Minnesota Master Naturalist

About the program

The Minnesota Master Naturalist program fosters understanding, appreciation and stewardship of Minnesota’s natural environment by developing a corps of informed and skilled volunteers.

Advocates for Minnesota’s natural environment

While many scientists and specialists study the environmental problems facing our planet, the scale of the task is truly formidable.

Ordinary people, however, make significant contributions toward improving and protecting our natural environment. In Minnesota, everyday citizens gain an in-depth understanding of nature and have access to professionals in environmental science through the Minnesota Master Naturalist program.

“I had a renewed focus for my love of nature and learned of places where I could experience first-hand the natural world.”
— Minnesota Master Naturalist volunteer

The Minnesota Master Naturalist program benefits the state of Minnesota through direct environmental service and by educating Minnesota’s citizens about its natural resources. Minnesota Master Naturalists are trained to steward our natural environment and teach these skills to others.

Minnesota Master Naturalists volunteer on science-based projects, including monitoring monarch butterfly larvae, managing invasive species, bird banding, and evaluating stream ecology. These participatory scientists conduct real-world fieldwork that helps University of Minnesota Extension researchers and natural resources professionals assess changes in natural habitats and environments.

Something for everyone

Hikers, bird watchers, phenologists, and wildflower lovers enjoy serving as Master Naturalist volunteers. Staff from nature centers, environmental organizations, state parks and wildlife refuges are trained as Minnesota Master Naturalist instructors. These local instructors teach the initial volunteer training course and lead continuing education initiatives for Master Naturalist volunteers.

The Minnesota Master Naturalist program enables volunteers across the state to engage in locally based natural resource projects with like-minded peers, making our state a better place to live, work, and play.

You don’t have to become a volunteer to learn about Minnesota’s natural resources. All Minnesotans can get involved by attending Master Naturalist-led workshops and excursions. Keep an eye on our event schedule for your next environmental adventure!