Virginia Master Naturalists Course Information for Applicants

Holston Rivers Chapter – Spring 2023

You can apply for the class online! Just use this link: http://bttr.im/5cfc8 to set up a new account in our volunteer management system. This year’s course will be a hybrid of online classes, recorded videos, and in-person events in the field.

Thank you for your interest in becoming a Virginia Master Naturalist (VMN) with the Holston Rivers Chapter. The VMN training class prepares you to become a Certified Virginia Master Naturalist volunteer. The VMN Program is a statewide corps of volunteers providing education, outreach, and service dedicated to the beneficial management of natural resources and natural areas within their communities.

Please note: VMN is a volunteer training and service-based program. If you do not intend to be an active volunteer and help to support our local natural resources through your volunteer service, then this class and organization may not be for you.

The basic training course covers the background knowledge and skills to prepare you for service as a VMN volunteer. This includes a wide range of topics in many areas relating to the natural sciences. Initial certification, as well as annual recertification, requires 8 hours of approved continuing education and 40 hours of approved volunteer service within a year following completion of your basic training course. You can complete your volunteer service in any of four key areas: citizen science, stewardship, education and outreach, and chapter administration.

Basic Training Course details are provided below:

• We strive to keep safety precautions in place and follow the guidance of our state organization and CDC.
• Classes meet virtually (online) through the Zoom platform and in person.  Field trips are at locations where we will be doing service hours.
• Attendance is mandatory for certification, but allowances can sometimes be made to make up a class. These are to be made up within 12 months of completion of basic training in one of the following ways: during the next training cycle if yearly, with another VMN chapter, or by making special arrangements with approval from the Basic Training Committee Chair.
• It is highly recommended that trainees have an email address and internet access since program communications and volunteer hour reporting are usually done in this manner.
• Program is targeted toward adults, 18 or older. Youth, age 14-17, may apply under specific conditions.
• Class size is limited to approximately 24 trainees.
• Course fee of $65 covers basic training, course materials, and current year membership dues. A limited number of need-based scholarships are available. To request a scholarship, attach a letter to your application stating your need and the portion of the course fee that you can pay.
• Applications are now electronic! All you need to do is use this link to set up an account in our volunteer management system. We’ll be in touch soon with more details.

Individuals with disabilities desiring accommodations in the application process should notify the Chapter Advisor, Tanya Hall at 276-781-7413 or (TDD number 1-800-828-1120) by the application deadline.

All applicants will be notified by email of their selection status.

Questions? Send an email to Monica Hoel