2027 DeWitt, Macon, and Piatt County Master Naturalist Training
Be an environmental steward and become a Master Naturalist!
The Illinois Master Naturalist Program is a volunteer training program offered by the University of Illinois Extension. This training program trains and educates adult volunteers to effectively share natural resource information and support environmental conservation and restoration efforts in their communities. We all share the responsibility to protect our local natural resources to ensure a sustainable future. Through partnerships with local agencies, the University of Illinois Extension delivers science-based educational opportunities, fostering connections between people and nature, and promoting engaged environmental stewardship.
Class locations will be split between Rock Springs Nature Center, Macon County Extension Office, and Richland Community College. Classes will be held Tuesday evenings from 6:00 - 9:00 p.m.
Throughout the 12-week program, participants gain knowledge and have a better understanding of the following topics:
The Illinois Master Naturalist Program is a volunteer training program offered by the University of Illinois Extension. This training program trains and educates adult volunteers to effectively share natural resource information and support environmental conservation and restoration efforts in their communities. We all share the responsibility to protect our local natural resources to ensure a sustainable future. Through partnerships with local agencies, the University of Illinois Extension delivers science-based educational opportunities, fostering connections between people and nature, and promoting engaged environmental stewardship.
Class locations will be split between Rock Springs Nature Center, Macon County Extension Office, and Richland Community College. Classes will be held Tuesday evenings from 6:00 - 9:00 p.m.
Throughout the 12-week program, participants gain knowledge and have a better understanding of the following topics:
- Geology
- Soils
- Weather & Climate
- Wetlands
- Understanding the Natural World
- Ethics
- Entomology
- Prairie
- Botany
- Forests
- Rivers & Streams
- Natural Divisions
- Ornithology
- Herpetology & Mammalogy
As part of the hands-on learning process, participants will go on three Saturday field trips lasting no more than four hours each. All classes will meet in person. In the case of inclement weather, class may be moved to an online format.
Once interns have graduated from the 12-week course, they are given two years to accumulate 60 volunteer hours to become a certified Master Naturalist. Once certified, 30 volunteer hours and 10 continuing education hours are required annually to maintain certification.
You must be 18 years old or older, enjoy the outdoors, enjoy stewardship projects, and have the desire to become a Master Naturalist. No previous experience is necessary to be part of this program. If you would like additional information about the Master Naturalist Program or have questions, please contact Stephanie Hale or call 217-333-5372.
Once interns have graduated from the 12-week course, they are given two years to accumulate 60 volunteer hours to become a certified Master Naturalist. Once certified, 30 volunteer hours and 10 continuing education hours are required annually to maintain certification.
You must be 18 years old or older, enjoy the outdoors, enjoy stewardship projects, and have the desire to become a Master Naturalist. No previous experience is necessary to be part of this program. If you would like additional information about the Master Naturalist Program or have questions, please contact Stephanie Hale or call 217-333-5372.
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