Although a relatively new program to Idaho, the Master Naturalist program is well established in many states throughout the US. The Idaho Master Naturalist Program aims to develop a corps group of well-informed volunteers to actively work toward stewardship of Idaho’s natural environment. Anyone who enjoys and appreciates Idaho’s outdoors can be an Idaho Master Naturalist; teachers, hunters, nature guides, farmers, retired professionals, and …you!
An Idaho Master Naturalist completes 40 hours of hands-on, experiential classroom and field training about Idaho ecology, plants, animals and natural systems. To be certified as a Master Naturalist, students would be required to complete an additional 40 hours of volunteer work for local conservation agencies (these hours could be shared between IDFG, USFS, Idaho Parks, etc).
Through this 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. As a trained Master Naturalist, you can help with fish and wildlife research projects, as well as teach children and adults about nature and why conservation is important.
Our local chapter, the Lewis and Clark Master Naturalist is seeking new members. For more information, contact Jen Bruns at 208-799-5010 (office) 791-5726 (mobile) or by email at Jennifer.bruns@idfg.idaho.gov.