Virginia Master Naturalists (VMN) are volunteer educators, citizen scientists and stewards helping
Virginia conserve and manage natural resources and public lands.
Our Chapter serves Culpeper, Fauquier, Greene, Madison, Orange and Rappahannock counties.
scholarships Awarded
Each year, the Old Rag Master Naturalists awards two $2,000 scholarships to local students who exemplify a strong commitment to environmental stewardship and community service.
We are thrilled to announce the recipients of this year’s Old Rag Master Naturalists Scholarships:
Madeline La Venuta and Samantha Gibbs!
Madeline La Venuta, a graduate of Eastern View High School, has demonstrated outstanding dedication through academic excellence, artistic talent, and conservation leadership. This fall, she will attend Virginia Tech to study Sustainable Biomaterials. Her powerful, thought-provoking essay highlighted the urgent need for environmental change and reflected a deep understanding of today’s ecological challenges. Madeline truly embodies the spirit of our mission.
Samantha Gibbs, a Fauquier High School graduate, also exemplifies our core values. Headed to Virginia Tech to pursue a degree in Environmental Resources Management, Samantha has shown unwavering commitment through her leadership in the Ecology Club, local trash cleanups, and volunteer work at animal shelters. Her passion for conservation and education makes her an inspiring ambassador for our cause.
We are proud to support these remarkable young women as they begin their journeys toward a greener, more sustainable future. Congratulations, Madeline and Samantha!
We are thrilled to announce the recipients of this year’s Old Rag Master Naturalists Scholarships:
Madeline La Venuta and Samantha Gibbs!
Madeline La Venuta, a graduate of Eastern View High School, has demonstrated outstanding dedication through academic excellence, artistic talent, and conservation leadership. This fall, she will attend Virginia Tech to study Sustainable Biomaterials. Her powerful, thought-provoking essay highlighted the urgent need for environmental change and reflected a deep understanding of today’s ecological challenges. Madeline truly embodies the spirit of our mission.
Samantha Gibbs, a Fauquier High School graduate, also exemplifies our core values. Headed to Virginia Tech to pursue a degree in Environmental Resources Management, Samantha has shown unwavering commitment through her leadership in the Ecology Club, local trash cleanups, and volunteer work at animal shelters. Her passion for conservation and education makes her an inspiring ambassador for our cause.
We are proud to support these remarkable young women as they begin their journeys toward a greener, more sustainable future. Congratulations, Madeline and Samantha!
ORMN in our Communities:
Clink here to read : Soil and Water Conservation Districts Join Forces with Old Rag Master Naturalists

Nature Photos by Members
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Volunteer Activities by Interest
Our Sponsoring Agencies
Virginia Cooperative Extension is a partnership of Virginia Tech, Virginia State University, the U.S. Department of Agriculture, and local governments. Its programs and employment are open to all, regardless of age, color, disability, sex (including pregnancy), gender, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, political affiliation, race, religion, sexual orientation, genetic information, military status, or any other basis protected by law. An equal opportunity, affirmative action employer.
The Old Rag Master Naturalists chapter is organized as a non-profit §501(c)(3) organization under the Internal Revenue Service Code.
The Old Rag Master Naturalists chapter is organized as a non-profit §501(c)(3) organization under the Internal Revenue Service Code.