An opportunity to learn about the ecology of the Hill Country will be available this spring through the Highland Lakes Chapter of Texas Master Naturalists.

The focus of the Master Naturalist program is to increase a person's knowledge of natural Texas, and then to apply that knowledge through volunteer service to local communities.

A new training class will begin March 5, and continue for 11 weeks, studying water issues, geology, wildlife management and native plants and animals that compose the area's ecology.

Classes will meet Thursday afternoons for four hours at a variety of locations, including the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center, Westcave Preserve and Enchanted Rock for a combination of lecture and field studies. Fee is $100, which includes a textbook plus additional references and resources for further study.

Class is limited to 20 participants, and applications should be submitted early.

To become a certified Texas Master Naturalist, members must complete all 40 hours of required classroom training plus an additional eight hours of advanced training. They also must complete 40 hours of volunteer service within one year.

The Highland Lakes Chapter includes Burnet, Llano and Blanco counties. Persons living in close proximity to the chapter area also are welcome to become part of the chapter.

The Texas Master Naturalist program is a partnership with the Texas AgriLife Extension Service and Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, which administers the state program and lends expertise and support to local chapters.

To enroll in the March course, visit the Highland Lakes Chapter Web site at http:/ masternaturalist.edu/tmn/hl for an application or contact Betsy Bouchard or Ray Buchanan at (325) 379-1455.