Foothills to Plains Native Plant Master Program
Serving Arapahoe, Douglass, and Elbert Counties
The Foothills to Plains Native Plant Master program offers different ways to engage and learn about native plants, local ecosystems, and natural resources with courses geared for novice to advanced learners.
Expand your native plant knowledge
Class topics may include introduction to native plants, botany and common plant families, keying practicums, soil chemistry, and more.
Help support healthy ecosystems
Apply your skills to protect native habitats, reduce invasive species, and encourage biodiversity.
Connect and continue learning
Join a statewide network of plant enthusiasts and educators who share resources, ideas, and a commitment to preserving Colorado’s natural heritage.
Native Plant Classes
If you are new to learning about native plants, consider signing up for a one-day class. Topics may include:
- Introduction to native plants
- Botany and common plant families
- Keying practicums
- Soil chemistry and watershed health
- Weed walks
- Build your own native plant and pollinator garden
One-day class are a great way to get started!
Native Plant Master Courses
To develop a deeper understanding of native plants, we offer full 12-hour Native Plant Master (NPM) courses that may be counted towards the Native Plant Master Certificate.
Native Plant Master (NPM) courses are offered at various open spaces, state parks, and other public natural areas. Each NPM course is a 12-hour commitment made up of three, four-hour sessions that meet weekly. NPM courses are taught in the field using living examples of the native flora in Colorado. Each course offers a perspective on the local ecosystem and plant life. Topics for each course include:
- Session 1: Plant identification with an emphasis on scientific names, families, and use of a botanical key.
- Session 2: Ecological relationships, including non-native plants.
- Session 3: Landscape, food, and other human uses.
How to Get Certified
To become certified as a Native Plant Master, complete 36 hours of field training in three NPM courses. Classes may be taken in any county. A volunteer commitment is not required. If you are interested in teaching classes as a Native Plant Master Trainer, please contact the Arapahoe County Extension office.