Plant identification, barrier island ecology, water quality, wetland soils, phytoplankton sampling and endangered species are just a few of the topics covered in the Mid-Coast Chapter Texas Master Naturalist initial training program. If you love the gulf coast and yearn to learn more about it while embracing the commitment to conserve and preserve it, then you will definitely want to join the Mid-Coast Chapter of Texas Master Naturalists.
The Texas Master Naturalist Program is a volunteer training program sponsored by Texas Parks and Wildlife and Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service. With forty four chapters state wide, the Mid-Coast Chapter encompasses eight coastal counties: Calhoun, Aransas, Matagorda, Refugio, San Patricio, Goliad, Victoria and Jackson. The goal of the program is to develop a group of well-informed volunteers who provide education, outreach and service dedicated to the beneficial management of natural resources in natural areas in their community. Certified master naturalists can be found supporting our local environment in a variety of ways such as conducting van tours at Aransas National Wildlife Refuge, emptying fishing line recycling containers in Port O’Connor, patrolling for nesting Kemp’s Ridley turtles on Matagorda Island, weeding out invasive species at Mad Island Marsh Preserve, monitoring water quality on the Colorado River, introducing children and adults to the wondrous species which live in gulf waters at the Rockport Aquarium and in many other ways and locations.
Each spring the chapter conducts initial training for those who wish to become a member. Conducted by local experts, the initial training program consists of eight classes held in various unique and exciting locations in the Coastal Bend including Matagorda Island, Welder Wildlife Refuge, University of Texas Marine Science Institute in Port Aransas and Coleto Creek Reservoir. Most, but not all, of the classes will be on Saturdays. The fee for the training is $150 per person, which covers all fees and materials. Visit our website for a complete agenda and details www.MidCoast-TMN.org/Training/Basic
If you love the Texas Gulf Coast and desire to learn more while helping to conserve and preserve it along side like-minded good-hearted folks from all walks of life, then sign up for the training and become a Certified Texas Master Naturalist. Classes begin February 1, 2014 and space is limited to fifteen. For more information visit our website www.MidCoast-TMN.org or contact Dick Klopshinske at membership@midcoast-tmn.org
