Basic Training Course Schedule

Wyoming Naturalist trainees will receive online instruction on various natural history topics pertinent to Wyoming, as well as nature journaling and outdoor education and interpretation (see tentative schedule below). Classes are taught by professionals from Audubon Rockies, University of Wyoming, and other partner organizations.

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Classes meet online on Wednesday evenings for 14-16 weeks, beginning on the first Wednesday of February**. Each virtual class meets from 6 – 8 p.m. Participants are expected to attend all classes and to complete additional assignments between meetings. Most participants report spending a maximum of four hours per week on assignments outside of class. The final class is an in-person field experience near Lander on the third weekend in May. Attendance at the in-person field experience is required to complete the basic training course. Details are available in the Volunteer Handbook and Policy Guidelines.

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As part of the basic training course, participants have the option to complete a capstone project. Completion of the capstone project is not a required component of the basic training, but the time spent completing the capstone project will count towards the required 40 hours of volunteer service that is necessary to achieve certification.

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The registration fee for the basic training is $200. Reduced fees are available for those experiencing financial hardship. Registration fees will be due after acceptance into the program.

Mark your calendars now for the Annual Meeting of the Wyoming Naturalist Program! The Annual Meeting is tentatively scheduled for September 18th - 20th, 2026, in Casper and is open to all in the WNP. The agenda for each year's annual meeting will include a service project, advanced training, and cross-cohort socialization.

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