

University of Illinois Extension's Illinois 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 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 lifelong learning opportunities to further your development as a naturalist.
Master Naturalist Program participants have the opportunity to:
Master Naturalists must complete 60 hours of field, classroom, and digital learning and 60 hours volunteer service within two years to become a Certified Master Naturalist. To remain active in the program, an additional 30 hours volunteer service and 10 hours of continuing education must be performed yearly.
Adult learners can also take the same educational training, which we refer to as Natural Resources Core Education class, for professional and personal development only. This is the non-volunteer option.
This brochure is a handy resource to use to invite others to become a Master Naturalist.
Naturalist Core Education Training is the first step to becoming an Extension Master Naturalist. The next training is scheduled for Oct. 2 - 6, 2023.
Master Volunteer Soil Health Book Study list for 2023
Master Volunteer Unit Wide Meetings 2023
You become a Master Naturalist by applying to the program, going through background checks, being accepted into a class, completing the training, and providing volunteer hours to the Master Naturalist program.The Master Naturalist Program is eligible for CPDU credits.
Mission:
To develop an expanding corps of well-educated volunteers to provide service and support for partnering organizations in the conservation, restoration, management, and interpretation of natural resources and natural areas in Central Illinois.
Goal 1:
Offer Master Naturalist educational programs and materials that provide classroom and field based training on the environmental and cultural resources of Central Illinois.
Goal 2:
Cultivate volunteers to serve as educators and community ambassadors for environmental initiatives; as stewards in the management of natural resources in Central Illinois; and as stakeholders who will perpetuate the Master Naturalist Program.
Objectives:
Goal 3:
Facilitate cooperation and collaboration among partnering groups and agencies.
Objectives:
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:
What Does the Training Involve?
Training sessions are typically offered one day a week over a three-month period and are led by expert educators in the region. Approximately 60 hours of classroom instruction and field study and 60 hours of volunteer internship work are required to complete the program and become certified. In order to remain a certified Master Naturalist, 30 hours of volunteer work and 10 hours of continuing education or advanced training are required each year.
Example Master Naturalist Volunteer Opportunities
Resources
Report Master Naturalist Hours Online
Master Volunteer Meeting - Sustainable Landscape Design / Conservation@Farm Prairie Tour, Fowler Farm / Conservation@Home Training / Junior Master Naturalist 4-H SPIN Club / Master Volunteer 12 Days of Christmas Party / Patch of Prairie Program / Jake Wolf Muskie Spawning Tour /
Master Naturalist Hike at Prairie Hills Wetland Reserve, Banner / Fulton Fall Celebration 2022 - 4-H, Master Gardeners, Master Naturalists / Fowler Farm Prairie Tour 2022 / Master Naturalist Training 2022 / Science Adventure Day, Canton 2022 / Horseshoe Bottoms Hike /
Master Naturalist Training 2021 / Rocky Glen Tour / Bellrose Island Tour /