Master Naturalists

The Master Naturalist training program is an excellent opportunity for individuals to gain a deeper understanding of the natural world. This program covers a wide range of topics such as forests, prairies, wetlands, birds, insects, soils, archeology, wildlife, and climate, providing participants with a comprehensive scientific education.

The mission of the Master Naturalist program is to provide science-based educational opportunities that connect people with nature and help them become engaged environmental stewards.

By becoming a Master Naturalist, participants can connect more deeply with the local environment and actively contribute to conservation efforts. The program is open to anyone 18 years or older, regardless of educational background or prior experience, allowing individuals from all walks of life to get involved.

Through the program, participants not only expand their own knowledge but also become equipped to share this knowledge with others in their community, fostering a deeper collective appreciation for the environment and encouraging environmental stewardship.

Become a Master Naturalist

Illinois Master Naturalist Program participants:

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

After completing the Master Naturalist training, volunteers devote time to teaching and engaging in the community, alongside continuing their own learning through various continuing education opportunities. Click here to see where volunteers spend their time and what they do.

Master Naturalist Course Information

What is the course structure?

The training is a hybrid class with field experience, online Zoom calls, online modules, and assigned readings. Each week covers a new topic with class discussions and related materials.

What does the course schedule look like?

Fall 2025 Master Naturalist Training will begin the week of August 24 and run through November 15. We will meet online weekly on Wednesday evenings from 6:00-7:30 PM. Additionally, we will have weekend field trips at various locations throughout McLean, Livingston, and Woodford Counties for hands-on learning. Those dates are listed below:

September 6
September 27
October 11
October 25

What is the course cost?

The Illinois Grand Prairie Master Naturalist training program in McLean, Livingston, and Woodford counties costs $250.

This fee covers:

Master Naturalist training manual

40+ hours of general ecology coursework in a combination of online and field learning experiences

One-on-one assistance in finding volunteer opportunities that fit personal interests and abilities

Continuing education opportunities

How do I register for the course?

Course registration for Fall 2025 will open on May 12. You will apply through a registration link on this webpage.

What do I do after completing the training?

Internship

After graduation, trainees begin their internship in which 60 hours of volunteer work must be completed within a 2-year period. These hours should be done at approved partner sites or programs. There are many opportunities available, including:

Citizen science

Stewardship

Outreach and education

Maintaining active status

Once a certified Master Naturalist, you must complete and log 30 hours of volunteer work and 10 hours of continuing education or advanced training each year.