Thank you for your interest in the Master Naturalist program.
Your path to becoming a Missouri Master Naturalist begins with a few crucial steps.
Let us know your interest. Send an email to osagetrailstraining@gmail.com to let us know your interest and we will email you when dates for the information session are set.
Attend orientation. Our chapter will host a no-commitment in-person orientation and information in June of 2026. Join us to better understand our program, meet with volunteers, and ask questions. Our goal is to ensure you have a solid understanding of our chapter, goals and training requirements before submitting an application.
Submit an application. Applications will be available at orientation and will be accepted between the orientation and early July. After that, we will follow up individually for next steps. Please note that class size is limited to 30 students and most years we have more applicants than openings. Previous volunteer experience ranks high in our evaluation, see the partner page for a list of organizations you might volunteer at during the time before applying.
Attend training. Training runs from August-November, every Tuesday night. Training is typically in-person from 5:30pm-8:30pm. Trainees must attend two Saturday field trips. Many different topics and locations are available.
After training. After you complete your 40+ hours of training, you will need to complete 40 hours of volunteer activities (which will also include an 8-10 hour capstone project) and 8 hours of advanced training to become certified as a Master Naturalist.