Bond County 4-H invites young nature lovers to explore the outdoors this fall through the Junior Master Naturalist Program.
Starting Tuesday, September 29, youth will learn about Illinois' natural world through hands-on activities and outdoor experiences. Participants will join portions of the Illinois Master Naturalist Training and learn from Extension educators and local experts.
Throughout the program, youth will explore topics such as forests, birds, insects, wildlife, rivers and watersheds, soils, and more. They will investigate local ecosystems, practice observation skills, and learn how to care for natural resources.
"The Junior Master Naturalist Program gives youth a chance to learn about nature by getting outside and exploring it," said program organizers. "Participants will discover the plants, animals, and habitats around them while building skills that help them become good stewards of the environment."
Program Details
Dates: Tuesdays, September 29 through October 27, plus an end-of-course celebration on Saturday, November 7
Time: 5:30 to 7 p.m.
Location: Patriot's Park, 1000-1010 Patriot's Park, Greenville, IL
Register by 9/15/26: go.illinois.edu/Bond_Nature
The program welcomes youth who enjoy spending time outdoors and want to learn more about Illinois' natural resources. Each session will include interactive activities that encourage curiosity, exploration, and environmental stewardship.
For more information or to register, contact the Bond County Extension Office at 618-664-3665.
University of Illinois Extension develops educational programs, extends knowledge, and builds partnerships to support people, communities, and their environments as part of the state's land-grant institution. Extension serves as the leading public outreach effort for University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign and the College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences in all 102 Illinois counties through a network of 27 multi-county units and over 500 staff statewide. Extension’s mission is responsive to eight strategic priorities — community, economy, environment, food and agriculture, health, partnerships, technology and discovery, and workforce excellence — that are served through five program areas — 4-H youth development, agriculture and agribusiness, community and economic development, health and community wellness, and natural resources, environment, and energy.