University of Illinois Extension's Master Naturalist Program is designed for adults of any age that want to learn about and positively impact their local environment. The goal of the program is to engage participants with the natural world and encourage them to seek lifelong learning opportunities to further their development as a naturalist.

Master Naturalist Program participants have the opportunity to:

  • Learn about Illinois' natural history, ecosystems, plant and animal communities, and environmental issues
  • Enhance your love of nature through hands-on training and community-based service,
  • Practice lifelong learning and sharing
  • Interact and build relationships with new acquaintances with similar interests
  • Give something back to nature and your local community
  • Learn from and work side-by-side with experts

Become a Master Naturalist today! 

For more information about becoming a Master Naruralist, call Christina Lueking at 618-242-0780 .

Topics

Composting

Get started with home composting!

Learn more about composting. 

Invasives

Invasives have big environmental and economic impacts!

Learn more about invasives. 

 

Forestry

Branching Out: The Wild World of Forestry!

Learn more about forestry. 

Natural Resources

Exploring Earth’s Resources

Learn more about natural resources. 

Wildlife

Wildlife Adventures: Meet Nature's Finest!

Learn more about wildlife. 

Climate

Life is Tied to the Planet's Health!

Learn more about climate. 

Soil

Soil health impacts plant growth!

Learn more about climate. 

Weather

What is today's weather?

Learn more about weather. 

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Bee on a flower
Your Hub for Illinois Pollinators

Pollinators are a group of amazing insects that are vital to both plant life and human life on earth. In recent years, pollinator populations have been declining dramatically which has prompted an immediate need for their protection and perpetuation on the landscape.

Explore the Illinois Pollinators website to learn more about the fascinating relationship between these important insects and the plant life we all depend on. 

Volunteer Information

To be an active Master Naturalist, you must remain current in annual educational updates, a minimum of 10 hours, and volunteer service hours, a minimum of 30 hours, required by the local program. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, we are waiving the volunteer hours requirement for 2020. We welcome you to participate in the allowable opportunities for at home volunteering and continue to participate in online continuing education opportunities. Thank you for all you do for your communities!