To join us and become a certified Texas Master Naturalist, you must complete a minimum of 60 hours of initial training on the region’s natural features and the impact that people have on nature. Training courses are held in the fall of each year and average 20 to 30 students. The course includes presentations by biologists, geologists, naturalists, and others from local, state, and federal agencies and universities, and three field trips.
You must complete a minimum of 40 hours of volunteer service and 8 hours of advanced training on approved Chapter projects, typically within a year. Advanced training enables Texas Master Naturalists to learn additional knowledge or a particular skill in order to assist with different volunteer projects. Advanced training activities in the past have involved hands-on instruction, field trips to local natural areas, and lectures with such topics as: Texas bats, Texas insects, Texas aquatic environments, wildscape development, and trail planning, among many others.
We are no longer accepting applications for our 2023 Fall training class. Thank you for your interest in the Texas Master Naturalist Elm Fork Chapter. Please check back with us next Spring to apply for our 2024 Fall training class.
Attending Monthly Chapter Meetings is a great way to learn about our members and projects!
Frequently Asked Questions for New Applicants
Is Texas Master Naturalist strictly a volunteer organization?
Yes. As a member of the Texas Master Naturalist-Elm Fork Chapter, you may not receive compensation for your volunteer service.
How do I become a member of the Texas Master Naturalist-Elm Fork Chapter (TMN-EFC)?
- Submit an application for the next training class, including the registration fee.
- Applications will be reviewed and invitations extended up to the limit of the class size.
- Attend our training program, which consists of approximately 72 hours of classroom and field experience instruction. A minimum of 60 hours is required to graduate from TMN-EFC basic training.
- Complete an additional 8 hours of advanced training and 40 hours of volunteer service on approved Chapter projects within 12 months of the start of your initial training class to become certified.
- Abide by the Code of Ethics, Code of Conduct, and submit to an annual Texas Master Naturalist Volunteer Background Check.
When do classes start and what is the schedule?
Our annual initial training program runs from August to November for a total of 12 sessions. Classes are Tuesdays, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Where are classes held?
Most classes are held in the Denton area. There are also field trips to various locations in the area.
What topics are covered in the course?
Numerous topics are covered including aspects of ecology, biology, geology, vegetation, climate, ornithology, entomology, mammals, plants, aquatics, urban ecology, and more. See the training class schedule posted above.
Is there a cost? What does it cover?
Yes, there is a registration fee for the training class, which covers training materials along with membership dues for the year of initial training and the following year. If you need additional information, please email training@efctmn.org
What are the volunteer opportunities as a member of Texas Master Naturalist-Elm Fork Chapter?
Please see the approved service projects and advanced training opportunities, as well as details on monthly Chapter meetings.