UNCE: Become a Nevada Naturalist

Nevada Naturalist, a Cooperative Extension program, is looking for interested adults to participate. The Nevada Naturalist program educates and trains adults interested in learning about the natural resources in southern Nevada. Participants study natural resources, environmental education and interpretation, laws and regulations, and environmental issues.

The focus of the program is to give a broad understanding of nature to participants interested in learning, volunteering, teaching, and participating in conservation projects and issues. The program will also give participants the skills and confidence necessary to make a difference for environmental stewardship and conservation in Southern Nevada.

The Nevada Naturalist program offers two semesters of instruction. Topics include: ecology, regional plants and animals, invasive species, geology and soils, environmental laws, taxonomy, biological diversity, and more. Classes are held in the spring and fall in a variety of settings including classrooms, museums and in the field. Additionally, students complete a project intended to increase their capacity and knowledge about specific issues that interest them. Participants receive a certificate following the completion of the course and their projects.

The program is open to individuals of all backgrounds. The spring semester begins April 2, 2012. The cost is $125 per semester. For more information on this program, or to register, please email Denise Parsons or call 702-948-5906. Session two will be offered in the fall of 2012.

The Nevada Naturalist Program is sponsored and coordinated by Cooperative Extension. The program capitalizes on the incredible expertise of individuals and organizations in Southern Nevada who are partners and participating instructors.

Along with University of Nevada Cooperative Extension, participating partners include: Southern Nevada Water Authority, Nevada Division of Forestry, UNLV Public Lands Institute, The Henderson Bird Preserve, The Springs Preserve, Red Rock Conservation Area, Nevada State Museum, Las Vegas Museum of Natural History and the National Park Service.