We are so pleased that you are interested in becoming a Texas Master Naturalist! We’ve added this webpage to help you navigate getting more information about the program and process.
The first question is where do you live? Each chapter of the TMN program serves a specific part of the state, so home location is important. Our chapter covers these towns: Corpus Christi, Port Aransas, Calallen, Robstown, Bishop, Kingsville, and Sarita. Our boundary is defined by Nueces, Kleberg, and Kenedy Counties. See www.txmn.org, the main program website, for other chapter boundaries.
The second question is what do you know about us? That’s why you are here! Texas Master Naturalist Program is principally a service organization. Yes, our members are nature enthusiasts, hobbyists, scientists, retirees, educators, amateurs, and so on. But our Chapter exists to fulfill the mission set forth by the State charter. The mission of the 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. Our training is intended to facilitate active volunteerism. Much more about the State program is found here https://txmn.org/about/.
What about the training and service requirements for membership? Details are found throughout our website but here is the summary. Certification as a Texas Master Naturalist requires 40 hours of Chapter Initial Training, 40 hours of approved volunteer service, and 8 hours of approved Advanced Training. The cost of training is presently $195 and includes a Curriculum reference textbook, two years of dues, and the King Ranch Tour fee. After that, dues are $25/year. Members who accomplish 40 hours of service and 8 hours of advanced training are recertified each year and distinguished with a collectible annual service pin. Our developing training schedule is here, 2025 Initial Training Overview.
Are you ready to sign up? The process begins with applying to become a Texas Parks Volunteer and a background check. Once approved, you are placed in a pool of candidates and offered training in the next available program. Click the link to get that process going https://txmn.org/st/welcome/south-texas-master-naturalist-intern-training/
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