Graduates put in hours of dedicated study
The James River Master Naturalists, one of Virginia’s newest Master Naturalist Chapters, recently graduated 19 area residents from its inaugural basic training course.  This lively class encompassed more than 40 hours of classroom and field instruction on the ecology, physiography, vegetation and wildlife of the Piedmont area. 

Graduates of the inaugural Master Naturalist Class, include:  Sandy Anderson, Judy Caspari, Sue Dennison, Denise and Stu Doetzer, Keith Flannagan, Dan Jones, Amber Kimmich, Mickey Knight, Dudley Luck, Kristi McCullough, Bill Pawelski, Francie Reed, Sr. Jean Ryan, Susan Shepperson, Rita Shultz, Carson Tucker and Michelle Whitehurst and Barbara Wiederkehr. Following graduation, the James River Master Naturalists elected their first slate of officers.  Bill Pawelski and Sister Jean Ryan have volunteered to serve as Chapter Co-Presidents, Keith Flannagan as Treasurer and Judy Caspari as Secretary. 

Program based on Master Gardener group
Patterned after the Master Gardener program, the JRMN program is centered around a 40 hour basic course. Master Naturalists then perform 40 hours of volunteer service and receive an additional eight hours of advanced training annually to earn and maintain their accreditation. 

The JRMN chapter was established just over a year ago by representatives from Powhatan and Goochland County who believed both counties had abundant natural resources worth protecting.  The group, led by Kristi McCullough, included the following representatives from both counties:  Denise Doetzer, Keith Flannagan, Michelle Whitehurst, Dan Jones and Maureen Moslow-Benway. 

Group expected to play major role in preserving resources, helping community
Bill Pawelski, the new Chapter President, sees many local opportunities for Master Naturalists to serve.  According to Pawelski “Master Naturalists will play a vital role as educators, citizen scientists and resource stewards at the new Powhatan State Park on the Historic James.  Additionally, there will undoubtedly be numerous volunteer opportunities at the Powhatan Wildlife Management Area, as well as at Belmead’s conservation area.

How you can get involved in next class
This next basic training course will begin in September 2012.  Applications will be available soon and are accepted on a first paid / first accepted basis with 5 slots reserved for applicants from each of the two counties.  For more information on becoming a Master Naturalist or to learn more about the James River Master Naturalists’ program, contact Michelle Whitehurst at michelle.whitehurst@powhatan.k12.va.us.