The Wisconsin Master Naturalist program is a network of well-informed volunteers dedicated to conservation service, leadership, and lifelong learning. The Master Naturalist training provides 40 hours of education in a variety of natural history topics and Master Naturalist service areas. Through expert-led trainings, Master Naturalists are equipped to address challenges facing the state by making positive impacts through stewardship, citizen science, and educational activities. Trainings have an emphasis on outdoor field experiences with some classroom instruction and are taught by professional natural resources educators and scientists. Once trained, Wisconsin Master Naturalists record 40 hours of service and 8 hours of advanced training each year to maintain certification and receive a recognition pin.
Registration opens January 13th on the Master Naturalist Website: https://wimasternaturalist.org/training/volunteer-training/uphamwoods2025/
Description
Upham Woods Outdoor Learning Center located near the Wisconsin Dells will become a river classroom as participants become certified Master Naturalists. Upham Woods is located on 318 acres of forested land, including a 210-acre state natural area called Blackhawk Island. Explore the special features of this site from old-growth oak forests to unique geology to historical sites. A wealth of guest experts will explore Master Naturalist topics through three complementary focal points: learning through place-based experiential education, a focus on land stewardship by developing our personal conservation ethics, and opportunities to give service in diverse areas including youth education, conservation work, and outdoor recreation. Accessibility is at the forefront of what we do so all activities will be designed with your access needs in mind but traditionally there are several 1-3 mile hikes over uneven terrain throughout the training. Other activities include investigating macro-invertebrates living in the river, connecting with other local conservation institutions like Aldo Leopold Foundation and Mirror Lake State Park Friends Group, and connecting to the land and Ho-Chunk Culture with a facilitated traditional art project.Participants are responsible for their own transportation or coordinating ride shares to field locations.
Schedule
Wednesday, September 10th, 2025: 8:30 am – 4:30 pm
Thursday, September 11th, 2025: 8:00 am – 4:00 pm
Friday, September 12th, 2025: 8:30 am – 4:30 pm
Thursday, September 18th, 2025: 8:30 am – 4:30 pm
Friday, September 19th, 2025: 8:30 am – 4:30 pm
Saturday, September 20th, 2025: 8:30 am – 1:30 pm
Questions?
info@wimasternaturalist.org
(608) 262-0020