Volunteer to be a certified naturalist with Kane County program

Learn about Kane County's fastest-growing, nature education program for adults - the Kane County Certified Naturalist program.

Attend a free informational session to find out what all the excitement is about. During these informational sessions, you'll learn the dates, details, cost - and the benefits - of this award-winning program.

The first informational session will be 7 to 8 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 30, at Hickory Knolls Discovery Center, 3795 Campton Hills Drive, St. Charles. The second informational session will be 10 to 11 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 2, at Creek Bend Nature Center, 37W700 Dean St., St. Charles.

Students must complete six core classes, three field trips and 30 hours of advanced coursework and/or volunteer work to earn initial Certified Naturalist certification. This program provides opportunities to develop, lead and participate in conservation initiatives. Volunteering is strongly encouraged for all participants. Continuing education training courses will be offered annually to maintain certification and to further knowledge and skills. Classes begin in January, followed by spring field trips.

The mission of Kane County Certified Naturalist program is to promote awareness and citizen stewardship of Kane County's natural resources through science-based education and community service. It is a cooperative program of the Forest Preserve District of Kane County, the St. Charles Park District and the Geneva Park District.

For more information on this program, call (630) 444-3190 or email programs@kaneforest.com.

To view the full roster of forest preserve district nature programs, visit www.kaneforest.com. Follow them on Facebook or Twitter.