This is the online interest form for the Coles, Cumberland, Douglas/Moultrie, and Shelby Master Naturalist program. If you live outside of these five counties, please contact your local extension office for more information. Interest forms completed by individuals who live outside of these counties will not be forwarded to other county program coordinators. Please look over your county's website to learn about the Master Naturalist volunteer program before submitting the interest form.
Once you submit this interest form,
1. The Master Naturalist Program Coordinator will contact you to provide more information about the program and instructions on how to apply through the online Volunteer Gateway System.
2. Once the background checks are complete, a meet and greet will be scheduled. There, you will receive final registration and course information. The training fee is $200. Partial fee waivers may be granted if financial assistance is needed.
3. Course completion and 60 hours of volunteer time are mandatory in order to become a certified active Master Naturalist. Volunteer time can be completed within 2 years of taking the course.
4. To maintain certification in subsequent years, you must complete 10 hours of continuing education and 30 hours of volunteer activities annually.