written by Debbie Roos, Agriculture - Sustainable / Organic Production Agent in Chatham County

The Master Naturalist Volunteer program prepares volunteers to lead stewardship, education, outreach, and citizen science projects with leading environmental organizations in the Triangle. The Master Naturalist Volunteer program is conducted by North Carolina Cooperative Extension.

Classes, are offered monthly on Saturdays from 9:00 a.m.-noon. Some classes include field components. You can view the 2025 class schedule for an idea of what the 2026 schedule will look like. The 2026 classes will be similar to those offered in 2025. Registration fee for the program is $125.

In addition to the monthly classes, participants complete an Impact Project with one of our Partner Organizations.

We typically receive many more applications than we have seats available, so please follow the application process in order to receive full consideration.

• Reside in Chatham, Durham, Orange, or Wake County, NC.
• Participate in one Information Session conducted via Zoom. Upon completing the session, you will be emailed a link to the application form.
• Submit your completed application by September 22, 2025.

July 11, 2025 at 10:00 a.m.

July 21, 2025 at 1:30 p.m.

August 13, 2025 at 6:30 p.m.

September 6, 2025 at 10:00 a.m.

For more information, visit the Master Naturalist Volunteer website.