CHAMPAIGN, Ill. — The East Central Illinois Master Naturalists, in partnership with the Urbana Park District, are proud to celebrate Climate Action Week from October 5 to October 11. This week-long event brings together community members, environmental advocates, and nature lovers to engage in meaningful discussions and activities designed to promote climate awareness and action.

In collaboration with local organizations, the Master Naturalists are excited to offer a range of events that highlight the importance of sustainability, environmental stewardship, and community action in the fight against climate change. The schedule of events includes opportunities for residents of all ages to learn how they can make a difference in protecting the planet.

“The weather we grew up with, the seasons in and of our lifetime, are changing,” says Master Naturalist Chuck Berschinski. “We are learning new words from the Weather Service, derecho, bomb cyclone, etcetera. We all like stability. We prefer things, especially the seasons, to remain predictable. Things are not as they used to be.”

“Climate change is an issue that affects all of us,” says Environmental and Energy Stewardship Educator Karla Griesbaum, “and the East Central Illinois Master Naturalists are committed to helping our community understand both the challenges we face and the actions we can take to make a difference. Through Climate Action Week, we want to inspire local residents to engage in sustainable practices and learn how they can contribute to a healthier, more resilient environment.”

Join the Fun

As part of the festivities of Climate Action Week, the Master Naturalists will be hosting:

• October 5 – A booth at the Fall Fusion Festival, 3 - 7 p.m.
• October 6 – Ecosystem Effects of Climate Change, A hike at Weaver Park, 2 – 3 p.m.
• October 8 – Native Tree ID Walk at the Crystal Lake Park Boathouse, 4 – 5 p.m.

Click the links above to register for either of the hikes. No registration is required to visit us at the Fall Fusion Festival!

Ask a Master Naturalist

As part of the week’s festivities, the Master Naturalists will participate in an “Ask a Master Naturalist” series, where they will be present at various Climate Action Week events not hosted by the Master Naturalists to answer any questions about climate change and provide practical solutions to help reduce their carbon footprint. These interactive sessions are designed to provide expert advice on local climate action, biodiversity conservation, and sustainable living practices.

Residents are encouraged to stop by and talk with these knowledgeable volunteers at any of the events during Climate Action Week. Just look for the bright orange shirts. For a full schedule of Climate Action Week events, you can visit their webpage. 

“Master Naturalists are always excited for opportunities to connect with the community and discuss important issues like climate change,” says Griesbaum. “We welcome any chance to share our knowledge and help people understand how they can make a positive impact, whether it’s through simple lifestyle changes or larger community actions. Together, we can make a difference.”

Past events hosted by the East Central Illinois Master Naturalists have shown the power of community-driven environmental action. From conservation efforts to educational programs, these initiatives foster not only a love for nature but also a shared responsibility to protect it. Climate Action Week is another vital step toward building a more resilient and environmentally conscious community, and organizers hope to inspire participants to take their new knowledge beyond the week’s events and implement lasting change in their daily lives.

Learn More

To learn more about the East Central Illinois Master Naturalists, please visit go.Illinois.edu/ECIMN or contact Karla Griesbaum at kherzma2@illinois.edu or contact Melissa Berg at mkberg3@illinois.edu or call our office at 217-333-7672.