Become a Volunteer Naturalist

• Applications for the 2026 cohort now open through through Feb 2, 2026! 

• Be interested in learning about nature, sharing your love for nature, and becoming a part of a community of amateur naturalists. 

• Complete the application. Participants will be notified of acceptance by early February 2026.

• Pay the training fee of $80 upon acceptance. This is due by the second class session. 

• Complete the approved training program of at least 40 hours of combined classroom and field instruction.

  • • Classes will meet via Zoom on Tuesday nights starting the first week of March and will run through the end of May. 

    • During the course, participants will maintain and submit weekly journal entries. 

    • Participants will also attend field trips by the end of the training year (locations TBD; multiple trips offered statewide).

  • Pass a background check upon completion of the class.

Questions? Please contact admin@sdvolunteernaturalists.org