Displaying items by tag: western north carolina master naturalist classes

Volunteers in the Holston Rivers Chapter of the Virginia Master Naturalists learned about freshwater mussels and other aquatic organisms at an event where they were in the water, examining the natural habitats. Monica Hoel

Become a master of your domain; courses available in ET and WNC

BLACKSBURG — Two decades after its start, the Virginia Master Naturalist program continues to empower volunteers to protect and enhance the state’s natural resources.

Launched in 2005 as part of a growing national movement, the Virginia Master Naturalist program trains residents in ecology, wildlife, and environmental stewardship. Operated by Virginia Cooperative Extension and housed in the College of Natural Resources and Environment at Virginia Tech, the program has grown to 30 chapters across the commonwealth.

“The program emerged from a national push to establish Master Naturalist initiatives in every state,” said Michelle Prysby, the program's director and senior Extension specialist. “A framework was created in 2004 by five state agencies, and Virginia Tech was selected to lead the program.”

In East Tennessee, at least two Master Naturalist training programs are available; there are also several naturalist programs in Western North Carolina.