Master Naturalists
The University of Illinois Master Naturalist Program is an educational volunteer training program offered by University of Illinois Extension. The program is designed to give participants an opportunity to experience nature, develop knowledge of and respect for the environment, and practice natural resource stewardship. The local Master Naturalist group, established in 2019, is coordinated by University of Illinois Extension serving Coles, Cumberland, Douglas, Moultrie, and Shelby Counties. This local chapter is sponsored by Coles County Soil & Water Conservation District, Douglas Hart Nature Center, and Grand Prairie Friends. Our local chapter shares the mission, vision, and goals of this statewide extension program. Find other Illinois Master Naturalist groups on the state website.
Our local training runs from August through mid-October, Tuesday evenings from 5:30-8:30 pm in Mattoon. Two Saturday field sessions are also held mid to late September from 9:00 am – 1:00 pm. Locations are determined before training begins. Past locations include Warbler Ridge Conservation area near Charleston and Lake Shelbyville.
Volunteer Training
University of Illinois Extension's Illinois Master Naturalist Program is an educational volunteer training program offered by the University of Illinois Extension. The program is to give participants and opportunity to experience nature, develop knowledge of and respect for the environment, and practice natural resource stewardship. The local Master Naturalist group, established in 2019, is coordinated by University of Illinois Extension serving Coles, Cumberland, Douglas, Moultrie and Shelby Counties. We partner with Coles County Soil & Water Conservation District, Douglas Hart Nature Center, and Grand Prairie Friends to provide volunteer and educational opportunities to our members. Our local chapter shares the mission, vision, and goals of this statewide extension program. Find other Illinois Master Naturalist groups on the state website.
Our local training is offered jointly with Extension office in Clay, Effingham, Fayette, and Jasper Counties, expending opportunities for collaboration and regional learning. Training runs from August through mid-October, Tuesday evenings from 5:30 - 8:30 pm. Two Saturday field sessions are also held mid to late September from 9:00 am - 1:00pm. Training locations are determined prior to the course start and have included sites such as Douglas-Hart Nature Center, Warbler Ridge Conservation Area near Charleston, and Lake Shelbyville.
Why Become a Master Naturalist?
Nature is everywhere, in your neighborhood, in your backyard, and in your house. Becoming more educated about the natural world increases your awareness and appreciation of it, enriching your everyday life. In the tradition of John Muir, John James Audubon, and even Teddy Roosevelt, as a naturalist, you can contribute to conservation and a greener world. And you can play an important role in sharing that world with others in your community.
What Qualifications Must I Meet?
Anyone can become a Master Naturalist- it does not require a degree or years of experience. you do, however, need to:
- Have a sincere desire to learn and share natural resource information within your community
- Be able to communicate effectively
- Be willing to devote time to volunteering and continuing education
Join Us!
Become a Master Naturalist by following the steps below.
- Complete the interest form.
- Attend an orientation meeting and begin the online application process.
- Complete payment of $250 and receive the Master Naturalist Manual. Partial fee waivers are available upon request.
- Attend Master Naturalist Training (one night a week, Aug. - Oct. and two Saturdays).
- Complete and report 60 hours of volunteer internship within 24 months of completing the training course.
- To remain certified, an additional 30 hours of volunteer service and 10 hours of continuing education should be performed and reported annually.
Who we are:
Our Mission
The mission of the University of Illinois Extension Master Naturalist program is to provide science-based educational opportunities that connect people with nature and help them become engaged environmental stewards.
Our Vision
To give individuals the opportunity to experience nature, develop knowledge of and respect for the environment, and practice natural resource stewardship.
Our Goals
- Offer Master Naturalist educational programs and materials that provide classroom and field-based training on the environmental and cultural resources of Illinois.
- Cultivate volunteers to serve as educators and community ambassadors for environmental initiatives; as stewards in the management of natural resources in Illinois, and as stakeholders who will perpetuate the Master Naturalist Program.
- Facilitate cooperation and collaboration among partner groups and agencies.
Volunteer Locally
Grand Prairie Friends
Volunteers are needed to steward sites, remove invasive species, collect seed, plant native species, and participate in education and community outreach.
Douglas-Hart Nature Center
Current volunteer openings are posted on the website. Volunteer opportunities include prairie planting, mulching, creating critter castles, invasive removal, and education.
Coles County Soil and Water Conservation District
Contact Coles County Soil and Water Conservation District for volunteer opportunities.
Volunteer Resources
Volunteer Time Tracking System
Log your volunteer and continuing education hours here.
Merchandise
Order Master Naturalist logo apparel
Useful Resources
Blogs
- Naturalist Notebook: Reviews and journal entries inspired by nature in West Central Illinois.
- Prairie to Perennials: An almanac of all things that grow in Lincoln's backyard.
Podcast
- Spotlight on Natural Resources: Current topics in Illinois Natural Resources
Videos & Webinars
- Everyday Environment Webinar: A series of webinars exploring a variety of topics.
- Extension Forestry Youtube
- Follow us on Facebook and stay up to date on current activities and upcoming events.