The Iowa Master Conservationist Program gives Iowans hands-on interaction with the diversity of Iowa’s natural resources. The program teaches about wildlife and plant communities, and provides accurate information on a broad range of conservation issues. Ultimately, it provides individuals the resources to make informed, intelligent choices for a sustainable lifestyle. “Mastering” is a journey, and this course is the first step.
People are welcome from all backgrounds and ages. Participants are Iowans who share an interest in preserving Iowa’s natural resources, and a willingness to learn how they can contribute to their community and their environment.
The experience is unique and adaptable for each individual. Participants receive at least 32 hours of indoor and outdoor hands-on education led by trained professionals in various natural resource fields. Each session provides information and hands-on experiences on topics including:
- physical environment
- ecological principles and techniques
- wildlife diversity
- woodlands
- prairies and grasslands
- wetlands and waterways
- sustainable agriculture and land use, and
- energy use and waste reduction.
The range of topics provides information that can be useful in service to the community and in individuals' own backyards
The Master Conservationist Program is about applying what is learned to the everyday. Each participant is asked to contribute at least 32 hours of volunteer service upon completion of the course. Previous activities have included prairie planting and seed harvesting, water quality testing, wildlife monitoring, staffing conservation centers, and conducting educational programs for youth and adults. Once a participant has completed both the course and volunteer service, they become a Master Conservationist. For more information about the MCP, please check out the Main Iowa Master Conservationist Website
If you have any questions about this program, you may contact Mary Clancy at (515) 432-3882 or clancy@iastate.edu
Educational Opportunities:
Whiterock Conservancy - Public Art for Rural Communities
Volunteer Opportunities:
Prairie Resource Center
Don Williams Watershed Project
IOWATER - Volunteer Water Quality Monitoring
Keep Boone County Beautiful
ds
2/3/2012