• By Rebecca Craps
• Posted Friday, December 1, 2023

Introducing the Northwest Piedmont Master Naturalist Program

We are excited to announce the launch of the Northwest Piedmont Master Naturalist Program—an immersive and educational initiative designed for individuals passionate about the environment, biodiversity, and community stewardship.

Empowering individuals passionate about nature, the Northwest Piedmont Master Naturalist Program is dedicated to fostering a community of trained volunteers and environmental professionals committed to understanding, preserving, and enriching our local ecosystems. Our mission is to provide comprehensive education in natural sciences, ecology, and environmental stewardship, equipping Master Naturalists with the knowledge and skills to actively contribute to conservation efforts. Through hands-on training and volunteer engagement, we aim to create a network of citizen scientists and environmental educators devoted to promoting environmental awareness, sustainable practices, and a profound appreciation of the diverse landscapes that define our region. Together, we strive to positively impact the well-being of our natural world and inspire others to join us in safeguarding our community's precious resources.

Program highlights:

• Two-part course from February-May and August-November of 2024
• Eight field experiences and seven online classroom sessions for a total of 60 hours
• Instruction by our region’s top naturalists
• Certification option available
• Volunteer hours or Impact Project required
• Membership in Northwest Piedmont Master Naturalist Association with opportunities for advanced training in specific natural history topics
• Limited, partial scholarships are available

Applications are now open. Visit our website at https://go.ncsu.edu/nwpiedmontmasternaturalist to learn more about the program, view the tentative schedule, and to submit your application.

Please contact Rebecca Craps at rlcraps@ncsu.edu or 336-703-2858 with questions.

N.C. Cooperative Extension prohibits discrimination and harassment regardless of age, color, disability, family and marital status, gender identity, national origin, political beliefs, race, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation and veteran status. NC State University, N.C. A&T State University, U.S. Department of Agriculture and local governments cooperating.

In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, N.C. Cooperative Extension will honor requests for reasonable accommodations made by individuals with disabilities. Please direct accommodation requests to: Kim Gressley at kgressel@ncsu.edu. Requests can be served more effectively if notice is provided at least 10 days before the event.