Take your love of nature to the next level

Our Impact in 2023

886
Master Naturalist Volunteeers
73,035
hours volunteered
148
New trainees in 2023

Annual Report

As stewards of the environment, Master Naturalists share their time and talents in communities across Illinois to invest in the future of our natural world.
Explore Our Impact

News You Can Use

Become a Master Naturalist
Learn more about how you can become a volunteer and facilitate conservation in your community.
Volunteer Database, GivePulse
Active Master Naturalist volunteers, log your volunteer and continuing education hours here.
Everyday Environment Series
Explore the intricate web of connections that bind us to the natural world through blogs, podcasts, and webinars.
Read about nature
Be inspired to get outside and appreciate Illinois' natural beauty all seasons of the year.
Learn about Illinois wildlife
Learn to identify wildlife in Illinois and ethically handle problems.
Winter Tree Identification Workshop on You Tube
Have you always been 'stumped' by winter tree ID? Sharpen your skills with Chris Evans, Extension Educator in Forestry in this three part workshop
Upcoming Events
Recent News
A new master naturalist graduate gets emotional at the graduation.
Master Naturalist graduates ready to serve local communities
CHAMPAIGN, Ill – The East Central Illinois Master Naturalists welcomed 20 new graduates to their ranks on Wednesday, October 23, in a graduation ceremony at the Champaign County Extension Office. The ceremony celebrated the group completing the classroom portion of their Master Naturalist...
Two people in a boat with nets on poles watch as dozens of carp jump out of the water
Study: Invasive silver carp reduce movement in Chicago-area water
URBANA, Ill. — Invasive silver carp have been spreading throughout the Mississippi River Basin since their introduction a half-century ago. Yet, try as they might, the fish have not advanced beyond a particular stretch of the Illinois River north of Kankakee. Research from the...
a deer on the side of the road
Be cautious; watch for deer on roads in fall
URBANA, Ill. — While accidents can happen at any time of year, most deer-vehicle incidents occur between dusk and dawn during the months of October, November, and December. Drivers should slow down and stay alert to avoid deer-vehicle collisions this fall when traveling after dark.Not all...
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