
Xplor reconnects kids to nature and helps them find adventure in their own backyard. Free to residents of Missouri.
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Xplor reconnects kids to nature and helps them find adventure in their own backyard. Free to residents of Missouri.
A monthly publication about conservation in Missouri. Started in 1938, the printed magazine is free to residents of Missouri.
COLUMBIA, Mo.— Missouri Master Naturalists mix science with service. They engage Missourians in the stewardship of our state's natural resources through science-based education and volunteer community service. To get started as a volunteer, the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC), along with the University of Missouri (MU) Extension, will be holding Master Naturalist training sessions in Columbia and Camdenton.
MDC will offer the following Master Naturalist training in Columbia:
MDC will offer the following Master Naturalist training in Camdenton:
"The intent of the Master Naturalists program is to better connect people to the environment and nature," said MDC Volunteer & Interpretive Program Coordinator Syd Hime. "There are a lot of people with an interest in nature who are looking for opportunities to develop their skills as a naturalist and use those skills in volunteer service. We provide that through a community-based natural resource volunteer and education program."
Master Naturalists receive special training regarding nature, specific to each regional chapter's location. Members help out MDC and conservation partners through public events, educational demonstrations, and stewardship projects. To become a certified Master Naturalist, participants must complete an initial training course and eight hours of advanced training. They must also contribute 40 hours of natural resource-related volunteer service through a local chapter.
The Master Naturalist program is a partnership between the MDC and MU extension, and the volunteers who serve in the program.
For more information about the Columbia Boone's Lick Chapter contact Kent Shannon, MU Extension, at shannond@missouri.edu or 573-445-9793.
For the training in Camdenton, contact Jackie Rasmussen, MU Extension, at rasmussenj@missouri.edu or 573-346-2644.
Information about the Master Naturalist program is available at http://extension.missouri.edu/masternaturalist/.