Master Naturalists are certified volunteers who are passionate about nature and are eager to share their knowledge with others.
If you are interested in the ecology and natural history of the area, would like to learn more, and would like to invest your time in working with others of a similar mind, you can develop your skills and leadership through participation in the 2027 AZ Master Naturalist Course.
2027 Course Dates Announced
The Arizona Master Naturalist Central Highlands Chapter has announced dates for their 2027 course.
- January 5th – May 1st
All participants must attend one of two virtual information sessions to learn about the program, course details and logistics, and ask questions. Sessions are taking place via Zoom on:
- Thursday, September 17th, 2026 | 6:30-7:30 PM
- Tuesday, October 13th, 2026 | 6:30-7:30 PM
Additional course information and registration links can be found on the Arizona Master Naturalist Central Highlands Chapter website.
A Prescott Creeks Testimonial for Master Naturalists
During the three decades that I’ve been involved with creek and watershed issues, noting of much value has happened without the contribution of community volunteers!
In the late 1990s or early 2000s I was fortunate to participate in some very early discussions for creation of the Master Watershed Steward Program. Like Master Naturalist, it was based on the very successful Master Gardener model. Prescott Creeks was asked to provide content in the form of presentations and field experiences for annual Master Watershed classes in Prescott and in the Verde Valley. From these, Prescott Creeks saw great benefit from Stewards fulfilling their volunteer hours. The relationships fostered by the program far exceeded the required 40 hours of service. They’ve spanned decades where Master Watershed Stewards, became ongoing volunteers, Board Members, and donors to Prescott Creeks. In fact, one Watershed Steward is entering his 19th year volunteering with Prescott Creeks at Watson Woods Riparian Preserve.
Arizona Master Naturalist holds the same potential for Prescott Creeks and for the community! In the few short years that the program has been offered in this area, it has delivered! A large percentage of the Prescott Creeks Board of Directors are Master Naturalists and our core volunteer group is dominated by Master Naturalists working in the field, working in the office, contributing to special projects aligned with the Prescott Creeks mission. I’m confident that this is not a unique situation for Prescott Creeks but is repeated for many other organizations in the community.
Prescott Creeks is pleased to contribute to, and benefit from, the Central Highlands Chapter of the Arizona Master Naturalist Association. We hope you’ll consider making a difference by participating with this fantastic partner organization.
Michael Byrd
Executive Director, Prescott Creeks
