Become a Virginia Master Naturalist by Joining the Eastern Shore Chapter
The Virginia Master Naturalist volunteer program is designed to qualify informed individuals to carry out the various activities and projects that are central to our mission. Once qualified, you’ll be hands-on. You might monitor and maintain natural areas, collect data, work alongside researchers, engage in outreach, or in an educator role, for a few examples.
Virginia Master Naturalists are on the front lines of science-based environmental activity, putting in effort where it matters to protect and promote the natural resources of the Eastern Shore of Virginia.
We anticipate offering the course on 10 consecutive Thursdays beginning September 4, 2025.
The online application will be available here on May 1st.
Please check this page regularly for the latest information. See a blank application here.
Learn, contribute, and have fun helping Eastern Shore communities conserve natural resources and public lands through education, science, and stewardship.
MISSION: Virginia Master Naturalists are volunteer educators, citizen scientists, and stewards helping Virginia conserve and manage natural resources and public lands.
- The Eastern Shore Chapter sponsors and supports dozens of projects, providing a wide range of volunteer service opportunities to its members throughout Accomack and Northampton counties.
- Members work with various groups in diverse settings such as wildlife refuges, parks, and nature preserves to carry out the VMN mission on the Eastern Shore.
MEMBERSHIP REQUIREMENTS: You must complete the Eastern Shore Chapter Basic Training Course to become a Chapter member. All Chapter members are expected to perform volunteer service on the Eastern Shore consistent with the Chapter’s mission. There is no minimum requirement for the number of hours you volunteer. There is something for everyone!
BASIC TRAINING COURSE (BTC): The ESMN BTC covers the background knowledge and skills to prepare you for your VMN volunteer service. This includes a wide range of topics such as botany, ecology, and mammalogy, with an emphasis on the nature and natural resources of the Eastern Shore. ‘
TYPICAL TIMELINE
- May 1 – Online application available.
- July 1 – Applicants notified.
- August 1 – Course fee submission deadline.
- September 4 – November 6: Course term (all day sessions each Thursday).
FOR MORE INFORMATION: If you have questions please contact us.
You may wish to visit the Virginia Master Naturalist’s “Become a Master Naturalist” for additional details. Go ahead, we’ll be here when you come back!
