Potomac Valley Master Naturalist Program
The Potomac Valley Master Naturalist Program has proven to be one of the most popular adult programs. Each year, twenty participants are trained in a variety of natural history subjects including bird identification, soil science, general ecology, and aquatic studies. Once participants have completed coursework and volunteer service, they are “certified” to help with citizen science projects and educational programs across the state.
Monthly Programs
PVAS offers monthly programs that are free and open to the public. These presentations feature expert speakers on a variety of natural history and conservation topics.
Wellness Walks
Join us as we hit the trails in and around our area! Each month, volunteer Ellen Murphy leads the group on trails on various natural areas, including PVAS preserves. Registration is required, but the walks are free!
Adult Birding Programs
PVAS has a very active Birding Committee that was formally established in 2011. The Committee organizes all of our birding field trips, sponsors an annual Birdathon, and is engaged in a variety of other projects and activities as well.
Birding 101 Course
Birding 101 – First held in 1986, Birding 101 is a course tailored for beginning birders that utilizes classroom sessions and field trips to teach everything from bird identification to field etiquette to birding techniques and resources. The course is taught by local birding experts using an impressive collection of images and recordings captured by the instructors.
Field Trips
PVAS regularly schedules a variety of field trips. Some trips are focused on birding; others involve exploration of sites and facilities of general natural history interest. Anyone who is interested is welcome to participate in any of our trips.
Natural History Workshops
Each year, PVAS offers a series of Natural History Workshops. The workshops consist of three or more hours of instruction on a specific natural history topic.
Nature Journaling
Deanna Thorsell leads these beloved workshops, where participants can explore nature through creativity. Whether you’ve been keeping journals for years, or a budding beginner, we welcome you to come out and put pencil to paper in the company of other enthusiasts.