University of Illinois Extension Illinois Master Naturalist Program is designed for adults of any age that want to learn about and positively impact their local environment. The goal of the program is to give participants engaging exposure to the natural world--one that encourages you to seek lifelong learning opportunities to further your development as a naturalist.

Illinois Master Naturalist Program participants have the opportunity to:

• learn about Illinois' natural history, ecosystems, plant and animal communities and environmental issues,
• enhance your love of nature through hands-on training and community-based service,
• practice lifelong learning and sharing,
• interact and build relationships with new acquaintances with similar interests,
• give something back to nature and your local community,
• and learn from and work side-by-side with experts.

Training Structure

The training consists of self-learning assignments, field experiences, classroom training throughout western Illinois led by experts in each field (botany, forestry, wildlife, ecology, entomology, geology, aquatics, etc). Master Naturalists must complete 40 hours of field and classroom learning and 60 hours volunteer service within two years to become a Certified Master Naturalist. To remain active in the program, an additional 30 hours volunteer service and 10 hours of continuing education must be performed yearly.

Upcoming Training

Our 2023 course will kick off on 3/14/23 and follow this schedule:

1. Tues, March 14, 2023 - 6:00-8:00pm
2. Tues, March 21, 2023 - 6:00-8:00pm
3. Sat, April 1, 2023 - Time TBD (3 hrs) FIELD TRIP
4. Tues, April 4, 2023 - 6:00-8:00pm
5. Sat, April 15, 2023 - Time TBD (3 hrs); FIELD TRIP
6. Tues, April 18, 2023 - 6:00-8:00pm 
7. Sat, April 29, 2023 - 9:00a-4:00pm; FIELD TRIP
8. Tues, May 2, 2023 - 6:00-8:00pm
9. Friday, May 5, 2023 - 9:00a-1:00pm; FIELD TRIP
10. Sat, May 13, 2023 - 9:00a-1:00pm; FIELD TRIP
11. Tues, May 16, 2023 - 6:00-8:00pm

A training session will only be held if 10 or more participants are registered.

The Western Illinois Master Naturalist course fee is $125.

This fee covers:

• 40-hour general ecology course that combines both classroom and field learning (must attend min. of 40 hours to graduate)
• One-on-one assistance in finding a volunteer position that fits your personal interests, abilities and time restraints for as long as you remain a Certified Master Naturalist
• Continuing-education events and opportunities
• Professional Development (PD) credits for licensed teachers

Register Today!