Learn more about the ecology and natural history of Minnesota's deciduous forests and major riverways at Cedar Creek Ecosystem Science Reserve, a biological field station with the University of Minnesota.
We will explore the field station throughout the one-week naturalist course, learning about Minnesota-based scientific research through hands-on activities involving people, plants, animals, geology, and ecosystems. This introductory course will equip participants with knowledge and skills to share outdoor experiences with youth and families and encourage environmental stewardship in our local communities.
Attendance at all sessions is required. Overnight housing is available on-site for an extra fee. For more information about housing, contact Kara Baldwin at baldwink@umn.edu.
Audience
Potential and current Master Naturalist volunteers.
Cost
$295
Includes manuals and supplies.
If you would like to receive a scholarship do not register now. Instead, complete this scholarship form and wait to be contacted before enrolling.
Registration
Cancellation requests received more than two weeks before the start of class are refunded minus a $20 processing fee. Cancellation requests received less than two weeks before the start of class are refunded minus $50. If possible, your full fee may be transferred to another biome course.
Accommodations
University of Minnesota Extension is committed to providing equal opportunity for participation in all programs, services, and activities. To request accommodations for persons with disabilities, contact Julie Larson, larso143@umn.edu, two weeks before the start of the event. Requests received after this date will be honored whenever possible.
Language
This offering is delivered in English. Interpreter services may be available with an advance request.
About the Big Woods, Big Rivers course
In this core course, training is tailored to Minnesota's Eastern Broadleaf Forest biome. This area makes a diagonal sash across Minnesota, starting at the northwest corner of the state with a narrow band and widening out in the southeast. It encompasses approximately 12 million acres and includes three of the largest rivers in the state.
Big Woods, Big Rivers covers topics of geology, glaciers, water, wildlife, humans, ecology, and botany using a variety of teaching techniques, ranging from lectures, classroom discussions, field trips, fieldwork, small group work, and readings.
Participants must complete the full 40 hours of training to become a certified Minnesota Master Naturalist Volunteer.
Each participant must complete a group capstone project. Participants will choose a capstone that they can complete before finishing the course.
Learn more about Master Naturalist volunteer training
