Become a Nebraska Master Naturalist!

2026 Dates and Locations

Spring Core 24: April 10th-11th & 17th-18th, Schramm Ed Center, Gretna, Ne

Complete Training: June 7th-13th, Cedar Point Biological Station, Ogallala, Ne

Complete Training: July 12th-18th, Niobrara Valley Preserve, Johnstown, Ne

Training format descriptions can be found HERE.

Application Process

Step 1. Complete the application below.

Step 2. After you complete the application, we will contact you to set up a follow-up Zoom or phone interview.

Step 3. After the interview you will be directed to complete a liability release and background check. Background check must be completed to secure your spot in the training class.

Course fee: Course Fees cover the cost of hosting the training. Core 24 Trainings $200, Complete Trainings $500. After your interview a link for course payment will be shared via email.

Applicant Contact Information

First Name (Required)

Last Name (Required)

Name as you wish it to appear on your nametag and certificate. (Required)

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Country

Address Line 1 *

City *

State/Province *

Postal Code *

Phone (Required)

Cell Phone (If Different)

Email (Required)

Date of Birth

Month

Day

Year

Background Information

Which 2026 Training Would You Like To Register For?

April Core 24 Training
June Complete Training
July Complete Training

Please tell us why you are interested in becoming a Nebraska Master Naturalist. (Required)

What do you hope to gain from this experience? (Required)

How did you learn about the Master Naturalist Program

Current or former occupation

Education (Formal and Informal. Note: no previous experience is required.)

Professional experience (including Research, Mentor, Technician, Naturalist, Outreach, or Educator experience).

Related experience, hobbies, or skills that might be relevant to the Master Naturalist program i.e. fundraising, Teaching, computer skills, bird watching, photography etc. (Required)

Related group affiliations and certifications (i.e. Certified Hunter Education Instructor, member of National Association for Interpretation, Project Wild workshop, etc.).

Volunteer Experience

Have you volunteered in Nebraska before?

Please list organizations and locations where you volunteer (if applicable).

Additional Information

If there is anything you may need in order to participate in our training, we will do our best to accommodate these needs. Please make a note below if you would like to be contacted regarding available accommodations.

Additional questions & comments

Nebraska Master Naturalist Program Agreement - Click to Read

Nebraska Master Naturalist Program Agreement - Click to Read

NEBRASKA MASTER NATURALIST PROGRAM AGREEMENT

*I understand that in order to be accepted into the Nebraska Master Naturalist training, I must participate in an introductory interview, pay a registration fee, and complete a successful background check.

I understand that, to officially certify as a Nebraska Master Naturalist, I must first complete 24 hours of Core (Tier 1) Training. This initial instruction prepares me to begin volunteering as a “Naturalist-in-Training.” Within one calendar year from your initial training, I must complete 20 hours of volunteer service and an additional 36 hours of Core Plus (Tier 2) Training. My certification is complete and valid for 12 months, once I have fulfilled these requirements.

To maintain my certification, each year I am expected to complete a minimum of 20 hours of volunteer service, to complete at least 8 hours of continuing education, and to pay an annual membership fee.

I further understand that I will receive no financial compensation or benefits for assistance related to the Nebraska Master Naturalist program in any capacity. I agree to behave respectfully toward the program, staff, partners, and sponsoring agencies and also agree to conduct myself according to the Code of Ethics and Standards of Conduct provided to me at the training. If I do not meet these requirements, my certification may be revoked.

Upon completion of training I will be welcomed into the Nebraska Master Naturalist community, and will endeavor to be an active participant in this community.

Acceptance into the program is contingent upon a successful background check, and a successful interview. As well as signature or UNL Liability Release Waiver for your participation as a Nebraska Master Naturalist.

DISCLAIMER: A conviction record is not an automatic denial of admission into the Nebraska Master Naturalist program. Each case is considered individually. The UNIVERSITY OF NEBRASKA is NOT RESPONSIBLE for any injury or loss of property to any person suffered while traveling with or participating in the Nebraska Master Naturalist Program and affiliated activities for any reason whatsoever, including ordinary negligence.

By checking this box, I verify that I have read, understand, and agree to the Master Naturalist Program Agreement. I accept this agreement with the Nebraska Master Naturalist Program.