Contact Us

Margaret Larson
County Extension Director
University of Illinois Extension
Highland Community College, Bldg R
2998 W Pearl City Rd
Freeport, IL 61032
Phone: 815-235-4125
FAX: 815-232-9006
mklarson@illinois.edu

Maggie Guenzler
Program Coordinator (Jo Daviess County)
University of Illinois Extension
204 Vine, PO Box 600
Elizabeth, IL 61028
Phone: 815-858-2273
FAX: 815-858-2274
guenzler@illinois.edu

Jo Daviess Master Naturalists

Jo Daviess Master Naturalists

University of Illinois Extension's Northwest Illinois Master Naturalist Program is designed for adults of any age that desire the opportunity to learn about and positively impact our local environment.

The goal of the program is not to teach you "everything there is to know" about the subjects being covered, but to give you an engaging exposure to the natural world--one that encourages you to seek out lifelong learning opportunities to further your development as a naturalist.

Master Naturalist Program participants have the opportunity to:

  • learn about Northern Illinois' natural history, ecosystems, plant and animal communities and environmental issues,
  • enhance your love of nature through hands-on training and community-based service,
  • practice lifelong learning and sharing,
  • interact and build relationships with new acquaintances with similar interests,
  • give something back to nature and your local community,
  • and learn from and work side-by-side with experts.

Master Naturalists agree to complete 40 hours of field and classroom learning and 60 hours volunteer service within two years to become a Certified Master Naturalist. To remain active in the program, an additional 30 hours volunteer service and 10 hours of continuing education must be performed yearly.

Summer Training:

The Northwest Illinois Master Naturalist 2013 training for Jo Daviess County will be held on Tuesday mornings from 8:30am - 12:30pm between June 11th and August 13th. Locations will be varied throughout the county (a specific schedule will be sent to you after registration). There will be a classroom portion and a field portion, so moderate hiking/climbing skills are essential.

If you have any questions or wish to register, contact Program Coordinator Maggie Guenzler at guenzler@illinois.edu or (815) 858-2273. or click here: https://webs.extension.uiuc.edu/registration/default.cfm?RegistrationID=8309&preview=yes

Attention Teachers:

The Master Naturalist Program is eligible for CPDU credits.