Ever wondered why the Bosque River bends the way it does or who’s singing in your backyard at dawn? Here’s your chance to find out, and join a community of folks who care about Texas nature as much as you do.
From January through April, we’ll meet Wednesday evenings at Tarleton State University (and sometimes out in the field!). You’ll learn everything from bird calls to soil science, reptiles to rangelands, all while exploring the wild and wonderful places of Erath County and beyond.
The mission of the Texas Master Naturalist program is 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.
Everyone’s welcome – no science degree required. Just bring your love for the outdoors and a willingness to learn. Certification requires 40 hours of volunteer service annually.
Here’s what you’ll get:
- Hands-on field trips – geology, birding, water ecology, and more.
- Engaging classes with experts, rangers, and fellow naturalists.
- A path to certification as a Texas Master Naturalist (plus lifelong volunteer opportunities). Check out our Chapter Highlights!
- A community of people who want to make a difference for our local land, water, and wildlife. Read our Member Spotlights for more information about who we are.
👉 For all the details, download our Initial Training Info Packet.
✨ Registration opens October 1 and closes November 20, 2025. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis. Because space is limited, we recommend submitting your application early.
🎬 Training class begins January 14, 2026, and ends April 23, 2026. Classroom sessions are held on Wednesdays and field sessions run March and April on Wednesday afternoons and on the weekends.
👉 Apply here!
Find your place on the planet. Dig in, and take responsibility from there. 🌎💚
Gary snyder
If you are unable to complete an online application, you may request a printable version by emailing [email protected].
For questions, please reach out at [email protected].
Click here for more details about locations, dates, and times.
In-Classroom Sessions (in person or on zoom)
Wednesday Nights 5:15 – 8:15PM
Location: Tarleton State University, Stephenville
Field Experiences (in person only)
Several opportunities available in March and April
Various Days/Times: Wed afternoons, Weekend mornings & afternoons
Locations: Varies by activity
Optional In-Classroom Sessions intensely focused on Interpretation and Outreach
Mondays 5:15-6:15pm
Note: At least two Wednesday night sessions will focus on Interpretation and Outreach.
