What is the Master Naturalist Program?

The Indiana Master Naturalist program can provide you with many hands-on opportunities to learn about our Hoosier natural resources. It also provides a way for you to share that knowledge, along with your life experiences, through volunteer service.

Our Purpose:

• Provide an introduction to Hoosier natural resources through the eyes of resource professionals and experts in the field
• Provide an educational opportunity to individuals 18 years or older
• Provide an opportunity for class participants to establish a short or long-term partnership with a natural resources agency or a local organization involved in natural resource management by volunteering as part of the class
• Provide a financially self-supporting program

Who we are:

The Indiana Master Naturalist program is governed by an advisory council with participation from the Indiana Department of Natural Resources, Purdue Cooperative Extension Service, Resource Conservation and Development Councils, Soil and Water Conservation Districts, City and/or County Park Departments and Indiana Master Naturalist Alumni. The advisory council approves workshops offered, establishes program policies and generally oversees the program statewide.

IMN Advisory Council Members:

• Ginger Murphy, IDNR Division of State Parks and Reservoirs
• Cindy Newkirk, Hancock County Soil and Water Conservation District
• Becky Pfeifer, Purdue Cooperative Extension Service, Hancock County
• Frank Rouse, Naturalist, Indianapolis Parks and Recreation
• Amy Thompson, Purdue Cooperative Extension Service, Monroe County
• Natalie Haley, Allen County Parks and Recreation
• Doug Cox, IMN alumni
• Mary Davis, IMN alumni
• Mary Cutler, Naturalist, Tippecanoe County Parks

IMN Advisory Council Bylaws