COLE CAMP — The Missouri Department of Conservation has partnered with the University of Missouri Extension to offer a series of weekly spring training workshops for the Missouri Master Naturalist program.
The workshops will be hosted by the Hi Lonesome Master Naturalist Chapter in Cole Camp and held at various public meeting locations. An initial orientation is scheduled for 6 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 4, at the Boonslick Regional Library. Attendance at the orientation is required to participate in the full training course.
Training classes will be held Wednesdays from 6 to 9 p.m., beginning Feb. 25 and continuing through May 20, at locations in and around Cole Camp.
Interested participants must register by Feb. 14. Class size is limited, and early registration is encouraged. Participants must be at least 18 years old and pay a $110 fee to MU Extension to cover chapter programs and expenses. Registration for both the orientation and full training course is available online at https://pears.io/events/ mu/1938/. A complete schedule of class times and locations can also be found at that link.
The Missouri Master Naturalist program combines science-based education with volunteer service, engaging Missourians in the stewardship of the state’s natural resources. The program is a partnership between MDC and MU Extension.
"Volunteers are critical to our work connecting people to nature,” said Cara Coates, MDC volunteer engagement specialist. “The Master Naturalist program is a great way for community members to further expand their interest in nature and develop skills to educate the public.”
Master Naturalists receive specialized training focused on the natural resources of their region. Members assist MDC and conservation partners through citizen science, educational programs and stewardship projects. To become certified, participants must complete the initial training course, eight hours of advanced training and 40 hours of natural resource-related volunteer service through a local chapter.
For more information about the Hi Lonesome Master Naturalist trainings, contact Joni Harper at rossjo@missouri.edu or 573-378-5358.
Boonslick Regional Library is located at 701 W. Main St. in Cole Camp. Additional information about the Missouri Master Naturalist program is available at http://short.mdc. mo.gov/4A4.
