Core Module Classes:
Coastal Systems Module

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Video sample from Coastal Systems class

Sample video segment from Coastal Systems Module

Course Description

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Summary Statement

Florida Master Naturalist Program students will increase their knowledge of Florida's natural systems, of the plants and animals that depend upon those systems, and of the role of humankind in shaping our past, of determining our future, and as stewards of the land. The objective of the Florida Master Naturalist Program is to prepare persons to share their knowledge with others, to act in a positive manner, to help others feel a greater connection to the land/sea and to help others to develop their own personal environmental ethics. Information on the ecology of Florida's systems is an integral part of the program, but we do not attempt to create experts in botany, herpetology, or any other discipline. Rather, we hope to initiate what is for many a life-long process of learning, of observation, and of sharing with others.

Coastal Systems Module Overview

Through classroom, field trip, and practical experience, this Module provides instruction on the general ecology, habitats, vegetation types, wildlife, and conservation issues of Coastal Systems in Florida - Coastal Uplands, Estuarine, and Nearshore Marine Environments. The program also addresses society's role in coastal areas, develops naturalist interpretation skills, and discusses environmental ethics.

The total training consists of 40 contact hours, the scheduling of which will vary among different Instructors. The only requirements of students are enthusiasm, attendance, and completion of group final projects. Classroom learning includes four instructional videos and 12 presentations.

Florida Master Naturalist Program Coastal Systems Video Series:

  • Coastal Uplands
  • Coastal Nearshore Marine Environment
  • Coastal Estuaries
  • Society and the Coast

Florida Master Naturalist Program Coastal Systems Presentation Series:

  • General Ecology of Coastal Systems
  • Marine & Estuarine Habitats
  • Coastal Waterbirds
  • Coastal Upland Habitats
  • Coastal General Birds
  • Coastal Mammals
  • Coastal Amphibians/Reptiles
  • Saltwater Fish
  • Invertebrates I (Corals, Jellyfish, Mollusks, Sea Worms, Tunicates)
  • Invertebrates II (Echinoderms, Crustaceans, Insects)
  • Environmental Ethics
  • Naturalist Interpretation

What is the cost and what will Florida Master Naturalist Students receive?

  • The cost per Module is $225.
  • View course schedules and registration.
  • Certificate of Completion and registration in the online FMNP Graduate Database as a Wetlands Naturalist.
  • FMNP embroidered patch and Wetlands lapel pin.
  • FMNP Student Workbook ­over 1,000 comprehensive pages on Coastal systems, habitats, plant and animal life, naturalist interpretation, planning, and additional resources and sources of information (Student Workbook becomes property of the student).

What other Florida Master Naturalist Program courses are available?

The FMNP consists of three Core Modules. These include Coastal Systems, Freshwater Wetlands, and Upland Habitats. Each module is a stand-alone course and graduates of each Module are recognized (certificates of achievement, lapel pins) as Coastal, Wetlands, or Upland Naturalists. Special recognition for completion of all three Modules will include a plaque, Master Naturalist lapel pin and inclusion in the online Master Naturalist Honor Roll Database.

The FMNP also offers four Special Topics courses.