Welcome to Central Arkansas Master Naturalists!

For 19 years, Central Arkansas Master Naturalists have been stewards of the natural areas in Central Arkansas. We have educated the public and introduced kids to the wonders of nature and the responsibility we all share in caring for it. We've built trails, improved habitats, monitored the quality of rivers and lakes, provided housing for birds, picked up litter, removed invasive species, grown and planted native plants, and provided educated citizen scientists. We've worked hard and we've had fun. And the Natural State has benefitted from it all. Come see what we do! Here's how...

Apply to Become a Master Naturalist

Applications are accepted begining October 1st for the upcoming training year. Once your application is accepted, you’ll become a Naturalist-in-Training (NiT) and join the training program which begins in mid-January. Completing at least 40 hours of training will qualify you to graduate and earn the title of Arkansas Master Naturalist.

Participate in the Naturalist-in-Training Program

The NiT training program runs from mid-January through September and requires 40 hours of approved classes and fieldwork to graduate. While more than 100 hours of training opportunities are scheduled, you don’t need to attend them all—but we hope you’ll want to!

• NiT training sessions are available on Saturdays, typically twice per month. You are not required to attend every class. These sessions are usually scheduled for a "full day" (9:00-3:30), however there may be two topics covered on a single Saturday, and you may choose to attend the morning session, the afternoon session, or both. Some of the trainings will be available online, but the vast majority will take place in-person.
• Training sessions take place at a variety of partner agency sites, such as Audubon Arkansas, Witt Stephens Nature Center, Pinnacle Mountain State Park, local trails, and other locations.
• Graduation is celebrated near the end of September.

The 2026 training schedule is currently in planning, but feel free to check out the 2025 NiT Training Schedule to see a past example of courses. (Courses may vary slightly from year to year.) Again, graduating requires you to attend a minimum of 40 hours of training.

Serve as a Master Naturalist

Once your training is complete, you’ll earn full Master Naturalist status!  You’ll join a special corps of well-trained individuals who serve Central Arkansas, contributing to conservation, restoration, education, leadership, and stewardship projects. Throughout your NiT training, you’ll have been introduced to a wide range of opportunities so you can choose the projects that most inspire you. You’ll also have access to continuing education to further your knowledge and opportunities to connect with others who share your passion for nature.

Apply Early! THE CLASS OF 2026 IS FULL!

Please check back for the Class of 2027. Application window will open October 1, 2026.

Join a community of nature enthusiasts. Grow your skills. Make a difference.