Take your love of nature to the next level

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

Sign up for the 2024 Master Naturalist Conference

Explore west-central Illinois this September at the 2024 Master Naturalist Conference, where volunteers learn and grow their skills as advocates, teachers, and environmental stewards.
Conference Details

News You Can Use

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Become a Master Naturalist
Learn more and do more to facilitate conservation in your community.
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Volunteer Database (GivePulse)
Active Master Naturalist volunteers log your volunteer and continuing education hours here.
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Naturalist News Blog
Learn about Illinois' ecology and Master Naturalists projects across the state on the State Master Naturalist Blog.
Naturalist Notebook
Read about nature
Be inspired to get outside and appreciate Illinois' natural beauty all seasons of the year.
Everyday Environment Series
Sign up to explore topics like invasive species, pollinators, composting, trees and more.
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Learn about Illinois wildlife
Learn to identify wildlife in Illinois and ethically handle problems. Be sure to check out the stunning photos!
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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
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Recent News
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Take steps to reduce exposure to PFAS chemicals
URBANA, Ill. — PFAS are chemicals commonly found in consumer goods that are making their way into drinking water supplies where they are a risk to human health, but there are steps people can take to protect themselves.PFAS, per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, are a group of more than 15...
Take care of your trees with summer Forestry Stewardship Series
URBANA, Ill. — Illinois has 4.8 million acres of tree-covered land. From shading homes and feeding wildlife to producing oxygen and filtering water, trees do a lot of heavy lifting. Give them a hand by discovering innovative, research-based management options in the summer Forestry...
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