Free naturalist training

Applications are being accepted through Jan. 14 for free master naturalist training for volunteers who want to assist park rangers with environmental education, habitat restoration, nature hikes and related activities.

The training program, open to individuals 18 and older, will include in-class lectures, field trips, workshops and restoration projects in and around Bellevue parks over 13 Fridays, beginning in February. Participants will learn about the area's ecology, hydrology, geology, natural resource management, native plants, wildlife, cultural history and restoration efforts.

Upon completion of the training, naturalists are expected to complete a minimum of five hours of community service per month, up to 100 hours of service to Bellevue's natural resource programs within two years.

Training sessions will be on Fridays, Feb. 8 to May 3, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., at the Lewis Creek Visitor Center, 5808 Lakemont Blvd. SE. Ideal candidates will have an enthusiasm for learning and some prior education and experience in natural resource sciences. Bellevue residents will have priority for selection.

Interested individuals must complete and return an application packet available at naturalist training. Download the documents, fill them out then send them to: Master Naturalist Training, Parks & Community Services, Natural Resource Division, 16023 NE 8th St., Bellevue, WA 98008. If you can make electronic copies of the completed packet, you can send it via email to parks_stewardship@bellevuewa.gov. Packets must be received by 11:59 p.m., Jan. 14.

For more information, call 425-452-4195.