Wisconsin Master Naturalist Program
Supported through the University of Wisconsin–Madison Division of Extension, the Master Naturalist program promotes awareness, understanding, and stewardship of the natural environment by developing a network of well-informed volunteers dedicated to conservation service within their communities. To become a Master Naturalist, individuals complete 40 hours of expert-led training at locations across the state. Equipped with new knowledge, experiences, and connections, Master Naturalists then go on to serve by volunteering in stewardship, citizen science, and education efforts in Wisconsin and continue their learning through advanced trainings.
Outcomes
There are trained Master Naturalists providing volunteer service in all of Wisconsin's 72 counties. In the first ten years of the program (2013-2022), Master Naturalists have reported 227,198 volunteer hours provided to over 1,000 organizations. This represents $6.8 million of conservation service benefiting Wisconsin's natural world. In addition, more than 1 million individuals have been reached through educational programming supported by Master Naturalists.
Focus Areas
Project Leader
Becky Sapper
Outreach Program Manager
- Department/Unit
- Natural Resources Institute
- School or College
- Divison of Extension