Master Naturalists

Are you willing to devote time to volunteering and continuing education? Anyone 18 or older can become a Master Naturalist. It does not require a degree or years of experience. The program's goal is not to teach you "everything there is to know" about the subjects being covered but to give you an engaging exposure to the natural world--one that encourages you to seek out lifelong learning opportunities to further your development as a naturalist. 

Master Naturalist Program participants have the opportunity to:

  • learn about Northern 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,
  • and learn from and work side-by-side with experts.

Master Naturalists agree to complete 40 hours of field and classroom learning during the training and 60 hours of volunteer service within two years to become a Certified Master Naturalist. To remain active in the program, an additional 30 hours of volunteer service and 10 hours of continuing education must be performed yearly.

Please note that Master Naturalist volunteer opportunities are extremely flexible and tailored to fit your interests, abilities, and time restraints. If you have any questions, please contact Program Coordinator Connie Handel at (815) 758-8194.

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    Everyday Environment Series | Spring 2024

    Our webinar series features a different environmental topic each month.
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    Do's and Don'ts for Managing Invasive Plants in the Spring | Watch here

    Did you miss this webinar on April 11? Click here to watch it now. Non-native invasive plants can cause much damage in backyards and wild spaces across Illinois, and managing them is a year-long endeavor. Some management activities, such as garlic mustard control or surveying for invasive bush honeysuckle, are best suited for spring. Other tasks are more effective later in the year, such as removing invasive woody plants. Join us on April 11 from 1-2 pm to explore invasive plant phenology, identification, the most effective management timing, and best springtime control practices.
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    Fungus Among Us: An Insight to Fungi in Illinois Ecosystems | May 9

    Fungi are more than a pathogen eating your trees or the mushrooms in your meals. Not a plant or an animal, fungi are dynamic organisms that help decompose and recycle the nutrients in organic materials and form beneficial relationships with plants. About 400 million years ago, fungi were the catalyst that prompted life to move from the sea to land. Today, fungi contribute to resilient ecosystems in the face of climate change. Join our webinar on May 9 from 1-2 pm to discover the vital role the unassuming fungus has in connecting and balancing Illinois ecosystems.
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    Microplastic Pollution: The Big Problem with Tiny Plastic | June 13

    Plastic is the most common debris found in oceans and lakes. Microplastics are smaller than a grain of rice, and scientists don’t fully understand their impact on aquatic ecosystems, especially in the Great Lakes. Researchers are exploring the scope of the problem, as well as what potential impacts microplastics might have on human and environmental health. Join our webinar on June 13 from 1-2 pm and explore where microplastics come from, what we know about the consequences of microplastic pollution, and steps anyone can take to help solve this complex plastic problem.

    Nutrient Loss Reduction

    Nutrient pollution can also affect the drinking water supply and may require installing costly drinking water treatment equipment. The impacts are widespread - algae blooms threaten public health, lower property values, hinder recreational opportunities, and harm local businesses and tourism. Practices can be implemented to reduce or stop nutrient pollution that benefits us and the world's ecosystems. 

    Explore solutions to nutrient loss Master Naturalist Info
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