Are you passionate about environmental conservation and eager to contribute to the well-being of your community? The DC Master Naturalist program provides a unique opportunity for residents of the District of Columbia to immerse themselves in urban environmental education and conservation efforts. By becoming a Certified Master Naturalist, you can actively engage in a variety of environmental projects, leaving a positive impact on the local ecosystem.

The course will run for 10 weeks from early March 2024 – May 2024. There are 10 classes in the course and these will be held in-person on the University of the District of Columbia (UDC) Van Ness Campus Wednesdays from 6:00 – 9:00 pm. UDC will announce the exact dates for each session once candidates are accepted to make sure that the dates work for participants before they confirm participation.

The goal of the DC Master Naturalist program is to train volunteers in urban environmental education and conservation. Participants who graduate from the program become Certified Master Naturalists and volunteer in their communities, supporting a wide range of environmental conservation projects and activities across the District of Columbia.

Spaces are limited. Applicants must be over 18 years of age and be residents of the District. Applicants must also understand the program’s mission and an explicit desire to volunteer in their community. Applications will be screened to see if candidates meet these requirements.

Programming and classes are diverse, and feature instruction from Casey Trees very own Youth Programs Forester, Sam Nelson. To apply for the Spring 2024 Basic Training, complete this form and submit it by February 14th.

If you have any questions, feel free to email DC Master Naturalist Coordinator and Project Specialist in Urban Ecology Kelly Russo Petrick – kelly.russopetrick@udc.edu or text/call her at 202-909-8629.

Thank you for your interest in the DC Master Naturalist program!

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