Become a Master Naturalist

Are you ready to become a Master Naturalist?  Apply Now!

The application period for the Fall 2026 Arlington Regional Master Naturalist (ARMN) program is now open. Applications must be submitted by August 11, 2026. The application process requires:

  • Participation in an Interview and Information Session (see below for schedule).
  • A completed online application (see below for link).

We encourage applicants to submit their applications as early as possible. Acceptance decisions will be made by August 18, 2026.

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 will be held on Tuesday evenings from 6:45 pm to 9:30 pm via Zoom beginning on Tuesday, September 1st. There may be an additional in-person class or two to introduce trainees and the Basic Training Committee.  Four all-day field trips on Saturdays  (dates to be finalized soon) 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  

  1. Participate in one of the required Interview and Information Sessions offered for prospective trainees. It is not necessary to complete an application before participating in the session.  Choose from:
  2. Complete the on-line application form in the Arlington Regional Master Naturalist Better Impact system, located here:  https://bttr.im/6m881. Follow instructions to create a username to log-in. Please be sure to submit a complete and thorough application by the August 11th 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. Please note that the Better Impact platform will not save a partially completed application.
    • A course fee of $200 is due after notification of acceptance into the program. Tuition assistance is available.if you would like to be considered for a scholarship.
    • Our ARMN community enthusiastically welcomes prospective new trainees who are ready to commit to a rigorous Basic Training curriculum and future volunteerism. Please note that each application cycle we receive many more applications than can be accommodated in a class. 

Virginia Master Naturalist programs and employment are open to all, regardless of age, color, disability, gender, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, political affiliation, race, religion, sexual orientation, genetic information, veteran status, or any other basis protected by law. An equal opportunity/affirmative action employer. 

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.