Interested in learning more about the natural world around you – and putting that knowledge to work in your community? The RMN training prepares volunteers to understand, appreciate and help protect the natural resources of our local Piedmont and Blue Ridge regions. The 15-week program combines classroom learning, field experiences, and a community of people who share a curiosity about nature and a commitment to volunteering.
Is the RMN training class for YOU?
Consider the following questions.
- Are you curious about nature? Do you want to spend more time outdoors?
- Do you want to support and restore a healthy natural environment and the native plants and animals of your local community?
- Are you interested in being a part of a local team and working with others who care about natural resources?
- Can you commit to the training, which runs from February to May and includes a three-hour class each week for 15 weeks, plus at least 15 hours in the field? Learn more about the class schedule
- Can you commit to volunteering (ideally 40 hours/year) once the training is complete?
If you answered yes to most of the above, RMN training could be a great fit for you. You don’t need a background in science or any previous training in nature and environment-related areas. What matters most is your curiosity, enthusiasm for learning, and willingness to volunteer.
On the Other Hand
If you are mainly interested in the class, but not in volunteering, or if you are looking for a credential rather than an opportunity to contribute, then this training is not designed for you.
The Training Class
RMN’s training prepares an active corps of volunteers to strengthen and support nature in our area.
- Our curriculum follows the guidelines of Virginia Master Naturalists in 15 weeks of class once a week plus at least 15 hours of amazing field trips, all taught by Virginia based specialists in various fields of nature study.
- Our studies focus on our local Blue Ridge and Piedmont regions.
- Topics covered will give you a foundation in aquatics, birding, botany, climate, ecology, entomology, forestry, geology, herpetology, ichthyology, mammals, soils, and wetlands.
- You’ll have the chance to develop skills in citizen science, field observation, identifying animals, plants and natural phenomena, and interpreting nature for children and adults.
For a quick overview of what the RMN program offers and how the certification process works, please look at this slideshow: Introducing the RMN.
How to Become a Master Naturalist – from Training to Certification
- Take the RMN Training Class.
- Apply here by January 5: Better Impact RMN Application
- Have three people provide recommendations regarding your commitment and past experience as a volunteer. Download the Recommendation Form for them to email to rivannamn@gmail.com by January 5. Learn more about application and selection process
- To graduate:
- Attend at least 13 of 15 classes (and do makeup homework)
- Attend at least 5 of the 12+ amazing field trips
- Complete the written exam (open book, take home)
- Complete and record 3 volunteer hours during the training.
- To become a Certified RMN:
- Record 40 hours of volunteer work each year from our approved projects list
- Record 8 hours of related continuing education annually.
- Certification is recommended but not required. Members who are not active or record fewer than 40 hours/year are always a valued part of the chapter and may continue to work towards certification.
About Volunteer Service
Chapter members have many opportunities to apply their skills and knowledge, from citizen science to stewardship to environmental education to chapter administration. We work with many local organizations, including Charlottesville Area Tree Stewards, James River Association, Rivanna Conservation Alliance, PRISM, Wild Virginia, The Nature Conservancy, as well as regional, state and national parks, and government agencies.
Volunteer hours can be performed on your own, as in some citizen science activities, but more commonly involve working together with others who love and enjoy nature. In addition, all the activities of the chapter (training, outreach, administration) are staffed by volunteers, so there are endless ways to contribute. You may also be able to create your own project in consultation with the Volunteer Projects committee.
RMN-approved volunteer opportunities are listed on Better Impact, on our website, and shared by email.