COVID-19 / Coronavirus Updates:
- Due to the COVID-19 / Coronavirus, we have decided to post-pone our Basic Training class for 2021 & 2022. We will keep the entire chapter updated on the new schedule and contact those of you who signed up with the new dates. We anticipate announcement of a Spring 2023 class around the beginning of September 2022. Once the class has been announced, we will activate the link to online applications found below.
- Additional postponements or cancellations will be announced here as decisions are made.
Volunteer educators, citizen scientists, and stewards helping Virginia conserve and manage natural resources
The Historic Southside Chapter will not be conducting a Basic Training Class for the winter 2021/Spring 2022 period due to COVID-19 restrictions.
Please read over the information given below as you consider joining the 2023 Basic Training program - the first step in becoming a Virginia Master Naturalist.
- The information below relates to previous training cohorts and is presented here for informational purposes.
- If you would like to be put on the waiting list for the 2023 class, please contact the Isle of Wight County Extension Agency office at (757) 365-6262. Thank you.
Training to become a Virginia Master Naturalist consists of what amounts to a semester's worth of college level courses taught by local professionals and professors, all experts in their fields. If you have never taken a college course, don't be intimidated; our speakers welcome all questions! If you have taken courses in these subjects, they are all great refreshers!
Each January we begin with a Meet-n-Greet event to fully explain the commitment involved in becoming a Virginia Master Naturalist and to provide trainees a time to meet chapter members and learn about the current projects of the Chapter. Training classes typically begin in early February and meet every other week through May.
Check out the typical training schedule listed below.
Each January we begin with a Meet-n-Greet event to fully explain the commitment involved in becoming a Virginia Master Naturalist and to provide trainees a time to meet chapter members and learn about the current projects of the Chapter. Training classes typically begin in early February and meet every other week through May.
Check out the typical training schedule listed below.
Cohort VII Graduates
Birding at Chippokes Plantation State Park
Each year the application period for the coming year is from November to January. Since the class number is limited, you are encouraged to apply early. Your application and payment are needed to reserve your seat. The application form is online and the link is given blow. Once your application has been reviewed and accepted, you will be notified as soon as possible. We look forward to assisting you in expanding your knowledge of our natural world and joining us in our efforts to improve our local environment.
A typical fee of $125 or $190/couple (subject to change) covers the cost of materials and expenses for the classroom series and field trips. There is no cost for instruction. The fee includes many wonderful nature field guides and books to use for a lifetime of nature observation and work.
The basic training classes are held at the Isle of Wight County Cooperative Extension Office behind the Isle of Wight County courthouse complex (17100 Monument Circle, Ste. B, Isle of Wight, VA). If you would like more information contact the Isle of Wight Cooperative Extension Office at 757-365-6261 between 9:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. Additional Information can be found on the web www.virginiamasternaturalist.org.
Our application process is online and may be completed on an internet enabled PC, Laptop, tablet or mobile device such as a smartphone. Follow the link below for more information and/or to start the application process.
A typical fee of $125 or $190/couple (subject to change) covers the cost of materials and expenses for the classroom series and field trips. There is no cost for instruction. The fee includes many wonderful nature field guides and books to use for a lifetime of nature observation and work.
The basic training classes are held at the Isle of Wight County Cooperative Extension Office behind the Isle of Wight County courthouse complex (17100 Monument Circle, Ste. B, Isle of Wight, VA). If you would like more information contact the Isle of Wight Cooperative Extension Office at 757-365-6261 between 9:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. Additional Information can be found on the web www.virginiamasternaturalist.org.
Our application process is online and may be completed on an internet enabled PC, Laptop, tablet or mobile device such as a smartphone. Follow the link below for more information and/or to start the application process.
Virginia Master Naturalist
Historic Southside Chapter
Typcial Basic Training and Field Trip Schedule
Historic Southside Chapter
Typcial Basic Training and Field Trip Schedule
The Virginia Master Naturalist program is open to all, regardless of age, color, disability, gender, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, political affiliation, race, religion, sexual orientation, genetic information, veteran status, or any other basis protected by law. An equal opportunity/affirmative action employer.
