Thanks for your interest in the University of Illinois Extension Master Naturalist Training Program!

This is a waiting list for people who are interested in becoming a University of Illinois Extension Master Naturalist volunteer. This list will be used to evaluate local interest and offer training classes based on demand. We hope to offer face to face, classroom training if there are at least 15 people interested. 

The University of Illinois Extension Master Naturalist Core Course training consists of a minimum of 40 hours of classroom and field instruction based on the Illinois Master Naturalist Manual. Topics presented may vary due to local needs.

To fulfill the 40 hour minimum training requirement, each Master Naturalist training program will cover six foundation chapters, at least two ecosystem chapters (such as wetlands and forests), at least two “ology” chapters (such as botany and ornithology), and selected supplemental chapters that meet local needs. Additional topics not covered in the Master Naturalist manual may also be a part of the course training. 

Required Foundation Chapters to be covered include:

·         Chapter 1: Introduction to the Illinois Master Naturalist Program 

·         Chapter 2: Understanding the Natural World 

·         Chapter 14: Soils of Illinois  

·         Chapter 15: Environmental Ethics and Philosophy, and 

·         Chapter 19: Natural Divisions: The Biogeography of Illinois 

Training consists of numerous field trips and hands-on experiences and training, therefore interested individuals should be aware that there are some physical aspects to the training. If reasonable accommodations are needed, please speak to the Program Coordinator before completing registration so that those accommodations can be discussed prior to the start of the training.

The registration cost for the program is $250, which includes the Master Naturalist manual.

If you are interested in receiving e-mail notification when a training session is being offered, please fill out the information below so that we may contact you.

For more information, or if you have any questions, please contact the LaSalle County Extension office at (815) 433-0707, or visit our website at https://extension.illinois.edu/blmp/master-naturalists