a. 40 hours of classroom training
b. 8 Advanced Training hours
c. 40 hours of approved volunteer work
d. Pass a background check by Texas Parks and Wildlife Dept.
Yes. The fee to join the training class is $150/individual and
$255/couple. The Fee covers books, supplies, and a tshirt upon
completion. Scholarships are available.
Classes start on Wednesday, February 4 th and will run through
May 13 th . Classes will be held at the TSUS/Polk County Center
located at 1015 N. HWY 59 Loop (Across the street from the
Chamber of Commerce) on every Wednesday from 8:30am-
1:00pm. There will be no class on April 1 for Spring Break. We
will have very short classes on two Saturdays (Feb 28 & Mar 2)
to accommodate university Professor speakers
There are more class hours than the 40 hours required.
Students can miss some classes and still make the 40 hours
needed. Also, classes can be viewed via Zoom and/or
recordings if necessary.
Classes consist of presentations on environmental and land
stewardship topics. Presenters are from Texas Parks and
Wildlife (TPWD), AgriLife, university Professors, and local
experts.
No. Texas Master Naturalists are not expected to be experts in
the field. We are motivated volunteers who wish to understand
and support our natural resources. We are active in our
communities – teaching others about nature and working on
projects to better support wildlife, clean water, and land
stewardship.
No. All you need is curiosity and a desire to learn new things.
We have members of all ages and physical abilities. You
choose what volunteer opportunities work best for you.
Forms and payment options are available on-line
That’s easy- just come to our Meet and Greet on January 31 st at
Across the Tracks (309 N. Jackson) from 10:00am-12:00pm. You
can talk and ask questions with current members and meet other
people considering the program!