Become an Idaho Master Naturalist

Do you enjoy nature and are interested in learning more? Do you enjoy outdoor recreation, bird watching, identifying plants and animals, and supporting conservation? Do you enjoy volunteering your time? If so, this program is for you. Anyone who enjoys and appreciates Idaho's outdoors can be an Idaho Master Naturalist. Idaho Master Naturalists can volunteer at nature centers, provide programs for children, help biologists collect data, monitor wildlife, assist at parks and natural areas, or contribute to many other conservation efforts. An Idaho Master Naturalist completes 40 hours of hands-on, experiential training about Idaho's ecology, plants, animals and natural systems. Idaho Master Naturalists will be trained in two tracks: The Conservation Education Track prepares you to help nature center staff, teachers, agencies and nonprofit organizations teach children and adults about nature and why conservation is important. Activities could include giving nature walks or talks, staffing an agency booth, or organizing programs. The Citizen Science Track prepares you to help biologists and researchers collect data and monitor plants and animals. Activities could include collecting water samples, monitoring bird nests, banding birds, inventorying plants, or restoration projects. The Henry's Fork Chapter of the Idaho Master Naturalist Program is organizing classes in the Island Park area for the summer of 2008. Students would complete 40 hrs of combined classroom and field training. To be certified as a Master Naturalist, students would be required to complete an additional 40 hours of volunteer work for local conservation agencies. Through the Idaho Master Naturalist Program you will participate and guide conservation efforts; join a statewide network of dedicated, trained volunteers who work toward conservation; further your education and interest in nature and have an opportunity to give back to your community. Learn more about how to become an Idaho Master Naturalist, attend an informational meeting to learn more about the program, class schedule, and volunteer opportunities: Henry's Fork Master Naturalist Program, Informational Meeting, 7 p.m. Tuesday, June 17, at the Island Park Ranger Station near Pond's Lodge, on U.S. Highway 20.