The University of Illinois Extension will offer horticulture and naturalist education courses in September and October for anyone interested in learning more about conservation and to become stewards, advocates and teachers to support the natural environment.
Central Illinois is full of magnificent natural areas and rich horticultural sites—from large public parks, wildlife sanctuaries and rivers to small backyard spaces and community gardens. They represent an amazing natural diversity that enriches our area socially, economically, and in countless other ways such as improved health and well-being. We learn more about these areas all the time as scientists and researchers study them closely and residents nurture and protect them.
The Horticulture Core Education and Naturalist Core Education programs are open to area residents who are interested in acquiring research-based knowledge to better understand and nurture our natural resources. Provided by the Fulton-Mason-Peoria-Tazewell Extension Unit, the courses are also for those who may be interested in becoming volunteers in the Extension Master Naturalist (EMN) program by completing a short skills training course in the spring of 2020.
Both courses will be offered through September and October and are taught by U of I Extension educators who are actively involved in research, education and conservation. For more information, visit extension.illinois.edu/fmpt or call (309) 347-6614 (for Horticulture Core Education) or (309) 547-3711 (for Naturalist Core Education). PM
