Frequently Asked Questions
We know you've got questions. Now that you know've heard about us, get to know us better. Here are some answers that may help get you started on your way to becoming a Certified Master Naturalist. If you want to know more, just give us a call. We would love to hear from you!
What is the Nebraska Master Naturalist program?
The Nebraska Master Naturalist Program is an adult education program that combines indoor presentations and hands-on field experiences to train volunteers about Nebraska's natural resources. This training provides an introduction to a variety of natural science disciplines, putting you in charge of your experience, and preparing you to be a certified conservation volunteer. Each topic is taught by a natural resource professional who is an expert in their field. Please click here to see a list of the training topics.
What does it mean to be certified as a Master Naturalist?
As a certified Nebraska Master Naturalist you will: Learn directly from professionals who are working in the field; Experience hands-on science-based training; Network with people who share the same passion for the outdoors; Learn about natural resource careers; and Make a difference in the field of natural resources and your community through volunteering.
Who can become a Nebraska Master Naturalist?/ What kind of background do I need?/ What if I already know about some of the topics, should I still take the training?
Whether you are a natural resource professional, or haven’t taken a science class in years you can become a Nebraska Master Naturalist! Master Naturalists are landowners, teachers, professionals, guides, college students, parents, retirees, and role models. If you have an appetite for knowledge, want to give back to your community, posess a passion for nature, and are at least 18 years old then you can apply.
How can I become a Nebraska Master Naturalist?
Applications will be available online in March 2010 and can be submitted through the Nebraska Master Naturalist web site. If you prefer to be mailed a paper copy of the application please contact the Program Assistant, at 402-472-8689 or by e-mail at naturalist@unl.edu. After your application has been submitted you may be asked to schedule an interview. Be aware that space is limited to 16 participants per class. Applicants will be accepted on a first come first serve basis, and applications will be kept on file for future training classes.
Why is there an interview?
This certification requires a strong interest in nature, a dedication to life-long learning, and a significant time commitment. The interview process is a way for us to get to know you, to make sure you fully understand the program expectations, and to determine if it is a good fit for your schedule.
How much does it cost?
The certification costs $200 per student. This includes facility and speaker fees, some snacks,, all text materials, supplies, and a graduation banquet. If you are a professional and have an agency or organization covering your training costs, please contact us.
When will it start?
Summer 2010 NMN classes will be held June-October. The 2011 season will begin in March 2011. Specific dates are yet to be determined, and will be posted on the homepage, so check back often.
How long does the certification take?
You will participate in nearly sixty hours of in-depth training over the course of up to four months. Classes will be held one to two times a week. There will be a combination of weekday and weekend sessions. For the weekday sessions you will have a choice of either afternoon or evening sessions. They will last up to four hours. Saturday sessions will last between five and eight hours.
After your training is complete you must volunteer 20 hours in a habitat restoration project, youth mentoring program, environmental education program, as a citizen scientist, or other areas of interest in the natural resources field and then report this to the Nebraska Master Naturalist Program. Once your volunteer hours are complete you are officially a certified Nebraska Master Naturalist. You have one year from the conclusion of your training to complete the volunteer hours.
How long do I have to complete my hours?
Once you have completed your training, you will have one year to complete your 20 hours of volunteer service to the natural resource community. You must complete your hours to retain your certification.
How long does the certification last?
To maintain your certification as a Nebraska Master Naturalist, each year you submit a re-certification form, complete 20 hours of volunteer service in the natural resources field, participate in the volunteer community and continuing education opportunities, pass an annual background check, and pay a nominal fee.
Where will the trainings be located?
The 2011 season of classes will be held in the Omaha and Lincoln, and Grand Island and Kearney areas. Participants will be made aware of the training locations at the interview, and need to be prepared to drive to locations throughout these counties. A list of specific locations and directions will be provided as the training dates approach. Visit our website for upcoming program dates and locations.
Can I take this for credit?
If you are a professional wishing to take this as a professional training, please contact us and let us know. We will do our best to work with you so that you can attain your credits. If you wish to take this through the University of Nebrask-Lincoln, at this time it is possible to receive independent study credit.
Who teaches the classes?
Explore Nebraska alongside the experts! Nebraska's scientists, faculty, and natural resource professionals will guide you through the natural wonders of this state and teach you the skills you need to become a certified Nebraska Master Naturalist.
Where can I volunteer once I am certified?
Anywhere that uses highly qualified volunteers! As a certified Nebraska Master Naturalist you will be linked to volunteer opportunities throughout the state, universities, natural resource agencies, and non-profits. These opportunities will be provided to you through the Master Naturalist listserv, as well as available through our member program websites. If you have a specific place that you prefer to volunteer, let us know so that we can add them to our membership. Much of our communication is done via the internet at this time, however, we are willing to work with you. If you do not have an e-mail address, please contact us and we'll help you set one up.
What can I do as a Master Naturalist?
The opportunities are endless. They include habitat restoration on private or public land, citizen science (i.e. breeding bird surveys), environmental education at a nature center, volunteering in a park or zoo, eco-tourism, mentoring of youth hunter and anglers, and so much more. Visit our partner websites to view more natural resource volunteer opportunities.
Can my kids come too?
This is an adult educational experience. Admission into the training requires a successful background check. Only those who are 19 years old and up can attend. If you know a highly motivated student that is interested in the program, contact us at naturalist@unl.edu and we'll see what opportunities are available.
What if I have special needs, can I still take the training?
We have done our best to find facilities that will accommodate every participant. If you have a special need and want to find out more, contact us at 402-472-8689 or by e-mail at naturalist@unl.edu.
