IN BRIEF
THE IMPETUS Alabama ranks fourth in terms of biodiversity in the United States but also is threatened by a high rate of species endangerment and possible extinction. The Alabama Cooperative Extension System (ACES) believes there’s an untapped segment of the state’s population that can help ad- dress this environmental challenge. THE WORK ACES took a big step toward this goal in summer 2023 by rolling out the free online, asynchronous compo- nent of its “Alabama Master Natural- ist” certification course. The curriculum team relaunched with free webinars in 2021 and in-person field days in 2022, lowering the participation barrier for a wider range of potential volunteers. Limited scholarships are currently available to cover the course cost for participants, which further lowers the participation barrier. Alabama Master Naturalist & Underserved Communities Alabama Cooperative Extension System (ACES)
WITH NTAE GRANT SUPPORT The team conducted 14 field days in Alabama state parks in two months, reaching and collecting data from 99 unique participants. These early efforts have highlighted the need to engage underserved communities. Funds from the NTAE grant are also being directly used to fund scholarships to broaden participation. THE VISION ACES hopes to create a robust corps of well-informed volunteers around the state who educate their commu- nities about Alabama’s considerable natural resources and how to pre- serve them.
“This project adapts Extension’s legendary ability to educate and support volunteers. Master Naturalists will expand the team’s work and deepen the understanding of Alabamians about their natural treasures while protecting and enhancing their contribution to quality
of life for all.” —Dr. Scott Reed, NTAE Catalyst
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