Maine Master Naturalist offered in the Estuary!

Maine Master Naturalist Program Offers Training

The Maine Master Naturalist Program, a newly formed organization created with the goal of developing a statewide network of volunteers to teach natural history at conservation organizations and schools, is accepting applications for its initial course.

The evening class will be held at the Chewonki Foundation in Wiscasset from September through May on the first Wednesday of each month except December, and on four Saturdays: September 10, February 4, April 21, and May 19. Instructors include Fred Cichocki of Bath, Cloe Chunn of Swanville, Susan Hayward of Lewiston, Dorcas Miller of Chelsea, and several guest lecturers. The tuition of $250 covers books, handouts, equipment, and instruction.

“MMNP has developed a 46-hour training program that will provide 20 participants with classroom instruction and field experience focusing on ecological principles; coastal, wetland and upland ecology; identification of Maine’s flora and fauna; geology; soil science; and teaching skills,” said Miller, the organization’s president. “By the end of the course, participants will have developed the skills to lead a good walk, present talks and slide shows, provide outreach to children in schools or on land trust/park property, and teach people how to identify common trees, wildflowers, birds, and other plants and animals.”

Upon enrollment, participants agree to give 40 hours of service at a conservation nonprofit (such as KELT!) or school during the year following certification, and must continue to volunteer to remain active Maine Master Naturalists. Future courses will be offered in Belfast (2012-2013), Lewiston, and other locations around the state.

The naturalist program is similar to but not affiliated with Maine’s Master Gardener Volunteers program. More than two dozen states already have Master Naturalist programs.

Master Naturalist Application form 2011