What is a Master Naturalist?

A Master Naturalist is a person who has undergone specific training and who regularly volunteers time toward various projects. Typically, Master Naturalists seek to make a difference in helping to maintain the quality of our native ecosystems through training designed to help 'read' the landscape of the state. This includes understanding the underlying geology, specific inhabitants (birds, plants, mammals, etc.), ecology and the impacts of humans on the landscape including how we conserve our amazing natural environments. Once trained, Master Naturalists volunteer in a variety of projects. 

Spring Island Trust's Master Naturalist Program

The Master Naturalist program has become the Spring Island Trust’s (SIT) “flagship” education program. In 2000, SIT helped Beaufort County Clemson Extension agent Jack Keener initiate the state’s first Master Naturalist course. After Jack’s retirement in 2002, the Clemson Extension Service asked SIT to continue the program. Since becoming the local provider for this program in 2003, it has expanded from one course per year to a spring and fall session.

In 2005, SIT worked with Clemson University to expand the program statewide by sharing the materials it created and lessons learned. Now there are six chapters of Master Naturalist throughout the state that focus on their individual regions. Since its inception, 2,362 people have graduated from the program. Over the past twenty years, graduates have impacted almost 100,000 people and 13,200 acres with their volunteer service.

One of the goals of the Master Naturalist program is to encourage stewardship and volunteerism amongst the graduates. We hope that Master Naturalists use their knowledge to educate others within their communities during their 30 hours of volunteer service per year.