Mission Statement
The Bernalillo County Open Space Master Naturalist Program aims to instill the pursuit of life‐long learning and promote environmental stewardship. Participants are activity engaged through education and service dedicated to the beneficial management of natural resources on Open Space properties.
Program Overview
The Master Naturalist Program provides an excellent opportunity to participate in conserving, preserving and restoring the local environment. Volunteers learn about the local environment and contribute towards natural resource management. There are currently over thirty states throughout the Nation that have Master Naturalist Programs. We are bringing this program for the first time to New Mexico as a three year pilot project launched in 2010.
Through this Program, a select group of dedicated participants experience a wide-range of FREE classes and hands-on experiences including 55 hours of in-class training and field studies over a two month period (June and July). Upon completion of the classes and field studies, participants carry out a 40 hour service project on Open Space properties.
This program is ideal for individuals who have a love for the outdoors, curiosity of the natural environment, and desire to work with others and help support conservation measures that improve land health.
Program Coordinator
Colleen McRoberts, Bernalillo County Open Space
Advisory Committee Members:
Joaquin Baca, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Services, Partners for Fish and Wildlife Program
Steve Glass, Ciudad Soil and Water Conservation District
Karen Herzenberg, New Mexico State Parks
Verne Huser, Aldo Leopold Centennial Celebration Committee
Laurel Ladwig, Master Naturalist
Tish Morris, New Mexico Museum of Natural History and Science
Partner Agencies:
The Alliance of Natural Resource Outreach and Service Programs
UNM, Science Education Institute of the Southwest
Service Projects:
Master Naturalist Interns are required to complete a 40 service project for certification. To maintain certification, Master Naturalists continue 8 hours of continuing education adn 16 hours of service work. Click on the following link to post hour (for Master Naturalist Volunteers only):
Master Naturalist Service Projects.
Applications for the program will be accepted every March for the following summer training, so check back in 2014. If you have any questions about the program, contact the Open Space Coordinator at
calangan@bernco.gov or call 314-0398.
Please click on the icon below to view the Master Naturalist Program informational video.