2024 Master Naturalists Training Application
Thank you for your interest in University of Illinois Extension Master Naturalist Program. This program will provide science-based educational opportunities that connect people with nature and help them become engaged environmental stewards.
There is a high volume of interest in Master Naturalist Program and the next steps are:
- Complete this Master Naturalist Application.
- Listen to the 45-minute information session. You must watch information session video for your application to be considered.
- Once application materials have been reviewed by Extension Staff, you may be invited for a short 30-minute web interview and asked to submit paperwork for background checks.
- Accepted applicants will attend all training sessions from August-October
- Complete 60 hours of volunteer service for the Forest Preserve District of Cook County within two years.
You will be contacted through email with links to the virtual information session by 4/16/2024.
Please note: the training days are Saturdays and Mondays from August 10th through October 21st.
*The specific dates with tentative agenda are as follows:
Date Time Topic
8/10 9-2pm The Naturalist Basics (Field Day)
8/12 5-7pm The Naturalist Basics (Virtual Discussion)
8/24 9-2pm Decision Making about our Environment (Guided Hike)
8/26 5-7pm Decision Making about our Environment (Virtual Discussion)
9/7 9-2pm How our Land is Formed (Guided Hike)
9/9 5-7pm How our Land is Formed (Virtual Discussion)
9/21 9-2pm Understanding our Flora (Field Day)
9/23 5-7pm Understanding our Flora (Virtual Discussion)
10/5 9-2pm Disruptions in our Environment (Guided Hike)
10/7 5-7pm Disruptions in our Environment (Virtual Hike)
10/19 9-3pm Practicum (in person)
10/21 5-7pm Putting it All Together.