Houston Arboretum and Nature Center: Volunteers: Volunteer Training

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Volunteer Training

One of the benefits of volunteering at the Houston Arboretum & Nature Center is the training that's provided - whether it's learning new skills for your volunteer job or expanding your knowledge of the natural history of our area. For some volunteer positions, training can be done "on-the-job" as you work with staff and other volunteers. Other jobs require attending a training session and possibly "shadowing" staff or an experienced volunteer.

For training dates for specific volunteer positions, follow links on our volunteer opportunities page

Volunteer Education Classes - Nature 101

Nature 101 classes are introductory natural history courses designed to introduce participants with the animals and plants found in our area. These hands-on classes provide a base of natural history knowledge on which to build. It’s a chance to meet new friends and learn more about nature. It's also an opportunity for teachers to earn 2 hours of SBEC credit and for Texas Master Naturalists to earn Advanced Training.

Cost is only $10/class for active Arboretum volunteers; $25 for any other interested individuals.

Advanced reservation required. Register online or by mail or fax (713-681-1191). Payment must be included at time of registration.
Registration deadline is the Wednesday prior to each class; confirmation will be mailed or emailed to you.
Cost (per class): $10 for active Arboretum volunteers; $25 for all others;
Cancellation policy: You must notify us of your cancellation in writing via fax (713-681-1191) or email no later than 10 days prior to class to receive a 50% refund. No refunds are issued within 10 days of class.
Click for 2008 printable flyer and registration form (pdf file)
Questions? Email us.

Nature 101 Class Descriptions and 2008 Spring Schedule

3 Kingdoms - Plants, fungi, and bacteria are responsible for the greening of the Arboretum. Learn to recognize them and understand their complimentary roles.
Class date: Saturday, February 23, 1 to 3 p.m. - register by Feb. 20

Grassland Ecology - Almost one-fourth of the Earth's land area is grassland. Come learn about the plants and animals that exist in this disappearing ecosystem.
Class date: Saturday, March 8 , 10 a.m. to noon - register by March 5

Forest Ecology - Most of the Arboretum is a forest - learn about its wildlife and plants and how they interact as an ecological system.
Class date: Saturday, March 8 , 1 to 3 p.m. - register by March 5

Birds - Learn about the unique characteristics that allow birds to take flight. Meet some of our local fine-feathered friends on a guided walk of the Arboretum.
Class date: Saturday, March 22, 10 a.m. to noon - register by March 19

Interpretation - In today's more urban world there is a disconnection that most children and many adults have with nature and the outdoors. Come and learn some basic techniques on how to better interpret nature to the public, your kids, your grandkids, and even your peers.
Class date: Saturday, March 22, 1 to 3 p.m. - register by March 19

Amphibians & Reptiles - Have you ever been on a walk and heard a frog calling and wondered what it was or saw a snake and wasn't sure if it was venomous or not? This class will teach you how to recognize our local amphibians and reptiles.
Class date: Saturday, April 5, 10 to noon. - register by April 2

Invertebrates - No backbone, tiny brains, but these organisms dominate the world. Learn about the real rulers of the animal kingdom - invertebrates.
Class date: Saturday, April 5, 1 to 3 p.m. - register by April 2

Mammals - Milk and fur are just some of the characteristics of mammals. Learn more about the biology of mammals and what mammals reside here at the Arboretum.
Class date: Class will be offered Fall 2008

Wetland Ecology - Why are wetlands so important? Discover the importance of habitat and energy transfer. Did you know you can tell the health of a wetland by looking at what kind of bugs live in it?
Class date: Class will be offered Fall 2008