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Nature University

Volunteer  ›  Nature University

Learn how to help children and adults discover nature by enrolling in Metro's unique and intensive naturalist training program.

What is Nature University?

Nature University is a 12-session training course that starts people along the path of becoming naturalists and teachers. Nature University students are introduced to time-honored techniques of nature observation and principles of discovery learning. Students learn about common wildlife and plants, the ecology of wetlands and ancient forests, and effective teaching techniques. Student naturalists go into the field with experienced naturalists to learn how to recognize animal tracks and signs, bird sounds and much more. Learn the importance of careful observation and the use of field guides, skills that can be applied in a lifelong process of learning and sharing with others.

No special experience is required but a background in natural history and biology and working with groups is helpful. At Nature University, you receive the training needed to become a qualified and confident Metro volunteer naturalist.

Note: Because Metro receives more applications than there are spaces available in Nature University, not all applicants can be accepted.

Why have a Nature University?

Every year thousands of children and adults visit Metro’s parks and natural areas on school field trips and for summer programs. Volunteer naturalists make these wonderful experiences possible by helping Metro staff naturalists lead these activities and programs.

If you love nature, enjoy working with children and have access to personal transportation, consider becoming a volunteer naturalist by attending Nature University.

Schedule

Nature University classes meet from 9:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Tuesdays, starting the last Tuesday in January and running through mid-April. Classes meet at different locations. There is some homework between class meetings.

Free training and resources

• Nature University course and training notebook
• First Aid/CPR training
• Opportunities for continuing education and training on various natural history topics
• Fees waived for Metro classes
• Annual Metro park pass
• On-going guidance and support from Metro staff naturalists.

Download the Nature University course catalog

Time commitment and requirements

• A passion and curiosity about the outdoors and a desire to deepen children’s connection to nature
• A commitment to provide a minimum of 40 hours of service after graduating
• Ability to help with school field trips in the fall and spring, and some weekdays or weekends in the summer
• Strong interpersonal skills and judgment
• Reliable transportation.

Download the Nature University volunteer naturalist position description

Catalog and application

• Nature University course catalog 420K Adobe Acrobat PDF | Published July 19, 2011
• Nature University volunteer naturalist position description 178K Adobe Acrobat PDF | Published July 12, 2011
• 2012 Nature University application, fillable MS Word document 55K MS Word | Published November 18, 2011
• 2012 Nature University application, PDF form 32K Adobe Acrobat PDF | Published November 18, 2011

Related Links

Getting to know the nature of the region – one spot at a time

Looking for a new way to experience nature in this neck of the woods? Consider a simple practice known as “The Secret Spot” taught to Metro's Nature University students each year.