Foothills Master Naturalist program begins May 1

Published: April 19, 2010

CLEMSON — Register now for the South Carolina Master Naturalist training that begins May 1 in the western Carolinas. Training is held in natural areas, including the Foothills Equestrian Nature Center (FENCE) in Tryon.

Master Naturalist is a program of the Clemson University Cooperative Extension Service that partners with groups such as FENCE to deliver training. The Foothills class will meet each Saturday from May 1 through July 24. Participants will learn general concepts of geology, biology and ecology, and how to identify plants, birds and other organisms.

“This field-based course of study is open to those 18 years of age or older who are interested in becoming citizen volunteer scientists, certified to act as guides and docents at nature education centers, state parks and schools,” said Karen Hall, Master Naturalist program director.

Taught almost entirely outdoors by leaders in nature education from Clemson University and the public sector, the course meets at FENCE and other sites, including the Blue Ridge Escarpment, conservation areas throughout the Pacolet River Valley and along coastal South Carolina.

Once certified, Master Naturalists perform 30 hours per year of volunteer service to maintain their certification.

Melissa LeRoy, FENCE executive director, coordinates the Foothills Master Naturalist training. For more information or to register, go to www.clemson.edu/masternaturalist/ or www.fence.org/ or contact Melissa LeRoy at 828-859-9021, ext. 11, melissa@fence.org.

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