Courses

Certificate in Native Plants

The Certificate in Native Plants program is presented by the Tennessee Valley Chapter of Wild Ones, in partnership with Reflection Riding Arboretum & Nature Center and the Tennessee Native Plant Society. Students can take one class to expand their knowledge base or complete the entire curriculum!

Completion of the Certificate in Native Plants will provide students with knowledge and skills that can be applied at home, in the community, and at work. The course setting will provide a common ground for native plant enthusiasts to meet and connect with others who share their interests. People who work with organizations or businesses that conserve or establish native plants might benefit from including the certificate on their resumes. For more information on the Certification of Native Plants program, please visit their website.

Tennessee Naturalist Program

The Tennessee Naturalist Program (TNP) is an education training course offered at numerous locations across Tennessee and designed to introduce the natural history of Tennessee to interested adults. Graduates join a critical corps of Tennessee Naturalist volunteers providing education, outreach, and service dedicated to the appreciation, understanding, and beneficial management of natural resources and natural areas within their communities.

The purpose of the TNP is to teach Tennesseans about our natural world, inspire the desire to learn more, instill an appreciation of responsible environmental stewardship, and channel volunteer efforts toward the education of the general public and conservation of Tennessee’s natural resources.

To become a Tennessee Naturalist, a person must complete a minimum of 40 hours instruction through one of the TNP training courses and perform a minimum of 40 hours volunteer service. Program costs may vary slightly by chapter but include all classes, study guides, course handouts, and some field guides.