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Become a Master Naturalist

Volunteer for Nature in East Central Illinois

The Illinois Extension Master Naturalist Program is a volunteer training program offered by University of Illinois Extension. East Central Illinois Master Naturalist is our local chapter of the program, and it includes volunteers from Champaign, Ford, Iroquois, and Vermilion counties.

Why Become a Master Naturalist?

Nature is everywhere: in your neighborhood, backyard, and house. Becoming more informed about the environment increases your appreciation, enriching your everyday life. As a naturalist, you can be important in sharing that world with others in your community. Community representation matters, and we need volunteers from all walks of life. Join us and help us allow folks to experience nature, develop knowledge of and respect for the environment, and practice land stewardship.

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:

  • Be at least 18 years old
  • Have a desire to learn and share natural resource information within your community
  • Be willing to devote time to volunteering and continuing education
  • Have availability to complete 40 hours of volunteer training

Volunteer Training

Applications for the 2026 In-Person Training Class will be accepted through January 2, 2026. Informal interview appointments and final class schedules will be circulated to all interested parties shortly thereafter. This training will start in March and conclude in June; a full day each week (likely Wednesday) will reflect educational modules and associated field excursions with one Saturday restored prairie session in Kempton, IL.

Master Naturalist Volunteer Training Program participants have the opportunity to:

  • Learn about Central 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
  • Build relationships with new acquaintances with similar interests
  • Give something back to nature and your local community
  • Learn from and work with local experts

Join us! 

Become a Certified Master Naturalist by following the steps below.  

  1. Apply for the program here: 2026 East Central Illinois Master Naturalist In-Person Training Class Interest Form
  2. Meet with the coordinator for an informal interview and completion of the required documentation by creating a new Extension User Account, where all required program participation forms, State training, and background screening actions are available virtually. Not all background histories will disqualify.
  3. Complete payment of $250 and receive the Master Naturalist Manual. Fee waivers may be available.
  4. Complete the Master Naturalist Training by attending all scheduled dates.
  5. Complete and report 60 hours of volunteer internship within 24 months of completing the training course to become a Certified Master Naturalist.
  6. Thereafter, report 30 hours of volunteer service and 10 hours of continuing education annually to remain a Certified Master Naturalist.

 

Apply Now

Would you like to get involved in behind the scenes planning and organizing? The East Central Illinois Master Naturalists need your help! Find out more about what we do and why it matters. 

Volunteer with Local Partners

Champaign County Forest Preserve District

Current volunteer openings are posted on their website. Volunteer opportunities include trail stewardship, workdays to maintain natural areas, and assistance with both historical and environmental education programs.

Champaign Park District

Volunteers may remove non-native plants, plant native plants, or help with other maintenance of the four parks that currently have sections of natural areas: Heritage, Porter Family, Scott, and Sunset Ridge.

Urbana Park District

The Urbana Park District uses volunteers in many of its programs and facilities. Opportunities include school tours, work days to maintain natural areas, seed collection and native plantings, invasive species eradication, and assistance with park events. 

Allerton Park and Retreat Center

Allerton Allies assist park staff in protecting and restoring natural lands in Allerton Park. Volunteers may remove non-native plants, plant native plants, clear trails, and more. 

Grand Prairie Friends

Volunteers are needed to steward sites, remove invasive species, collect seeds, plant native species, and participate in education and community outreach. 

Headwaters Invasive Plant Partnership

HIPP is a cooperative weed management area, a partnership between local, state, and federal agencies, non-profit organizations, private landowners, and university groups in east central Illinois to address the threat of invasive plants across boundaries.

Idea Store

This place is a store, a community, a donation center – they are a marketplace of items and ideas! Volunteering at The Idea Store is a great way to meet and work with some of the area’s most creative artists, educators, and innovators. 

Land Conservation Foundation

LCF volunteers enjoy time outdoors and learn from knowledgeable leaders while supporting our critical mission. They improve trails, plant native trees, remove invasive plants, and count mussels, among other tasks. 

Upper Sangamon River Conservancy

Volunteers help with Mussel Surveys, Illinois River Watch science, perform highway and river cleanups, manage invasive species, and enjoy protecting and paddling the Sangamon River. 

Vermilion County Conservation District

The Vermilion County Conservation District (VCCD) administers four county parks. You can join the Kickapoo crew, where volunteers may remove non-native plants, collect and broadcast prairie seeds, preserve and maintain trails, and more. 

Find the support you need from our local staff