To develop a corps of well-informed volunteers to provide education, outreach, and service dedicated to the beneficial management of natural resources and natural areas within their communities for the State of Texas.
The Heartwood Chapter is one of forty-eight chapters in Texas. Our chapter is located in Montgomery and Walker Counties. Partner organizations within these counties provide opportunities to volunteer. Our partner organizations include state forests, county parks, schools, colleges, and other entities involved in the management and stewardship of natural resources and ecological education.
Our Sponsors:
The Texas Master Naturalist Program is co-sponsored by the Texas Parks & Wildlife Department and the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service.
Our Heartwood Chapter advisers from these two entities are found on the Board of Directors page.
Partnerships:
Our Heartwood Chapter has formed partnerships with several nature sites. We provide them our volunteer hours for service projects or educational activities; in return, they provide various items we need, such as classroom facilities, outdoor space for demonstrations, speakers, use of office machines, visitor handouts, signs.
Our Volunteer Staff:
Our organization is made up of volunteers inspired by nature. Among these volunteers are those who keep our Chapter running by volunteering to do the operational tasks: the planning, organizing, paperwork, and communications. Feel free to ask them questions, make suggestions, offer to help, and give them encouragement.
Our History:
Heartwood Chapter was established in 2005 by a local chapter development and advisory committee led by Teri MacArthur and chapter advisors from the Texas Forestry Service, Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, and Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service. Past presidents include Teri MacArthur (2006, 2007, 2009, 2012-2014), Don Schwarzkopf (2010 and 2011), Andre Houser (2015-1016), Krien VerBerkmoes (2017-2018), Carolyn Langlinais (2019-2022), and Sharon Newsome (2023, 2024). Current president (2024) is Lisa Houston.