VMN Basic Training

Our Mission

The Virginia Master Naturalist Program is a statewide corps of volunteers providing education, outreach, and service dedicated to the beneficial management of natural resources and natural areas within their communities. Interested Virginians become Master Naturalists through training and volunteer service.

HOW TO USE THIS SITE

This site is designed for use by individuals who are participating in the basic training course offered from the Pocahontas Chapter, Virginia Master Naturalists. Documents and information shared on this site are provided for educational purposes and may not be duplicated or distributed physically or electronically without permission from the author. For more information, email pocahontasvmn@gmail.com

1. For each class, go to that week's topic page. (Found on the Schedule and under the Assignments Menu)

2. Read the required information before the lecture. Other information may be included on the page, but only the information under the red heading, Required Pre-Lecture Reading, is necessary to prepare for the upcoming class. 

3. After you have attended the class, complete the Class Evaluation for that topic found on the topic page. You will receive credit by your attendance at the class and completion of this evaluation. 

4. Each topic page contains the same headings. Red headings are what needs to be completed by the trainee, and the black headings are additional information, resources, or opportunities related to that topic. 

VMN Requirements

Besides having a passion for nature and a thirst of knowledge, becoming a Certified Virginia Master Naturalists requires three things:

1.Completion of the Basic Training Course that includes:

• Attendance of all in-person or zoom classes and completion of all self- study courses 

• Attendance at 3 of 6 in-person field trips, 1 vernal pool focused field trip, and 1 participatory science field trip. 

• Pass a final exam. 

2.Eight hours of Continuing Education courses logged into Better Impact each year *

3.Forty hours of approved volunteer work logged into Better Impact each year *

* See Better Impact for details about CE / Volunteer opportunities