Take your love of nature to the next level
Connecting People with Nature Through Environmental Stewardship and Education

University of Illinois Extension Master Naturalist program brings together nature enthusiasts passionate about protecting, preserving, and restoring natural resources. Through science-backed education, volunteers share knowledge with their communities and make a lasting environmental impact. 

Whether you are interested in deepening your knowledge, contributing to the conservation and restoration of our natural world, or just connecting with like-minded individuals, Illinois Extension Master Naturalist program has a place for you.

Your Next Step

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Become a Master Naturalist

Learn more about how you can become a volunteer and facilitate conservation in your community.
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Volunteer Database, GivePulse

Active Master Naturalist volunteers, log your volunteer and continuing education hours here.
Illinois prairie with wildflowers and sun setting.

Local Extension Office

Find your local Extension Office to connect with your local Master Naturalist program. 

Types of Service

Stewardship
Master Naturalists work together to remove invasive species, collect seeds, prescribe controlled fires, and more.
Community Science
By collecting data, Master Naturalists can contribute to local partner and government projects.
Education
Volunteers connect communities to nature through guided tours, tabling events, and hands-on learning.
Partnerships
Volunteers expand the capacity of local organizations by supporting environmental restoration and educational efforts.

“Being a Master Naturalist helped me understand my role in protecting our environment and allowed me to share that knowledge with others.” 
— Master Naturalist Volunteer 

Resources

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Everyday Environment Series

Explore the intricate web of connections that bind us to the natural world through blogs, podcasts, and webinars.
a group of foxes

Learn about Illinois wildlife

Learn about how you can support Illinois wildlife and navigate everyday encounters with research-based information you can trust.
Prairie field with wildflowers and trees in the distance.

Natural Resources

Connect and learn more about wildlife and natural spaces.
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Community and Clean Energy Resources

Learn more about renewable energy resources and their influence on our environment. 
Upcoming Events
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