Wild Naturalist Certification
Jocassee Wild Naturalist Program
Have you ever wished to go further and deeper into the study of the Jocassee Gorges? This program allows you to do just that. The Jocassee Wild Outdoor Wild Naturalist Certification offers ten core courses so you too can become a certified Jocassee Wild Naturalist.
The Jocassee Wild Naturalist Program allows you to take your time, learning and playing in the Gorges. Since learning never ends, advanced classes are available upon completion of the core courses.
Core 2026 - 2027 Naturalist Classes
Introduction to the Jocassee Wild Naturalist Program: August 25, 2026: 10:00am-2pm – Attendance Required
the Jocassee Wild Naturalist Program course outline:
- Wild Life of the Jocassee Gorges: Dr. Rocky Nation, Brevard College
- Insect Ecology and Natural Communities, Dr. James Costa, WCU, Executive Director of the Highlands Biological Station
- Flora of the Jocassee Gorges, with an emphasis on rare and noteworthy species: Dr. Alan Weakley, UNC Herbarium
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Stream and Lake Ecology of the Jocassee Gorges: Dr. John Hains, Clemson University
- Phenology of the Jocassee Gorges: Tricia Kyzer, Certified South Carolina Statewide Master Naturalist and instructor
- History of the Jocassee Gorges: Sheryl White, Oconee County SC historian
- Geology/Climatology of the Jocassee Gorges: Scott Brame, Clemson University
- Climate, Weather, and Watersheds of the Jocassee Gorges: Mike Rehnberg, meteorologist, National Weather Service
- Loons and Winter Birdlife: Brooks Wade, Jocassee Lake Tours
- Spring Wildflowers and Native Plant Communities of the Jocassee Gorges: Keith Bradley, SC-DNR Botanist
An Educational Jocassee Experience
Book Your Jocassee Wild Outdoor Naturalist Certification Experience
Please click below to book and schedule your Jocassee Wild Outdoor Education experience or to sponsor a Wild Child.