(Photo caption, Left to Right: Bob Shelby: current Master Naturalist, Davonne Long, Andrea Karina Gutierrez Estepa, Jill Wilkinson, Bridgett Jensen, Leann Myers, Jackson Eyer, Donna Zwilling, David Lane, Katie Bell: Local Food Systems and Small Farms Educator, Bryan Wright)
Nine participants have graduated from the first-ever local Master Naturalist training program offered by University of Illinois Extension serving Edwards, Lawrence, Richland, Wabash, and Wayne counties.
The graduation ceremony was held Tuesday, November 10th, at the Wabash County Extension Office, marking a milestone for the five-county Extension unit.
The Master Naturalist program trains volunteers to promote natural resource and wildlife conservation through educational programs, community partnerships, and service projects.
Although University of Illinois Extension established the statewide program in 2005 and 2006, this fall marked the first time the training had been offered locally.
Over a 10-week period, participants completed 40 hours of training through online coursework, assignments, and in-person field trips.
Katie Bell, local food systems and small farms educator, facilitated the training and praised the inaugural class for its dedication and enthusiasm.
Bell said each participant brought something special to the group and expressed pride in the skills they developed throughout the program.
Seven of the nine graduates have committed to continuing as Master Naturalist interns, the next step toward becoming certified volunteers.
Once certified, Master Naturalists must complete 30 hours of volunteer service and 10 hours of continuing education annually to maintain their status.
Bell also thanked the staff at Beall Woods State Park for their support, along with current Master Naturalists Bob Shelby and Brooke Hubbard, who shared their knowledge and expertise with participants.
Extension officials say they look forward to seeing the new volunteers become involved in conservation and educational efforts throughout the five-county area.