Norristown Farm Park on Upper Farm Road in Norristown has opened registration for a springtime course that will instruct participants in the science and conservation details of Master Naturalist training.

The 50-hour course stretches from Apr. 5 to June 21, meeting weekly on Wednesday evenings and four Saturdays at the park.

Following the classroom study, 30 hours of service and eight hours’ continuing education are required for official certification.

The Pa. Master Naturalist program is dedicated to training knowledgeable volunteers committed to protecting the state’s natural resources with partnering organizations.

Volunteers perform services that include:

• Habitat restoration
• Native planting projects
• Educational nature walks
• Water quality monitoring

The Norristown setting is important, as volunteers must be trained in the specific eco-region in which they will be performing service. Other than in Philadelphia, the Norristown sessions are the only ones in the region.

With the training and certification processes completed, volunteers have contributed over 96,000 hours of conservation service since 2010.

The Master Naturalist training classwork cost is $400 per person. Registration is required. The deadline to register is February 1, 2023. Space is limited, and scholarships are available. COVID safety protocols will be followed, and proof of vaccination will be required.

Additional information and the program’s application are online at the Pa. Master Naturalist site.

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This 2021 video provides an in-depth look at the Pa. Master Naturalist training program.