Master Naturalist Training

Master Naturalist training is a series of sessions and field experiences that presents a consistent, statewide perspective on Wisconsin’s natural history, ecological processes, and conservation issues.

Typically, 10-15 Master Naturalist trainings are held across the state annually, and their locations, dates, and schedules vary based on the host organization. Each training is unique based on the location, field experiences and guest experts, but the key concepts remain consistent from training to training. Learn more about what’s covered in each of our Master Naturalist trainings.

To synthesize and implement their knowledge, participants will work in small groups to complete a small training project related to education/interpretation, stewardship, or citizen-science. The training project is a fun, low-stakes opportunity to try out volunteer activities in a supportive environment. Once trained, Wisconsin Master Naturalists record 40 hours of service and 8 hours of advanced training each year to maintain certification and receive a recognition pin.

Details:

  • The participant fee is $275 and includes all materials.
  • Financial assistance is available.
  • Attendance is essential.
  • Open to adults 18 years of age and older.

** Master Naturalist Trainings emphasize outdoor learning experiences which may include extended periods of standing, hiking on both flat paths and off-trails with inclines, and a variety of weather conditions. If you have questions about the activity level of the training, please contact the program office info@wimasternaturalist.org prior to registering.

In-Person Trainings

monarch butterfly on purple plant

March 30 - August 17, 2024

St. Croix County, Carpenter Nature ...

April 1 - June 10, 2024

Friends of Wehr Nature Center, Milw...

April 12 - May 31, 2024

The Clearing Folk School, Door Coun...

June 9 - June 29, 2024

Friends of Pheasant Branch Conserva...

June 10 - June 15, 2024

Cable Natural History Museum, North...

July 7 - July 12, 2024

Trees for Tomorrow

July 8 - July 18, 2024

Bong Naturalist Association

July 13 - August 17, 2024

Friends of Urban Nature, Madison Pa...

July 15 - July 20, 2024

Friends of Retzer Nature Center, Wa...

July 28 - August 2, 2024

Beaver Creek Reserve

August 10 - August 16, 2024

Hunt Hill Audubon Sanctuary

A small bird being held by a person's hand for bird banding

August 13 - August 29, 2024

North Lakeland Discovery Center

A dirt path leading into a forest with the leaves starting to change for fall

August 14 - September 25, 2024

Kickapoo Valley Reserve

August 20 - October 1, 2024

Schlitz Audubon Nature Center

September 9 - September 14, 2024

Upham Woods Outdoor Learning Center

Hybrid Trainings

The Master Naturalist program understands that it can be difficult to fit a 40-hour training into busy schedules. A hybrid (both online and in-person) training is in development allowing participants to cover content online and at their own pace together with a small cohort over a designated period, usually 8-12 weeks. The training will be facilitated by host organizations and will be interspersed with online Zoom discussions, and at least one in-person field day. We hope to have a pilot of the hybrid training available later in 2024.