Metro's Nature University is a 12-week training course that starts people along the path of becoming naturalists and teachers. Students are introduced to time-honored techniques of nature observation and principles of discovery learning, and learn about common wildlife and plants, the ecology of wetlands and ancient forests, and effective teaching techniques.

Experienced naturalists take students into the field to learn how to recognize animal tracks and signs, bird sounds and much more. Students 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, students receive the training needed to become a qualified and confident Metro volunteer naturalist.

Every year, thousands of children and adults visit Metro’s parks and natural areas on school field trips and for summer programs. Volunteer naturalists, like Nature University graduates, make these wonderful experiences possible by helping Metro 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. Students learn the specifics of leading school field trips by shadowing programs led by experienced volunteer naturalists in two locations: Smith and Bybee Wetlands Natural Area and Oxbow Regional Park.

Free training and resources include:

• first Aid/CPR training
• opportunities for continuing education and training on various natural history topics
• fees waived for attending Metro classes
• annual Metro park pass ($40 value)
• on-going guidance and support from Metro staff naturalists.

Visit Metro's GreenScene website
Download the Nature University 2012 application (PDF)
Download the Nature University course catalog (PDF)
Learn about Metro Parks and Natural areas