Adkins Arboretum is honored to be the first host site for the Maryland Master Naturalist Program for the Coastal Plain. This program serves as the Arboretum’s docent training.

Individuals accepted into the Master Naturalist training course receive 48 hours of instruction, including hands-on experience outdoors. All classes are taught by experts in the subject. The curriculum includes Maryland Natural History, Flora & Fauna, Ecologic Principles, How Humans Affect the Landscape, The Science of Science, and Teaching & Interpretation.

After training, participants serve as University of Maryland Extension volunteers in their communities. At least 40 hours of approved service must be documented each year. A wide variety of volunteer work is possible, including environmental restoration projects, education and public awareness campaigns, and research in the field.

The Coastal Plain program will be offered again beginning in October 2017, in partnership with Pickering Creek Audubon Center and Phillips Wharf Environmental Center. The group meets the third Wednesday of every month, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. (the December meeting is the second Wednesday), October to July. We are currently accepting applications!

Click here and/or contact Robyn Affron, Visitor Services & Volunteer Coordinator, at raffron@adkinsarboretum.org for more information.