Master Naturalist Certification Class

continue your lifelong learning by becoming a master naturalist!

The Georgia Master Naturalist program, sponsored by The University of Georgia’s Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources, is a hands-on environmental education program that explores habitats and ecosystems in Georgia and human impacts on these environments.

This program is a combination of lectures and outside hands-on learning through field studies on the property of the Nature Center and some offsite field experiences. Relevant resource materials are given. This program can also provide SDUís for teachers and others. An informed person can help make changes in their lives as well as their community and safeguard the environment. After completing this fun and interactive program, the Georgia Master Naturalist graduates are encouraged to share their knowledge with their communities by volunteering or working in local schools, scout programs, or nature centers.

The monthly sessions may explore the following areas total of over 50 hours

>> Nature Journaling

>> Introduction to Ecology

>> Watershed & Canoe study of the Natural History on the Chattahoochee River

>> Wetland Ecology

>> Eco regions of Georgia (The Natural Communities of Georgia)

>> Lichens

>> Mushrooms/Fungi

>> Mammals of Georgia

>> Minerals, Rocks and overall Geology of the State of Georgia

>> Basic Birding techniques and Birds of Prey

>> Insects

>> Tree ID & Forest Lore

>> Native Wildflowers and Pollinators

>> Snakes of Georgia

>> Amphibians of Georgia

Second Wednesday of the month
September 11, 2024 – May 14, 2025 | 9AM – 4PM

Registration will open July 1

Program includes

The Natural Communities of Georgia

by Leslie Edwards, Jonathan Ambrose, and L. Katherine Kirkman | Photographs by Hugh and Carol Nourse A landmark reference to the ecological diversity of the state

Master Naturalist Certificate

Georgia Master Naturalist program sponsored by The University of Georgia

Session handouts provided by the speakers

Hand Lens and Lanyard

Guided Canoe Trip on the Chattahoochee River

Snacks, coffee, and tea will be available (Please bring your own beverage container and lunch)

Program prices

Pre-registration is required

$575 non-members

$525 members

Refund & Cancellation Policy

Cancellations must be received in writing (via email) at least 15 days prior to your program date in order to receive a full refund. We are unable to refund cancellations that are received less than 15 days prior to your program date. We cannot accommodate late arrivals – if you miss an active program or do not attend, we are unable to refund your payment.

While every attempt is made to conduct programs, CNC may deem it necessary to cancel the program due to weather, Nature Center closures, or any conditions that would compromise the program’s quality or put persons at risk. If CNC cancels a program, you will be notified and will receive a full refund. All refunds will be returned to the original form of purchase.

perfect for beginners

This program included a very interesting mix of topics which gave a beginner like me a broad look at Georgia from a Naturalist’s perspective.

Terrific classes

All of the classes were terrific and the speakers excellent. I especially like the order of the topics. They seemed to build on each other and fall in the right seasons. I still have lots of reading to finish.

great variety of speakers

I thought the program was awesome. I loved all the different speakers and exposure to different aspects of nature.

better understanding of my place in the ecosystem

The Master Naturalist program has given me a broader sense of my place in our ecosystem as well as the myriad ways we impact and are impacted by the natural world around us. I in no way feel that I have mastered any of the material but I do feel much better prepared to direct friends, family and interested parties to the organizations and people who can help address local issues and needs. I also feel more plugged in, more aware of the resources available to further my learning, address local environmental needs/concerns/issues. It has really whetted my appetite for more!

inspiring classes and instructors

I enjoyed learning from the excellent instructors who are experts in their respective fields. The class has really inspired me to increase my knowledge of nature and the great outdoors!

Passionate speakers

Regardless of subject, the speakers all had one thing in common, a passion for what they study.

enhanced my interest in environmentalism

I took the program to enhance my basic understanding of Biology, Botany, Geology, Ornithology and Entomology. These areas are all of interest to me and the program was very valuable to enhancing my understanding. As a result I am more interested in environmentalism, ecology and naturalism. I intend to pursue more knowledge in these areas and hope to provide volunteer work at the Chattahoochee Nature Center or other venues.

engaging hands-on approach

Thank you for opening up your personal and professional rolodex to enhance my insight into nature. I have always loved being in nature and this course was inspiring and engaging! The presenters gave a great overview of their subjects, along with a wonderful balance of informative detailed information and myth busters. I personally enjoyed the “hands-on approach” of being out in nature. Again, a well-balanced format of classroom discussion and then visual application.

enjoyable canoe trip

The canoe trip was a very enjoyable outing, as well as a good opportunity to use some of our learning from all the classes leading up to that day.