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Evaluating The Structure, Demographics, And Effectiveness Of The Mississippi Master Naturalist Program, Sarah Cunningham, Eric Sparks, Adam Rohnke
Evaluating The Structure, Demographics, And Effectiveness Of The Mississippi Master Naturalist Program, Sarah Cunningham, Eric Sparks, Adam Rohnke
The Journal of Extension
The purpose of our evaluation was to assess the structure, demographics, and effectiveness of the Mississippi Master Naturalist Program (MMNP) from 2015-2019. Results show that racial diversity within the MMNP was low and offering basic training courses during the work week attracts more retirees. Subsequently, an average retiree completed nearly three times more annual volunteer service hours than a non-retiree. Therefore, targeting retirees may be the most effective means of enhancing environmental stewardship within this program. Additionally, the results of this evaluation highlight that active recruitment of underserved populations is necessary to increase the diversity of participants in Extension programs.