UPDATE AUGUST 1, 2024: The 2024 training program has concluded. Interns will receive certification upon completing their first 40 hours of volunteer service.
Due to the high demands of this program and limited resources, we do not anticipate offering the training program again until the year 2026.
What is the Maryland Master Naturalist Program?
The Maryland Master Naturalist program is a statewide certification for volunteers working in the conservation or interpretation of natural resources. While the program standards are maintained by the University of Maryland’s Extension Office, organizations throughout Maryland act as “host sites” to provide the required training for certification.
In Montgomery Parks, certified Master Naturalists lead educational programs for the public, help maintain wildlife habitat in our parks, and even collect data in the field for several ongoing studies.
Application Requirements
- Be at least 18 years old.
- Group Interview
- Solid communication skills, comfortable reading and speaking in English. Fluency in other languages is strongly welcomed.
- Pass a background check.
- Provide character references.
- Demonstrate a passion for learning about our natural resources and a long-term commitment to volunteering.
- The University of Maryland’s Extension Office collects at $250 fee from each accepted applicant.
Class Fee
The University of Maryland’s Extension Office collects at $250 fee from each accepted applicant.
Certification Requirements
- Attend 7 out of 8 in-person training days, scheduled every Friday from 9am to 3:30pm, March 22 to May 10.
- Complete all 12 hours of pre-recorded presentations (self-paced, online).
- Complete weekly class assignments and readings.
- Pass the final exam.
- Volunteer 40 hours of service in contribution to a group project.
Ongoing Commitment
Once certified, Maryland Master Naturalists have an annual requirement to volunteer at least 40 hours of service and attend at least 8 hours of additional training every year to maintain their certification.
Can I audit the classes?
Each year, we receive dozens of inquiries from people who are interested in taking some or all the classes, but who do not have the time or ability to fulfill the rigorous certification requirements or ongoing volunteer commitment. Unfortunately, the University of Maryland Extension Office does not permit the auditing of the program. However, Montgomery Parks is excited to announce a new series of adult learning classes taking place this spring. “Flora and Fauna of Montgomery County” offers the same academic focus of the Maryland Master Naturalist program for the five most popular topics. These online classes will be offered once monthly on Wednesday evenings and can be registered for as a series or a la carte to suit your interests. See additional information below.
Which program is right for me?
| Program Details | Maryland Master Naturalist Certification Program | Flora and Fauna of Montgomery County Adult Learning Series |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | To provide in-depth training for Montgomery Parks’ volunteers.
This program is designed to increase not only your knowledge of local flora and fauna, but your effectiveness as a volunteer by introducing you to our diverse facilities, programs, and staff. | To provide quality classes on the County’s diverse plant and animal life, and to give participants an introduction to taxonomy, life history, field identification, and conservation. |
| Topics | All topics in the Flora & Fauna Class PLUS
|
|
| Format | In-person meetings on Fridays from 9am to 3:30pm from March 22 to May 10.
12 hours of pre-recorded presentations to review independently. Weekly class assignments and readings. | Online meetings once per month.
Participants may sign up for the entire series or register for their favorite topics a la carte. Participants that complete the entire series will be invited to a special in-person field event in August. |
| Value | Quality, scientifically focused classes led by expert Parks’ staff.
Highly local perspective, from the best spots to see wildlife to the most important conservation issues of our County. Earn a statewide certification. Become a part of a passionate community of volunteers. | Quality, scientifically focused classes led by expert Parks’ staff.
Highly local perspective, from the best spots to see wildlife to the most important conservation issues of our County. |
| Requirements |
|
|
| Commitments |
| None |
| Certification | Yes | No |
| Class Size | 15 participants | Unlimited |
| Cost | $250 fee paid directly to the University of Maryland’s Extension Office. | $30 per class or $120 for the 5-class bundle. |
| Register | **NOT ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS | Learn more about Flora and Fauna Adult Learning |
Montgomery Parks’ Program & Schedule
Montgomery Parks is a unique host site for the Maryland Master Naturalist program as we base our volunteer opportunities not just out of one facility but at sites county-wide. Each year, our certified Master Naturalists volunteer at all five nature centers, Brookside Gardens, and the mobile Nature on Wheels vehicle, as well as at numerous cultural sites and in community science programs. To introduce participants to our diverse programming, staff, and facilities, our class meeting location rotates weekly so that we may explore all Montgomery Parks’ has to offer.
Applications
We anticipate opening applications in late 2025 for the 2026 training program.
This is a highly competitive program, so apply early. Class size is limited to 15 participants.
Preference will be given to current, active Montgomery Parks volunteers with a referral from a staff member or already certified Master Naturalist. However, we may consider applicants who are not yet volunteers if they demonstrate an interest in volunteering with Parks long-term.
After submitting your application, please allow up to two weeks for a response from a Program Facilitator. Once your application has been reviewed you will either be invited to a group interview date or placed on a waiting list.
Attending a group interview is required. Applicants may select from two choices of dates.