Its most visible project, however, is a wildscape demonstration area on the downtown Riverwalk. About a sixth of an acre, the site uses native grasses and plants to show how home gardeners can attract butterflies, hummingbirds and songbirds. Each local master naturalist chapter has its own focus. The North Texas chapter, for instance, is considering a training program to help make paroled prison inmates employable by learning horticultural and landscaping skills. In addition to at least 40 hours of initial master naturalist training, all volunteers must complete at least 8 hours of advanced training and 40 hours of volunteer activity each year to maintain their certification as Texas Master Naturalists.
Chapters can set higher standards if they wish.