Join a Master Naturalist Program

Join a Master Naturalist program

If you’re curious about the natural world and would enjoy learning and sharing information with others, consider joining your local Master Naturalist program.

Master Naturalists learn about local flora and fauna and use their knowledge to serve their communities through volunteer projects. DC, Virginia, and Maryland have active programs. Classes are typically offered once or twice a year and include an application process.

DC Master Naturalists

DC Master Naturalists train in the spring through the University of the District of Columbia and serve all over the city. Capital Nature supports DC Master Naturalists (DCMNs) through monthly programs and on-site education in collaboration with UDC. Some DCMN programs are open to the general public as are many volunteer activities. 2024 applications are due on February 14th.

Reach out to staff coordinator Kelly Russo-Petrick at kelly.russopetrick@udc.edu for more information.

Maryland Master Naturalists are coordinated through University of Maryland’s Extension service. Washington area Maryland Master Naturalists can train at a number of host sites in the Piedmont and the Coastal Plain regions, and volunteer through their host organizations:

Montgomery Parks

Most training takes place at Locust Grove Nature Center, March through May.

Host Site Contact: Jackie Raiford, jacqueline.raiford@montgomeryparks.org

Nature Forward

Nature Forward (formerly Audubon Naturalist Society), Chevy Chase, MD. Most training takes place at Woodend Sanctuary October through May.

Host Site Contact: Peihan Orestes, Volunteer Coordinator, peihan.orestes@natureforward.org

Anacostia Watershed Society

Anacostia Watershed Society (AWS), Bladensburg, MD - Most training takes place at AWS headquarters and field locations September through August. Information on the program can be found on the AWS website.

Host Site Contact: Jamie Craven, jcraven@anacostiaws.org

Application to the Maryland Master Naturalist Program is made through individual Host Sites.

For more general information about Maryland’s program, contact Joy Rafey at jrafey@umd.edu or 410-531-0534.

Arlington Regional Master Naturalists

Arlington Regional Master Naturalists (ARMNs) train through the Virginia Cooperative Extension service and a very active volunteer membership. Classes are held in fall and spring and include an application process. Arlington Regional Master Naturalists study and serve in Arlington, Alexandria, and Falls Church. ARMN offers many education and service opportunities open to the general public. Applications for the spring 2024 program are due on January 22nd.

For more information see the ARMN website and application details.

Fairfax Master Naturalists

Fairfax Master Naturalists (FMNs) train through Virginia Cooperative Extension service and a very active volunteer membership. Classes are held in fall and spring and include an application process. Fairfax Master Naturalists study and serve throughout Fairfax County. FMN offers many education and service opportunities open to the general public.

For more information and to sign up for FMN monthly announcements, visit their website, and contact vmnfairfax@gmail.com.

Loudoun County (Banshee Reeks) Master Naturalists

The Banshee Reeks Chapter of Virginia Master Naturalists was the first to be chartered in the Commonwealth of Virginia. Banshee Reeks Master Naturalists (BRMNs) train in the fall at the Banshee Reeks Nature Preserve, and serve throughout Loudoun County. Applications for the September 2024 class are due on March 1st. Many education and service are opportunities open to the general public.

For more information visit their website, and contact vmnbansheereeks@gmail.com.