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a boardwalk through a wetland

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Volunteer Stories

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Illinois Extension Master Naturalist volunteers share their knowledge and talents by putting research into action to help sustain and support the prairie state’s natural resources. 

Explore volunteer projects across Illinois with this interactive map. 

Illinois Master Naturalist logo

Around the state and in your backyard, University of Illinois Extension Master Naturalists connect communities with the natural world.  

The Master Naturalist program leverages the expertise of university scientists and environmental partners to train adult volunteers to be environmental advocates by putting research into action. Our goal is to empower nature enthusiasts to put their unique skills to use through local conservation and restoration activities.

Every year, Master Naturalists remove invasive species, monitor the health of waterways, teach youth about the environment, and invest in the future of our natural areas. 

Statewide Impact

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929
Number of Volunteers
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77,795
Volunteer Hours
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$8.65M
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While the following stories highlight one project from a county, local Master Naturalist programs have many ongoing projects. 

If you’re interested in learning more about local programs, click the link in a listing. 

Recipes

Map development: Alyssa Waller, Sam Stickley, Abigail Garofalo, Emily Steele. 

Stories: Submitted by local Master Naturalist program coordinators. 

You can be a positive force for change.