Learn & Discover

What is the Native Plant Advocate Program?

The Native Plant Advocate Program is the updated revision of our beloved naturalist program. We have realized that the information presented during the previous training sessions is of value and interest for more than just those who are able to serve as Preserve naturalists. Everyone should be able to champion native plants. That’s why our re-envisioned program now offers two different training options to expand your native plant knowledge and acquire the skills that will enable you to share that knowledge with others. 

What are the Native Plant Advocate Program Options?

Native Plant Ambassador Program: $475

Go from native plant novice to expert with this multi-part, year-long program. You’ll learn all about Pennsylvania’s native plants, their ecosystem importance and a variety of ways to bring others on board. This program includes our Knowing Native Plant series and Guided Walks, as well as our basic and advanced botany, interpretation and BHWP history and geology courses.

BHWP Interpretive Naturalist Program: Free with the fulfillment of two years of post-training volunteer service. ($300 refundable deposit)

Become an advocate for the Preserve, our community and the native plants upon which all life in the ecosystem depends with this year-long training program. Share the importance of native plants for our planet and provide invaluable support to the Preserve that shares your passion for these amazing organisms.

• If enrolled in the BHWP Interpretive Naturalist Training Program, a 40% discount is available for the KNP programming.
• A refundable $300 deposit is required for program participation. The deposit will be refunded at the conclusion of the initial 2 years of volunteer service.

How to Become a BHWP Interpretive Naturalist

Volunteers have been a mainstay at Bowman’s Hill Wildflower Preserve since its inception. A BHWP Interpretive Naturalist is an individual passionate about native plants and the natural world. They undergo an intensive training program and use their knowledge to give back to the BHWP community. The Naturalist Training Program began more than 20 years ago and sought to inspire the appreciation and understanding of native plants in the natural world as well as the landscape. It is our hope to continue and broaden this program to include a variety of opportunities for volunteers to share the experience and knowledge they gained with the general public. 

This new, dynamic program consists of three major components: an initial training course, volunteer service hours and continuing education.

YEAR 1

• 16-20 hours of training (combined classroom and field experience; see schedule below)
  • This consists of the core training classes and the shadowed and co-led walks
• 16 hours of volunteer service at BHWP
  • 8 hours minimum fulfilled by leading guided walks
  • The remaining hours can be fulfilled in a variety of ways including, but not limited to, guided walks, leading education programming, assisting on the sales floor, acting as a wayfinder to direct guests towards the best blooms, leading private tours of the Preserve, etc.
• At least 18 hours of continuing education training
  • Current ways to fulfill CET include:
    • Participate in the KNP programs, participate in select TNN programs and attend other programming approved in advance by the Preserve's education coordinator.

YEAR 2, 3 AND BEYOND (To maintain your BHWP Interpretive Naturalist (BIN) certification)

• 20 hours of volunteer service at BHWP annually
  • 10 hours minimum fulfilled by leading guided walks
  • The remaining hours can be fulfilled in a variety of ways including but not limited to guided walks, leading education programming, assisting on the sales floor, acting as a wayfinder to direct guests towards the best blooms, leading private tours of the Preserve, etc.
• 15 hours of continuing education training annually
  • Current ways to fulfill CET include:
    • Participate in the KNP programs, participate in select TNN programs and attend other programming approved in advance by the Preserve's education coordinator.

Who Should Consider the BIN Program:

• Must be 18 years old or older
• Enthusiastic interest in the environment and learning about the importance of native plants
• Have a background or strong interest in natural history
• Be enthusiastic about natural resource education, conservation and stewardship
• Good communication skills; ability to interact with people of all ages and backgrounds in a friendly and courteous manner
• Have a willingness to learn and a desire to share knowledge with others
• Have a desire to contribute volunteer service toward the conservation of natural resources and natural areas within your community
• Reliability, punctuality and flexibility with schedules and last-minute changes.

BHWP Interpretive Naturalist Responsibilities:

• Commit to two years of volunteer service post-training
• Lead at least 12 tours each year
• Research current seasonal highlights to share on tours and for personal growth and development
• Arrive 30 minutes before tours to check in with Preserve staff/volunteers regarding any last-minute updates that may affect the walk
• Provide timely notification of any change in your schedule and availability
• Complete the continuing education training
• Attend plant walks and occasional special training about new gardens and programs.

BHWP Interpretive Naturalist Benefits:

• Free individual membership for the year
• Special 40% discount on Knowing Native Plant series programming (20% off all other Education Programming)
• Access to BIN-only walk and field trip opportunities.