Piney Woods area nature classes begin Feb. 2

Master Naturalists in training meet in classrooms and in the field. Piney Wood Lakes Chapter’s next class begins Feb. 2. Courtesy photo

From Enterprise Staff

If you prefer being outside watching bugs and birds, like playing in the mud, hanging out with other naturalists, and have a willingness to keep learning and share what you learn, come be a Master Naturalist.

Pine Woods Lakes Chapter of Texas Master Naturalists 2022 class begins Feb. 2. Interested nature enthusiasts from Polk, San Jacinto, Trinity and Tyler counties will take 10 weeks of virtual and classroom trailing delivered by Master Naturalists and specialists from universities, Texas Parks and Wildlife, AgriLife and nature centers.

Master Naturalist certification requires 40 hours of training and 40 hours of chapter and community service within one year of beginning training. Topics covered in the training include interpretation and management of natural resources, ecological concepts, eco-regions in Texas, pollinators, bird and wildlife identification, and natural systems management.

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Additionally, each trainee must complete the annual requirement for eight hours of advanced training in an area of personal interest. Various presentations offered at chapter meetings can fulfill much of this requirement.

The cost to become a Texas Master Naturalist is $140 and includes the bound State Curriculum, first year chapter annual dues of $25, temporary and permanent name badges and covers any fees for speakers and facilities. Each candidate must pass a Texas Parks and Wildlife background check.

Classes will be held on Wednesdays for 10 weeks beginning Feb. 2 and ending on April 13 with a spring break March 14-18. Locations for the classes include the virtual on Zoom, Polk County AgriLife Office, Lake Livingston State Park, Lake Livingston Nature Preserve or in the field.

For additional information or to fill out an application, contact Nelda Tuthill at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or visit https://txmn.org/pineywoodlakes.