Continuing Education
Are you interested in learning more about sustainability and the environment? The following programs offer training so that you can learn, meet like-minded people, and channel your interests into volunteering at a higher level.

Legacy Leadership Environmental Institute (LLEI)
LLEI is an eight-week environmental education and volunteer leadership institute offered as a non-credit course through Howard Community College. The LLEI course is usually held on Thursdays for 8 weeks from February through March.
LLEI participants are briefed by experts from NASA, NOAA, the University of Maryland and other organizations who explain cutting edge research on global climate change, earth systems science, the Chesapeake Bay eco-system, sustainability issues, and best practices on leaving an environmental legacy. The course covers global science, regional ecology, local government’s eco-efforts, non-positional leadership training, along with an introduction to local non-profit and county environmental organizations and their volunteer possibilities.
For more information, visit howardllie.com or email betsysing@gmail.com or cmhudson@comcast.net. Registration is done on-line at Howard Community College.
Master Gardeners
The mission of University of Maryland Extension Howard County Master Gardeners is to “educate Maryland residents about safe, effective, and sustainable horticultural practices that build healthy gardens, landscapes and communities.” Master Gardeners receive classroom training and can work in groups on volunteer projects. Master Gardeners have a variety of volunteer projects available. A helpful list of activities is available here.
Visit the Howard County Master Gardener page to learn more about how to become a Master Gardener, Classes are usually held January to March, but please check the website for the latest info.
Master Naturalists
University of Maryland Extension Master Naturalists “engage citizens as stewards of Maryland’s natural ecosystems and resources through science-based education and volunteer service in their communities.” Certified Master Naturalists receive classroom training and some outdoor training as well. To learn more about how to become a Certified Master Naturalist, visit http://extension.umd.edu/masternaturalist.
Watershed Stewards Academy
The Howard County chapter of the Metropolitan Baltimore Watershed Stewards Academy is a 15-class course that trains, supports and empowers community leaders to serve as Master Watershed Stewards in the protection, restoration and conservation of Howard County watersheds.
Master Watershed Stewards reduce the negative impacts of stormwater runoff in Howard County and are key players in restoring the Chesapeake Bay, by working locally to reduce sediment and nutrients flowing into local streams and rivers that feed into the Bay.
The Watershed Stewards Academy provides opportunities for exciting, interactive environmental activities, and satisfaction gained from a job well done. To learn more, visit http://howardwsa.org/.