Become an Expert in Local WildlifeTake the Master Naturalist Certification Class
It's a Big, Fascinating World Out There . . .
Are you ready to get exploring? In the Master Naturalist Certification class, you'll take 8-10 weekend courses (about 6 hours each) in both classroom and outdoor settings.
SEE THE FULL CURRICULUM>> In the classes, you'll learn about plant & animal identification, natural history, and environmental stewardship. 🌳 Sharpen your outdoors skills with a group of inquisitive classmates! 🌳 Get guided tours of local nature havens! 🌳 Learn from local wildlife superstars! 🌳 Meet other nature and ecology enthusiasts like you! This program is produced by the Louisiana Master Naturalists of Greater Baton Rouge (LMNGBR), a 501c(3) non-profit organization. |
Applications are now being accepted for the Fall 2025 class.
Spring 2025 Class Schedule
Saturday, February 8 Orientation Saturday, February 22 Natural History Sunday, March 9 Birds Saturday, March 15 Mammals (POSTPONED) Saturday, March 22 Plant ID Saturday, March 29 Forest Ecology Saturday, May 3 River Dynamics Saturday, May 10 Aquatic Ecology Saturday, May 17 Arthropods Saturday, May 24 Nocturnal Naturalist Saturday, May 31 Amphibians & Reptiles Sunday, June 22 Graduation Applications are now being accepted for the Fall 2025 class.
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I took a walk in the woods and came out taller than the trees. |
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What Exactly is the Master Naturalist Certification Class?
Part education, part entertainment, LMNGBR Certification Course is your ticket to learn, explore, and socialize with like minded people.
Specifically, the class is 8-10 weekend courses--roughly 6 hours each--that cover many major aspects of the natural world.
We're still working on the final details, but so far the workshops will include:
Specifically, the class is 8-10 weekend courses--roughly 6 hours each--that cover many major aspects of the natural world.
We're still working on the final details, but so far the workshops will include:
- Orientation. Meet your new classmates and LMNGBR leaders and learn about the program.
- Mammals. Learn to identify furry friends by their tracks, droppings and habitat.
- Plants. The beautiful, the poisonous, and the edible--you'll learn a little of each.
- Forest Ecology. | What makes a forest a forest? Learn about it in the beautiful Tunica Hills.
- Birds. Channel your inner John James Audubon for a birding excursion and workshop!
- Aquatic Ecology | See what's beneath the ripples of local streams and lakes.
- Arthropods & Nocturnal Naturalist (overnight, 2 workshops). Our most popular workshop; Visit lovely Allen Acres and discover what moths and bugs fly in the night!
- River Dynamics. The Water Institute of the Gulf is waiting to be explored--by you!
- Amphibians & Reptiles. Herpetologist/author Jeff Boundy leads a tour of reptile and frog country.
- Graduation & Final Projects
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I never wanted to be a scientist per se. I wanted to be a naturalist. |
What Are People Saying About LMNGBR?
"I love the enthusiasm and passion for learning at LMNGBR. I have always had a respect and love for nature, but this program taught me how to slow down and observe the amazing, in-depth connections in nature. I had absolutely no idea how fascinating and critically important insects are to our local habitats."
--Amber King, Arthropod Lover. Fall 2016 Graduate. |
"I was really nervous about signing up for LMNGBR, but I'm glad I did. It really turned a passing interest into a full-blown hobby! I'm outdoors much more these days. I highly recommend the program, even if you have only a slight interest in nature."
--John Nettles, Casual Outdoors-er. Fall 2016 Graduate. |
"It's been said that birding is a gateway to the natural world, and for me, that was certainly true. Birds got me outside, but I became curious about everything else...and going through the Master Naturalist program has helped me learn about many other aspects of nature."
--Jane Patterson, President of the Baton Rouge Audobon Society. Spring 2018 Graduate. |
How Much Does This Cost?
The course fee is $250 for the full semester. This includes your $25 annual membership dues. If you opt to take the full 60 hours, this equates to roughly $4/hour.
We're able to offer this price because we are volunteer-run, non-profit organization. No one here collects a salary; it's all for passion.
Your course fee covers materials and administration. Occasionally, refreshments and lunch may be provided, but these are not always included.
The lack of power to take joy in outdoor nature is as real a misfortune as the lack of power to take joy in books. |
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Frequently Asked Questions
When is the Deadline?
The class has a limit of 20 people, first come, first serve. The deadline to apply is two weeks before the orientation, if space is available. The date for orientation and workshops will be posted as finalized.
What is the Refund Policy?
You may request a refund for any reason up to two weeks prior to the orientation workshop.
What if I Can't Make One or More of the Dates?
You can miss up to two of the courses and still be eligible for graduation. If you miss more than two, you can opt to make them up in the following semester. Please note that the overnight weekend (Arthropods & Nocturnal Naturalist workshops) cannot be made up due to logistics.
What Are The Course Dates?
Our volunteer coordinators are working to contact instructors and get the dates set. The workshops are on varying weekends between February and May in the spring and August and November in the fall.
How Physically Demanding is the Course?
Fairly gentle, but there are a few outdoor hikes of several miles. Weather conditions may vary.
Who Are You Guys?
Founded in the Summer 2015 as a 501c3 non-profit organization, LMNGBR provides an educational program for participants to obtain status as a Certified Master Naturalist dedicated to conservation education and service within their communities.
What is a Master Naturalist?
Master Naturalists are citizen volunteers dedicated to conservation education and service within their communities. To become a certified Master Naturalist, one must successfully complete a comprehensive training program encompassing diverse facets of the natural world. Once certified, the Master Naturalist is expected to perform a number of hours of volunteer service each year and expand and maintain their knowledge via continuing education programs.
Are You Guys Political?
Nope. We can't speak for our members, but LMNGBR is 100 percent apolitical and always will be. We're just here to learn and to teach.
Fall 2018 Class