Program overview

Missouri Master Naturalist™ is a community based natural resource education and volunteer program. Its purpose is to develop a corps of well-informed volunteers to provide education, outreach and service dedicated to the beneficial management of natural resources and natural areas within their communities for the State of Missouri.

To become a Master Naturalist you will receive training and contribute volunteer service.

Training

Once accepted into the program you will receive a minimum of 40 hours of training (link here to training objectives and outline) in Missouri ecosystems, including ecology and resource management and more. We provide experts in the fields taught as trainers to give you the best information possible. In addition, we’ll schedule training to meet your busy schedule.

Read the training outline and objectives

Advanced training

You’ll also receive eight hours of 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.

Volunteer 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, you’ll become a certified Master Naturalist™. Each year following, you will complete eight hours of additional advanced training and contribute 40 hours of service to maintain your certification.

Where do I sign up?

Master Naturalist Chapters are currently located in West Plains, Columbia,  St. Charles, St. Louis, Washington, Joplin, Rolla, Springfield, Kansas City/Blue Springs, Camdenton/Lake of the Ozarks and Cole Camp.  Submit your contact information and we'll let you know when your nearest chapter is holding a training course.  Or you can click on the link to various Chapter websites for additional information.  If you have an interest in helping start a Master Naturalist chapter in your community, contact your MU Extension Center or local Missouri Department of Conservation Office.  In addition you can download a copy of the chapter chartering guidelines.