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 $300 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

February 20 - October 17, 2026

The Aldo Leopold Foundation, The Ho...

February 28 - November 21, 2026

Madison Parks, Friends of Urban Nat...

March 16 - March 21, 2026

Wisconsin Department of Natural Res...

monarch butterfly on purple plant

March 21 - August 15, 2026

Carpenter Nature Center, Friends of...

The Wehr Nature Center building entrance on a sunny day

March 30 - June 8, 2026

Friends of Wehr Nature Center, Milw...

April 10 - May 29, 2026

Door County Land Trust, Crossroads ...

April 30 - September 11, 2026

Kickapoo Valley Reserve

May 7 - August 20, 2026

UW–Madison Extension Dane County

a group of people sit at picnic tables with a lake in the background. A park ranger is standing and talking to the group.

June 7 - June 27, 2026

Friends of Pheasant Branch Conserva...

a man holding a whiteboard with a drawing of rain falling onto and running down a hill

June 8 - June 13, 2026

Cable Natural History Museum

July 20 - September 28, 2026

River Bend Nature Center

a line of people walking through tall vegetation toward a large oak tree with outspread branches.

July 20 - July 25, 2026

Friends of Retzer Nature Center, Wa...

Master Naturalists looking through binoculars during bird hike

July 26 - July 31, 2026

Beaver Creek Reserve

August 7 - November 7, 2026

Mosquito Hill Nature Center

a bright blue sky filled with large puffy white clouds with a pond reflecting the sky

August 9 - August 14, 2026

Hunt Hill Nature Center

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

August 11 - August 27, 2026

North Lakeland Discovery Center

people walking away from the camera on a boardwalk with green plants on each side

August 13 - August 22, 2026

Lake Superior Collaborative, Superi...

Four people stand at the edge of a lily-pad covered pod making observations of nature

August 18 - September 29, 2026

Schlitz Audubon Nature Center

image of prescribed burn for habitat maintenance at UW Arboretum, two volunteers are tending to the fire

September 15 - October 7, 2026

UW–Madison Arboretum, UW–Madiso...

September 16 - September 26, 2026

Upham Woods Outdoor Learning Center

September 21 - October 12, 2026

Friends of Kettle Moraine – South...

October 12 - October 17, 2026

Outdoor Recreation Alliance (ORA Tr...