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Basic Training

Group of Basic Training students in a field listening to a botany professor

Photo: S. Oglesby

An important type of outreach for Virginia Master Naturalists is recruiting others and training them to become naturalists. We are always on the lookout for individuals who want to take their love of nature to the next level, so that with increasing knowledge and the support of a like-minded team, they can begin working within the community to promote a healthy ecosystem. Each local chapter is responsible for developing a robust educational program called Basic Training. Although the curriculum changes slightly from time to time, the training--in class, online, and in the field--typically covers plants, insects, mammals, fish, birds, aquatic systems, forest ecosystems, geology, soils, habitat gardening, nature interpretation for an audience, and more. It's a lot to cover! And of course, it's impossible to pack as much as we would like in a few months of study. That's why the requirements of being a Master Naturalist include a certain number of continuing education hours each year. Check out the "Join Us" page to learn more about how to become a Virginia Master Naturalist. Also check out a few highlights from Basic Training below.

Group of Basic Training students listening to a botany professor talk about a tree

Photo: R. Reilly

Professor John Hayden of the University of Richmond takes trainees on a plant ID walk at the Drexel-Morel Center.

Group of Basic Training students and a geology professor examining a large rock outcrop at a park

Photo: ?

​Dr. Brent Owens, retired geology professor at William & Mary, explains the geological history of our area on a field trip to Hidden Rock Park in Goochland.

Class of Basic Training students sitting at tables and watching a live presentation

Photo: R. Reilly

Lectures may be given online or in person at Grace Episcopal Church in Goochland.

Basic Training students with binoculars on an ornithology walk

Photo: S. Reilly

Fieldtrips are an important part of Basic Training. Here trainees learn the basics of ornithology and how to identify birds in the field.

Master Naturalist with binoculars facing the camera

Photo: S. Reilly

Group of Basic Training students at a field lesson on water quality testing and stream monitoring

Photo: S. Shepherd

Field lessons in water quality testing and benthic macroinvertebrate sampling are conducted at Big Lickinghole Creek in Leakes Mill Park.

20231021 [stephen shephed] jrmn bt field

Photo: S. Shepherd

Basic Training students at a stream watching an ichthyologist identify fish

Photo: S. Reilly

Close up of the Field Guide to Freshwater Fishes of Virginia

Photo: S. Reilly

Trainees learn about common freshwater fish at a local stream.

Table with candles and refreshments for Basic Training graduation event

Photo: R. Reilly

There is cause to celebrate with a party at the end of Basic Training in December. Not only have the trainees graduated, but they have also made a new set of friends!

The Virginia Master Naturalist program is open to all, regardless of age, color, disability, gender, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, political affiliation, race, religion, sexual orientation, genetic information, veteran status, or any other basis protected by law. An equal opportunity/affirmative action employer.

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