Sunday, January 8, 2012

Missouri Master Naturalist class offered in St. Joseph

The Loess Hills Chapter for the Missouri Master Naturalist program will offer training sessions for those interested in volunteer service to conservation.

Master Naturalists assist with wildlife and fisheries habitat improvements, guided hikes, special events and educational presentations. The program is a partnership between participants, the Missouri Department of Conservation and the University of Missouri Extension Service.

An informational meeting about becoming a Master Naturalist will be held at 6 p.m. on Jan. 31 at the MDC Northwest Regional Office, 701 James McCarthy Drive on the Missouri Western State University campus in St. Joseph.

To become a certified Master Naturalist, a participant must attend classes, donate 40 hours of approved volunteer service and take eight hours of advanced training within one year. Initial training includes classes in subjects such as ecology, native plants and wildlife.

The Loess Hills Chapter training will be held from 5:30 to 9 p.m. each Tuesday evening starting on Feb. 28 and ending on May 22. The training also includes field trips as well as classroom sessions. There is an initial $100 fee for chapter membership to cover the costs of books and activities.

For more information or to request an application, contact T.J. Peacher at 816-271-3100 or Thomas.peacher@mdc.mo.gov.

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