Are you ready to become a Master Naturalist?
The application period for the Spring 2026 Arlington Regional Master Naturalists’ Volunteer Basic Training Course has closed. Please check back here for information on the Fall 2026 class, or contact us if you’d like to be placed on an interest list.
The application process requires:
- A completed online application
- Participation in an Interview and Information Session
Applicants commit to completing the Basic Training Class, as well as 40 hours of volunteer service and 8 hours of continuing education annually. Volunteers who complete all three become Certified Master Naturalists. The program is open to all who will be at least 18 years of age on the first day of class. ARMN members volunteer primarily in Arlington, Alexandria and Falls Church but can volunteer on an ARMN approved project anywhere in Virginia.
The ARMN 14-week Basic Training Course provides the knowledge and skills that will enable you to become an active volunteer and a vital part of the ARMN community. Class sessions are held on Tuesday evenings via Zoom, with an additional in-person class to introduce trainees and the Basic Training Committee. Four all-day field trips on Saturdays are also an integral part of the classes.
The Volunteer Basic Training course is intensive and requires a significant time commitment. Trainees must attend all classes and field trips. Field trips involve walking on woodland trails and may include some hills and uneven surfaces. Alternate field training can be arranged to accommodate individuals with disabilities.
The ARMN Basic Training Class covers many subjects, including:
- The significance of naturalists and natural history
- The geography of Virginia and its distinctive zones
- Basic ecology
- Basic concepts of geology and soils
- Principles of weather and climate
- Native plants and their importance to our ecosystem
- Identification of non-native invasive plants and understanding problems they create
- Identification of local trees
- The role of insects, reptiles, amphibians and mammals in our local environment
- Citizen Science and research skills
- Basic education and interpretation skills that support sharing knowledge with others
How to Apply
- Participate in one of the required Interview and Information Sessions offered for prospective trainees.
- Complete the on-line application form when it becomes available in the Arlington Regional Master Naturalist Better Impact system. Follow instructions to create a user name to log-in. Space is limited and there is often a waiting list – please be sure to submit a complete and thorough application by the deadline. The application form requests email addresses for references. Provide 3 non-family member references who can speak to your commitment to community service and the natural environment. After entering all requested data in the application form, click “Submit.” You will receive an email that confirms receipt of your application.
- Course fee of $200 is due after notification of acceptance into the program. Please indicate on your application if you would like to be considered for a scholarship.
If you are a person with a disability and desire any assistive devices, services or other accommodations to participate in this activity, please contact Joyce Peng Tan at: Joycetan24@vt.edu (703-228-7488) Monday through Friday from 8 am to 4pm to discuss accommodations.