County offers master naturalist training

Posted On: July 13, 2023

Master naturalists not only get their feet wet and their hands dirty, they also learn about plants, animals, ecology and environmental ethics.

Environmental enthusiasts can earn a certificate in Marine Habitat Restoration by taking a 24-hour course offered by Volusia County Environmental Management, UF/IFAS Extension Volusia County and the Marine Discovery Center. The course will focus on restoration of seagrass, artificial reefs, corals and sponges.

The non-degree, hybrid program was developed by the University of Florida. It will run from July 31 through Aug. 11 and includes a trip to the Florida Keys. Through online, classroom, field trip and practical experience, participants will learn about Florida’s natural marine habitats and ways to restore them.

The $200 course fee covers educational materials, field trips and classroom sessions taught by staff. There will be an additional $125-plus accommodation fee for the Florida Keys portion of the course. Participants completing the course will receive pins, patches and certificates identifying them as Florida master naturalists.

The registration deadline is July 20. Class size is limited to 20.

Registration can be completed online at https://conference.ifas.ufl.edu/fmnp/MR23-03hybrid.html. The website includes a secure page for participants who want to pay with a credit card.

For more information, contact Environmental Specialist Trey Hannah at  thannah@volusia.org.