Texas Master Naturalist volunteers contribute 6.8 million hours of service

Texas Master Naturalists combine their love for nature with a passion for service. These individuals are trained naturalists with specialized knowledge of different ecosystems, species, habitats and environmental demands. The Texas Master Naturalist (TMN) organization is sponsored by Texas Parks and Wildlife Department and Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service.

Skilled TMN volunteers work with communities and organizations across the state to implement youth outreach programs, help operate parks, nature centers, natural areas, and lead local natural resource conservation efforts. Private landowners depend on the expertise of these volunteers to help them gain a broader scientific understanding of the ecology and management of their natural resources.

As of 2023, the program has trained over 16,000 certified volunteers, impacted more than 256,000 acres of wildlife and native plant habitats, contributed more than 6.8 million hours of service and reached more than 6 million Texas residents of all ages. These volunteer efforts are estimated to be worth more than $215 million to the state of Texas.

Project supported by state appropriations and Smith-Lever (3b&c) funds. Photo courtesy Texas A&M AgriLife Extension.