Year: 2021
Project(s):
Relevance
Lack of environmental knowledge often promotes poor stewardship of natural resources. Additionally, many environmentally conscious individuals are eager to provide volunteer service, but these opportunities are often difficult to find.
Response
The Mississippi-Alabama Sea Grant-supported Mississippi Master Naturalist Program was formed with the mission of developing an organization of knowledgeable volunteers to help promote conservation and management of Mississippi's natural resources through education, outreach and service within their communities. Master Naturalists must complete a 40-hour course of field and classroom instruction. They must also complete 8 hours of advanced training and 40 hours of volunteer service each year.
Results
In 2021, program participants documented 2,289 volunteer service hours valued at $65,786. Through these volunteer hours, participants reached or educated more than 1,957 people and improved 662 acres through stewardship activities.
Recap
During the past year the Mississippi Master Naturalist Program increased awareness of environmental issues in Mississippi and Alabama, provided 2,289 volunteer service hours (valued at $65,786), educated 1,957 people and improved 662 acres during this reporting period. (2021)