OREGON – University of Illinois Extension invites adults of all ages to join them for the 2018 Illinois Master Naturalist program.
The classes will be in Ogle County from 5 to 9 p.m. Mondays, starting March 12 and ending May 21.
The training features instructors from local natural resource agencies and organizations as well as state Extension experts. The training will highlight our rich natural heritage by hosting classes in different locations in the area such as Nachusa Grasslands and Kickapoo Mud Creek Nature Conservancy.
As a Master Naturalist, you will learn about ecosystems and interrelationships of plants and animals that make up our natural world. You also will learn how to assist with land management and to share your knowledge with others in the community. The goal is to encourage participants to seek out lifelong learning opportunities to further their development as a naturalist.
Master Naturalist participants agree to serve 60 hours of volunteer service within the first two years of their initial classroom experience. Volunteers then can continue their certification with 30 volunteer hours and 10 continuing education hours annually. Volunteer opportunities in the county are extremely flexible and tailored to fit your personal interests, abilities and time restraints.
For information and to apply to become a certified Illinois Master Naturalist, visit http://web.extension.illinois.edu/bdo or contact Elizabeth Sosa, Extension Program coordinator, at 815-732-2191 or sosa6@illinois.edu.
Those who need a reasonable accommodation to participate in this program, should contact the Extension office at 815-732-2191.