Arboretum program combines online, in-person learning

The Morton Arboretum is now offering its Woodland Stewardship Program, a series of courses that combine online and in-person learning in a new blended format that provides a convenient and flexible alternative for nature advocates with busy schedules.

The Woodland Stewardship Program is a highly regarded training and certification program in natural areas restoration. In the program, online learning is now brought together with classroom and hands-on fieldwork at the arboretum, providing participants with in-depth training in the theory and practice of natural areas restoration.

"By offering classes online and in-person, learners get the best of both worlds - convenient classes that put information at their fingertips and hands-on learning in the arboretum's woods and other spaces," said Megan Dunning, manager of adult learning programs.

"We know that everyone leads busy lives, so we're thrilled to be able to offer flexible learning, enabling even more nature advocates to learn on their own schedules."

The summer program of classes is now open for registration at mortonarb.org/ed-stewardship. Highlights include Introduction to Ecological Restoration, Plants of the Prairie, Wetland Ecology, and Volunteer Leadership, among other courses.

The arboretum will offer a free online orientation about the Woodland Stewardship Program Friday, June 2. Attendees will have the opportunity to discuss the education and volunteer aspects of the program, explore how to navigate online resources, and receive information on how to help make a difference in local woodlands, prairies, and wetlands.

The Woodland Stewardship Program is open to anyone involved or interested in nature stewardship, regardless of prior experience. Taught by leading experts from the arboretum as well as naturalists, ecologists and restoration practitioners from across the region, classes cover plant identification and ecology, the fundamentals of ecological restoration, and invasive species management, among other topics.

These courses will equip participants to plan and implement restoration work at a volunteer site, for work, or in their own community. Participants can also pursue a Woodland Stewardship Program Certificate, which requires 10 classes, first aid and CPR certification, and completion of 30 volunteer hours.