The Master Naturalist Program was launched in 2003 with a mission to educate and inspire individuals to be responsible stewards of the environment and build a network of skilled volunteers who support environmental research, education and outreach. The program is a partnership between the WVDNR’s Wildlife Diversity Program and Parks and Recreation Section, West Virginia University Cooperative Extension Service and Canaan Valley Institute.
How to Become a Certified Master Naturalist
Becoming a Master Naturalist is a commitment, but one that’s both manageable and deeply rewarding. The program is open to anyone, regardless of their education and professional background.
“We get lots of people with a variety of skill sets and backgrounds, but they are all united in joining the program because they have an interest in nature,” said Fonda. “The program really benefits from that diversity and camaraderie.”
To become certified, you must complete 62 hours of formal class and field instruction and 30 hours of approved volunteer service. Most people take about two years to meet those requirements, but participants have up to four years to complete the certification process. Classes are offered through local chapters and cover topics like amphibians, insects, wildflowers, bird identification and interpretation skills. A few courses are also offered during the annual Master Naturalist conference, a weekend full of outdoor learning and camaraderie.
To maintain active status, certified Master Naturalists must complete eight hours of advanced education and 16 hours of volunteer service each year.
“If you can spare some weekends throughout the year, you’ll be able to make it happen,” said Fonda.
Already have relevant experience or training from workshops, college courses or other nature-related programs? Contact your local Master Naturalist chapter to see if your experience counts toward certification.
Join a Master Naturalist Chapter Near You
Learning is better when it’s done in community. That’s why the Master Naturalist Program is organized around local chapters across West Virginia:
- Canaan Valley Chapter – Tucker County
- Greenbrier River Chapter – Greenbrier County
- Kanawha Valley Chapter – Charleston
- Mid-Ohio Valley Chapter – Parkersburg
- Monongahela Chapter – Morgantown
- New River Gorge Chapter – Fayetteville
- Potomac Valley Chapter – Shepherdstown
- Tygart Valley Chapter – Elkins
From stream monitoring and trail work to leading hikes and educating youth, each chapter offers meaningful ways to give back to the community while deepening your connection to West Virginia’s wild and wonderful places.
One benefit of joining a local chapter is participating in the annual Master Naturalist Conference each summer. This year’s conference will take place at Blackwater Falls State Park and will include workshops, field excursions and networking opportunities.
Start Your Journey to Become a Master Naturalist!
Whether you’re curious about nature or looking for a new way to give back, the West Virginia Master Naturalist Program offers plenty of opportunities to discover the outdoors and become part of a knowledgeable and passionate community. Learn more about the program and upcoming classes at mnofwv.org