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Become an expert on the volcano in your backyard as a Volcano Naturalist at Mount St. Helens. The Volcano Naturalist Course is a 12-week certification program offered by the Mount St. Helens Institute and U.S. Forest Service. Students in this course will have the opportunity to learn about the natural history of Mount St. Helens. Each class takes an in-depth look at a different subject, including the mountain’s eruptive history, the ecology of the blast zone, the cultural history of Mount St. Helens, and much more. Classes are led by an instructor who is an expert in the field. With over 40 hours of classroom instruction, and three hands-on field trips, participants leave the class not only as a certified Volcano Naturalist, but with a greater understanding and appreciation for the powerful geologic and ecological forces at play in our community.
The Volcano Naturalist Program is hosted by the Mount St. Helens Institute and the Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument, with the of support community, university and government partners.
Location: Clark College, 1933 Fort Vancouver Way, Vancouver, WA
Course Schedule:
Registration: Course Fee: $360.00 REGISTER HERE
Course Requirements:
Anyone who is interested in learning more about Mount St. Helens is welcome to register as a student. No prior knowledge of natural history is needed by participants, as all that is needed is a willingness to learn.
All Volcano Naturalist Program Participants must be at least 18 years of age.
Attendance:
Volcano Naturalists must complete a minimum of 40 hours of instruction to receive their certification. Participants who need to miss more than two classes or field trips should contact the facilitator before registering to make sure that they will meet the minimum hour requirements.
Volunteer Commitment:
Upon completion of the Volcano Naturalist Certification Program, participants are required to volunteer a minimum of 40 volunteer hours with the Mount St. Helens Institute during the year following their certification. Volunteer assignments are flexible as far as interest, ability, and availability. Learn more about volunteer assignments with the Mount St. Helens Institute online here.
Volcano Naturalist Certification Program, Student Learning Outcomes:
Download a printable flyer HERE.
Clock hours may be available for teachers through OSPI.
For more information contact: Abi Groskopf, Programs Director at agroskopf@mshinstitute.org or call (360) 891-5067.
