The Master Naturalist Core Training Course is for new volunteers to become certified Missouri Master Naturalists. The course is a combination of lecture and field trips, a minimum of 40-hours of instruction must be completed to achieve certification. The training is designed to expose students to a wide variety of natural resource disciplines; the goal is to provide a high-quality learning experience so that perspective volunteers have a strong background in the conservation and management of Missouri’s natural resources. Along the way, you'll interact with experienced volunteers and explore mid-Missouri parks and natural areas.
During the training we will work with you to identify your main volunteering interests, and place you into a small group of trainees with similar interests. Each team will work with at least one mentor, an experienced chapter volunteer, to identify and complete a capstone project in the year following graduation from training.
Course fee is $110, payable via credit card. Those wishing to pay by cash or check may do so through the MU Extension office in Boone County, 1012 N. Highway UU, Columbia. Office open Mon-Thurs, 8:00 to 4:00 (calling ahead is advised, 573-445-9792).
The Master Naturalist program is a partnership between MU Extension and the Missouri Department of Conservation.
Course dates: February 4 to May 6.
A FREE INFORMATION SESSION will be held on January 21 at 6pm via online
The core training classes are mostly on Thursday evenings or Saturday mornings (starting March 13). Location of in-person classes will vary, carpooling may be arranged. A full schedule with all the details, directions and maps will be provided at the Information Session on January 21, and sent out prior to the first class to all registrants.