Become a Master Naturalist

Enjoy nature and Barnegat Bay? Join the Volunteer Master Naturalist (BBVMN) program to explore its wildlife, ecology, and traditions while inspiring others to protect it.

Through a mix of virtual classes and hands-on fieldwork, you’ll gain skills in stewardship, learn about the bay’s ecosystems, and understand the latest environmental challenges. Offered by the Barnegat Bay Partnership in collaboration with Ocean County College, this program empowers you to make a difference.

Join the Volunteer Program

Program Overview

Explore Barnegat Bay’s unique ecosystems through a blend of virtual sessions and immersive field trips during May and June. Learn about local wildlife, marine habitats, salt marshes, seagrasses, and Pine Barrens ecology, along with the region’s rich history and traditions. Field sessions offer hands-on experience in both bay and upland habitats across Ocean County.

Certification Steps:

Complete the Master Naturalist course.
Fulfill 40 hours of environmental service within a year.
Maintain certification with 40 annual service hours and 8 hours of advanced training.

Start Your Journey as a Certified Master Naturalist

Join the Program Now

2025 Course Overview

Virtual classroom sessions:

April: 30

May: 7, 14, 21, 28

June: 4, 11, 18, 25

(9:00 AM - 11:00 AM)

In- Person field sessions:

May: 2, 9, 16, 23, 30

June: 6, 13, 27

(9:00 AM - 12:00 AM)

Exception: June 18 Field Trip to Sedge Island (9:00 AM - 3:00 PM)

Details:

Complete the Master Naturalist course.
Fulfill 40 hours of environmental service within a year.
Maintain certification with 40 annual service hours and 8 hours of advanced training.

Have Additional Questions?

Stay Involved

Make a Lasting Impact with Your Skills

As a Barnegat Bay Volunteer Master Naturalist, your journey doesn’t end with the program. There are countless opportunities to stay involved, contribute to meaningful projects, and inspire others to care for the Barnegat Bay ecosystem.

Research in Action

BBVMNs dive into hands-on science by seining and recording data for sea nettle research, assembling American eel collectors, and planting dune grass. Their contributions help advance the understanding of Barnegat Bay’s delicate ecosystem.

Stewardship Projects

From planting dune grass to maintaining trails, BBVMNs take an active role in conserving Barnegat Bay’s natural habitats. These efforts ensure the bay's beauty and vitality for future generations.

Education and Interpretation

BBVMNs share their knowledge through birding by kayak tours and leading interpretive programs at state and county parks. They spark curiosity and encourage others to become stewards of the environment.

Outreach and Advocacy

Volunteers spread awareness by staffing exhibits at environmental festivals like Ocean Fun Days and Cattus Island Nature Day. Their efforts bring Barnegat Bay’s story to life for diverse audiences.