We work with over 45 partner organizations that deliver the course and have certified a community of over 2800 Naturalists around the state who have, in turn, volunteered over 175,000 hours in service to nature in the areas of education and interpretation, stewardship, citizen science, and environmental program support.
Courses combine classroom and field experience in science, problem-solving, communication training and community service. Students are taught by an instructor and team of experts who are affiliated with a local nature-based center or natural resource focused agency. Upon completing certification requirements, participants are eligible for four academic credits through UC Davis Extension for an additional nominal fee.
- ecology
- geology
- plant communities
- forest/woodland and range resources and management
- wildlife
- communication and interpretation
- citizen science
- energy and global environmental issues
- and more..
In addition to the course, California Naturalists will be encouraged to complete 40 hours of volunteer service in one of four areas: program support, interpretation/education, restoration/conservation and/or citizen science. Yearly incentives are offered for volunteers that log their hours.