About

About Us

The Fairfax Master Naturalist (FMN) chapter of the Virginia Master Naturalist Program is an all-volunteer organization of trained and certified members who serve as officers and administer the program at the local level.

Our Mission

We develop volunteers by offering knowledge and skills to enable them to provide education, outreach, and service for the beneficial management of natural resources and natural areas in the Fairfax County area.  We coordinate needs and projects with volunteers.  We do this under the umbrella of a membership organization.

Who is eligible?

Individuals who:

• Have a commitment to volunteer service
• Are enthusiastic and willing to learn
• Want to improve our natural resources

FMN accepts volunteers from any Northern Virginia jurisdiction, even those with their own chapters; however, the 40 volunteer hours required annually for certification must be completed in Virginia.

The Virginia Master Naturalist program is open to all, regardless of age, color, disability, sex (including pregnancy), gender, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, political affiliation, race, religion, sexual orientation, genetic information, military status, or any other basis protected by law. An equal opportunity/affirmative action employer.

How do I become a Certified Master Naturalist with FMN?

• Apply for and complete a Basic Training Course
• Complete 40 hours of approved Volunteer Service each year
• Complete an additional 8 hours of Continuing Education each year
• The process typically takes 6-12 months

Our Sponsors

The Virginia Master Naturalist Program is jointly sponsored by six state agencies:

• Virginia Cooperative Extension
• Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources
• Department of Forestry
• Department of Conservation and Recreation
• Virginia Museum of Natural History
• Virginia Department of Environmental Quality