If you now enjoy the school science you slept through, become a master naturalist

From Enterprise Staff

The Piney Woods Lakes Chapter of Texas Master Naturalists will begin a new training class on February 1, 2023. Interested nature enthusiasts from Polk, San Jacinto, Trinity and Tyler counties will take 10 weeks of virtual and classroom training delivered by master naturalists and specialists from universities, Texas Parks and Wildlife, Texas A&M University AgriLife and nature centers. Trainees will get to:

Hang out with other nature-loving people;

Play in the water and mud again without getting into trouble;

Learn to identify birds by their sound;

Lead nature hikes at parks and nature preserves; and

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Participate in many more fun and educational outdoor opportunities.

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; land and water conservation and management; diverse eco-regions in Texas; pollinators, bird and wildlife identification; and improving natural habitats for all living things.

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 typically fulfill most of this requirement.

The class fee of $140 covers the bound state curriculum, first year chapter annual dues of $25, temporary and permanent name badges, fees for speakers and facilities and the required Texas Parks and Wildlife Department background check.

Classes, most 5 hours, will be held Wednesdays for 10 weeks beginning February 1 and ending on April 12 with a spring break March 13-17. Most classes will be held at Polk County Chamber of Commerce, Lake Livingston State Park or in the field. Most classes will be recorded in case you miss one.

For more information or to fill out an application, contact Tina Crichfield via email at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or check out the website and Facebook page. Download the membership application online at www.txmn.org/pineywoodlakes