JOIN US
If you are passionate about the outdoors, or just want to be a part of our group you can join us! To become a Master Naturalist, you will be given expert training and contribute volunteer service. Once accepted into the program you will receive 40 hours of education in Missouri ecosystems, including ecology and resource management and more. We provide experts in the field taught as trainers to give you the best information possible. This includes training in a classroom setting as well as in the field.
Advanced Training
There will be opportunities for advanced training from experts in a subject of your choosing. You might focus on native plant or bird identification, learn how to restore prairies or monitor water quality, or you might choose to learn more about teaching conservation education to others. Master Naturalists are expected to complete 8 hours of advanced training annually.
Service
You will have the opportunity to contribute 40 hours of service in natural resource conservation in projects that meet local conservation needs and that you help design. Service possibilities include assisting with plant and animal surveys, natural community restoration and demonstration, native plant gardens, participating in a speakers bureau, giving school programs, assisting with outdoor skills training, and more.
Certification
Once you have received your training and completed your service, and completed an approved capstone project, you’ll become a certified Master Naturalist™. Each year following, you must complete eight hours of additional advanced training and contribute 40 hours of service to maintain your certification.
The next MMN class is estimated to occur in 2026!
To sign up to receive an email fill a form in the following link: https://forms.gle/jgrpNKcnEMNjUFQd7
For more information about the Chert Glades Chapter’s training, contact MDC Education Consultant Jeff Cantrell at jeff.cantrell@mdc.mo.gov.
Information about the Master Naturalist program is available at http://extension.missouri.edu/masternaturalist/.
For information about all MDC volunteer opportunities, visit mdc.mo.gov.