The Whale Museum in Friday Harbor, WA, has been training marine naturalists since 1994. Our 2023 summer Marine Naturalist Training Program (MNTP) is fully in-person here on San Juan Island, WA.

Our marine naturalist training course is an intensive 6-day overview of the natural history of the San Juan Islands and the marine waters of Washington and Southern British Columbia (known as the Salish Sea). These will be mostly full days, usually running from around 9:00 AM–5:00 PM Pacific Time with a mixture of classroom lectures and field trips.

This course includes an in-depth treatment of the ecology and conservation of local marine species, including cetaceans (especially Southern Resident killer whales), pinnipeds, mustelids, and marine invertebrates and birds. Not only will participants learn identification and biology of species but also about TWM's marine mammal research, including:

• San Juan County Marine Mammal Stranding Network
• Marine Mammals Sighting Network/Database
• Be Whale Wise laws and guidelines
• Soundwatch Boater Education Program
• collaboration in shore-based observation/acoustic research at Lime Kiln Point State Park

Presentations will be given by highly trained local naturalists, environmental educators, and scientists.

The upcoming summer session will be a dynamic, high-quality in-person experience that leaves graduates qualified as regional professionals or volunteer naturalists after completing 10 practicum hours. Clock hours are available. Hands-on learning and field identification will be emphasized.

The price is $650 for TWM/SSAMN members and $700 for non-members. Price includes lectures, field trips, all class materials, transportation to field trip locations from the classroom venue, an opening reception, light breakfast fare and snacks, and a graduation lunch.

Please note: participants are responsible for their own accommodations and travel to SJI if needed as well as meals outside of what is being provided.

There are only 29 spots available.

Discover all the details about the course registration and more >

You can email Tracie Merrill, Education Curator at TWM, at tracie@whalemuseum.org with any questions.