Uplands Course Description

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UF/IFAS Wildlife Ecology
and Conservation

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Florida Master Naturalist Program
Upland Habitats 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 and to help others to develop their own personal land ethic. 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.

Upland Habitats 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 Upland Habitats in Florida - Hardwood Forests, Pinelands, Scrub, Dry Prairie, Rangelands and Urban Green Spaces. The program also addresses society's role in uplands, 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. There is no comprehensive examination required. Classroom learning includes four instructional videos and 12 presentations.

Florida Master Naturalist Program Upland Habitats Video Series:

Florida’s Pine Habitats
Florida’s Hardwood Forests
Florida’s Scrub, Dry Prairie, Rangelands
Upland Habitats in the Modern Human Society

Florida Master Naturalist Program Upland Habitats Presentation Series:

General Ecology of Upland Habitats
Pineland Communities
Hardwood Forests and Urban Green Spaces
Scrub, Dry Prairie and Rangelands
Birds I
Birds II
Mammals
Herptofauna (Amphibians and Reptiles)
Invertebrates I
Invertebrates II
Environmental Ethics
Naturalist Interpretation

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

The cost per Module is $225
Go here for course schedules and registration.
Certificate of Completion and registration in the University of Florida IFAS database for Florida Master Naturalists as FMNP Uplands Naturalist.
FMNP/University of Florida Embroidered Patch and FMNP Uplands lapel pin.
FMNP Student Workbook over 1,000 comprehensive pages on Uplands 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 program and graduates of each program are recognized (certificates of achievement, pins) as Coastal, Wetlands, or Upland Naturalists. Special recognition for completion of all three programs will include a special Florida Master Naturalist certificate and pin.

The FMNP also offers four Special Topics courses. Click here for more information.