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

monarch butterfly on purple plant

March 15 - August 16, 2025

Carpenter Nature Center, Friends of...

March 17 - March 22, 2025

Wisconsin Department of Natural Res...

The Wehr Nature Center building entrance on a sunny day

March 31 - June 9, 2025

Friends of Wehr Nature Center, Milw...

April 25 - June 13, 2025

Wisconsin Department of Natural Res...

People stand in a barn, looking at and discussing a educational project in teh center of the floor.

May 17 - June 22, 2025

The Prairie Enthusiasts

June 5 - July 22, 2025

Land Restoration School

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 8 - June 22, 2025

Friends of Pheasant Branch Conserva...

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

June 9 - June 14, 2025

Cable Natural History Museum, North...

A fancy gateway created with natural logs and branches

July 14 - July 24, 2025

Bong Naturalist Association

July 20 - July 25, 2025

Trees For Tomorrow

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

July 21 - July 26, 2025

Friends of Retzer Nature Center, Wa...

July 21 - July 26, 2025

Kishwauketoe Nature Conservancy

Master Naturalists looking through binoculars during bird hike

July 27 - August 1, 2025

Beaver Creek Reserve

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

August 9 - August 15, 2025

Hunt Hill Nature Center

August 11 - October 20, 2025

River Bend Nature Center

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

August 12 - August 28, 2025

North Lakeland Discovery Center

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

August 19 - September 30, 2025

Schlitz Audubon Nature Center

September 10 - September 20, 2025

Upham Woods Outdoor Learning Center

September 15 - September 20, 2025

Heckrodt Wetland Reserve

Hybrid Trainings

The Master Naturalist program understands that it can be difficult to fit the 40-hour training into busy schedules or to find a training near you. We currently do not have the capacity to develop a hybrid or virtual training, but we will continue to explore digital options. We will update our website with more information as available.