PICKENS — Would you like to make a difference in helping to maintain the quality of our native ecosystems? This includes understanding the underlying geology, specific inhabitants, ecology and the impacts of humans on the landscape.

If this sounds interesting, contact Brian Callahan, Upstate Master Naturalist coordinator, at the Pickens Extension Service at (864) 878-1395, ext. 115 to register. Cost is $600, which includes all educational resources needed for the program.

The classes will be held at various locations around the Upstate during the day from Aug. 21 through Oct. 30. Most of the classes will be held outdoors with some moderate to light hiking involved. Some meeting sites will be Caesar’s Head, Table Rock, Stumphouse Tunnel, Clemson Experimental Forest, Jumping Off Rock, as well as other locations.

“While many participants in this program may have prior science education, this is certainly not a requirement, and everyone will be welcome,” said Callahan. “We believe that people in this program will bring diverse skills and experiences that will lead to the contribution of time, energy and ideas in maintaining the native ecosystems throughout South Carolina.”

After receiving training, Master Naturalists may participate in many different types of volunteer activities. These might include: assisting in a nature outreach program at a park, museum, nature center or school; assisting scientists collecting bird census data; collecting data on water quality; or other activities.

The program aims to turn out volunteer citizen scientists who can positively impact the natural resources of the state.

Registration has already begun and space is extremely limited, so register early. For more information, visit www.clemson.edu/masternaturalist.