What is a Master NaturalisT?

The Virginia Master Naturalist Program is a statewide corps of volunteers. Virginia Master Naturalists are volunteer environmental educators, citizen scientists, and stewards helping Virginia conserve and manage its natural resources and public lands.

The Northern Neck Chapter of the Virginia Master Naturalist program is a community-based natural resources volunteer program focused on the lands and waters of the Northern Neck counties along the Rappahannock River, Potomac River and the Chesapeake Bay. Last year we provided more than 5000 volunteer hours to support the Northern Neck’s natural resources programs.

Virginia Master Naturalist Service: What We Do

Citizen Science:

Bird, butterfly, frog and toad counts. Wildlife and native plant mapping and surveys. Camera trapping. Stream and beach monitoring. Citizen scientists all over the country follow consistent protocols to collect data that supply scientists and policy-makers with the information they need to make informed management and policy decisions. These data describe the lives, habits, and responsiveness to change of plant and animal species or communities.

Stewardship:

Plant trees. Protect streams. Protect our rivers and the bay. Restore and maintain wildlife habitat, improving water quality. Build park trails and maintain them. Stewardship brings volunteers outside, gets them dirty, and shows them tangible results of their work.

Environmental Education:

If you enjoy teaching, public speaking, or working with youth, you may participate in education-related service projects, such as leading programs in a nearby state park or natural area preserve.

Chapter Administration:

Become involved in guiding/administering the activities of your local chapter.

Basic Training 2024 application window is now closed.

We generally offer a class every 18 months. Interested parties can email us to be put on the list for future contact. NNBTC2425@gmail.com