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Contact Us

Sandra Mason
Extension Educator, Horticulture
University of Illinois Extension
801 North Country Fair Drive
Suite D
Champaign, IL 61821
Phone: 217-333-7672
FAX: 217-333-7683
slmason@illinois.edu

East Central Illinois Master Naturalists

East Central Illinois Master Naturalists

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7. Education Opportunities

Continuing education expands one's depth and breadth of knowledge, increases one's value as a volunteer, and provides a chance to interact with other Master Naturalists and subject area experts. To maintain Master Naturalist certification, one is required to complete 10 hours of continuing education annually. These hours can come from classroom, workshop, and/or self-study activities.

How do I Find Education Opportunities?

1. Check out the "Register Online" section at the right. Scheduled classes are listed and available for online registration.

2. Visit Sponsor and Partner websites.

3. Scan the "Projects" and "Events" sections of the ECIMN website.

4. Watch for broadcast emails to Master Naturalists regarding education.

If you have or know of activities for your fellow Master Naturalists, please forward them to Mnaturalistannouncements@gmail.com.

5. Search out educational opportunities on your own that fit your area of interest.

What Qualifies as Education?

Acceptable continuing education is that which supports the mission and goals of the ECIMN chapter, and/or furthers knowledge and skill related to service in the ECIMN region. Members shall review the stated mission and goals of ECIMN, and if they think the activity furthers the mission and goals and their own expertise, then the educational program should be submitted as continuing education hours. Read the ECIMN Continuing Education Policy for more details.

How do I Suggest Education Ideas?

Ideas for continuing education are welcomed by the Program and Continuing Ed Committee of the ECMIN Advisory Board (Mary Stech, mkstech@mchsi.com). Please route your suggestions to them.

Master Naturalists are also encouraged to share their knowledge by delivering education. If you have a class/workshop idea you would like to pursue, please let the Curriculum Committee know.

How do I Report Education Hours?

Keep a log of your education (hours and activity name).

At the end of every quarter, complete the online Master Naturalist Report.