Applications for the training class of 2026 is closed. Next training class will be fall of 2027.
While you wait, join us at our volunteer projects and/or our monthly chapter meetings! See calendar on our front page by following this link. Our monthly meetings are on the 3rd Monday of each month in the Rose Room of the Fort Worth Botanic Garden. Social time 6:30-7pm, presentation 7-8 pm.
Learn. Volunteer. Repeat.
How do I become a certified Master Naturalist?
- Submit the application between June 1- June 20th, 2026.
- Pay mandatory fee of $175 AFTER accepted into the program.
- Complete the training program: 6 of the 7 classes and 4 of the 5 field trips.
- Obtain a minimum of 8 hours of approved advanced training and complete a minimum of 40 hours of chapter-approved volunteer service within the same calendar year.
The next class will start on Tuesday, August 11, 2026 and run through October 24, 2026. See training schedule below.
Preference will be given to applicants who express a commitment to stewardship of our natural resources, a willingness and availability to contribute time to volunteer service, a desire to complete the coursework, homework, and field trips, and those already volunteering.
This is a selective process and applicants will be notified of acceptance status by the end of June.
2026 Class Training Schedule
All classes will be held at the Fort Worth Zoo (1989 Colonial Pkwy, Fort Worth, TX 76110) in the Zoo School/Educational Building. Look for Zoo School signs. Zoo School is on the West side of the parking lot, North of the Zoo entrance. Under the covered structure, go up the ramp and into the Zoo School Building. Highlighted items in green are field trips, location details will be provided during class. Items in yellow are optional.
Attendance at 6 of the 7 classes and 4 of the 5 field trips is required.
CTMN Commitment
- Initial Training – Attendance at 6 of the 7 classes and 4 or the 5 field trips is required. Schedule will be posted before applications are open.
- 40 Volunteer Hours annually
- 8 hours of Advanced Training annually
Before applying, please consider whether you are able to commit to training and volunteering each year, as spots in the training classes are limited.
Once Accepted
If you are accepted, you will receive instructions to create a profile through the online Texas Parks and Wildlife Volunteer Management System. You will submit a background check and agree to the media waiver, confidentiality waiver, and Alternate Workforce waiver (liability release).
Cost: The fee to participate in training is $175. Included is the textbook and membership dues for the next calendar year. A few partial scholarships are available.
CTMN Volunteer Pledge
“I understand that in exchange for the training made possible through the Cross Timbers Chapter of the Texas Master Naturalist program, I will volunteer at least 40 hours of my time toward approved projects in Tarrant and Parker counties and complete 8 hours of advanced training within one calendar year.
I understand that I will become a Certified Texas Master Naturalist when I complete both the training and volunteer work and meet other requirements determined by CTMN.
I understand that to maintain an active status, I must complete 40 hours of volunteer service and 8 hours of advanced training each calendar year thereafter and meet other requirements determined by CTMN.”
[This program is intended to serve people regardless of socioeconomic level, race, color, sex, religion, disability, or national origin. CTMN seeks to provide reasonable accommodations for all persons with disabilities. Please advise CTMN of any auxiliary aid or service that you require, by emailing [email protected].]
Questions? Ask [email protected]
Presentation MBL