U of I Extension Master Naturalist

Wildlife Prairie Park is honored and pleased to be a preapproved project location by our local University of Illinois Extension staff. This enables certified Master Naturalist to maintain their certification, with volunteer hours at the Park.

The University of Illinois Extension Master Naturalist program provides science-based educational opportunities that connect people with nature and help them become engaged environmental stewards. The Program educates and trains adult volunteers to help disseminate natural resource information to the public and to assist with conservation and restoration activities in their community.

Caring for and sharing our natural resources is everyone’s responsibility. It is important to care for and protect the place where we live to ensure that it is “fit for the future.” Master Naturalist learn about many aspects of our natural resources including plants, wildlife, archaeology, geology, and ecology. They learn practical techniques that help professionals with managing natural areas and discover exciting ways to educate others about the wondrous natural world.  To learn about becoming a U of I Extension Master Naturalist visit extension.illinois.edu/fmpt/master-naturalists