What is Master Naturalist?

The Master Naturalist program arose from the need for a corps of volunteers to provide education, outreach, and services that promote proper management of local natural resources and areas. It was created in Texas, and provides a means for landowners, public officials and residents to broaden their scientific understanding of the ecology and proper management of resources, and gain insight into associated challenges that arise. Jack Keener of Clemson University Extension brought the Master Naturalist program to South Carolina in Beaufort County, and it has been a tremendous success, as witnessed by the consistent waiting list to participate.

“The Master Naturalist program is an excellent opportunity for people who have a serious interest in learning about nature and local environmental issues to have hands on experience with coastal areas,” said Chris Marsh, Executive Director of the LowCountry Institute. “Unlike areas like Charleston or Savannah where the water quality is inherited from upstream, Port Royal Sound is unusual in the fact that its watersheds are all coastal, and therefore local communities have control over their own water quality. In addition, the Lowcountry’s amazing diversity of wildlife makes it a wonderful place to explore.”