Please note: New enrollment in the N-ACT certificate pathway is paused. Current participants may continue completing certificate requirements, and individual courses remain available for registration. Please direct questions to conservationtraining@mortonarb.org.
Gain the knowledge, skills, and practical experience to turn your passion for the environment into action! The Natural Areas Conservation Training (N-ACT) Program is an in-depth training and certification program in natural areas restoration. You’ll be equipped to plan and implement restoration work at a volunteer site, for work, or in your own backyard.
With courses on plant identification and ecology, fundamentals of ecological restoration, invasive species management, and applied topics, the N-ACT program prepares participants to care for natural areas including woodlands, prairies, wetlands, and other habitats of the Chicago region.
Natural Areas Conservation Training Courses
Please note: New enrollment in the N-ACT certificate pathway is paused.
Natural Areas Conservation Training classes are easy to fit into a busy lifestyle, and include online, classroom, and field components. Natural Areas Conservation Training is open to anyone involved or interested in the stewardship of our natural heritage, regardless of prior experience. You’ll make meaningful connections with like-minded people and learn from leading experts.
Natural Areas Conservation Training Certificate
Please note: New enrollment in the N-ACT certificate pathway is paused.
By obtaining the Natural Areas Conservation Training Certificate, you can acquire the skills and knowledge you need to conduct and manage restoration activities. Ten classes, First Aid/CPR certification, and completion of 30 volunteer hours are required to obtain the N-ACT Certificate.
Classes that contribute to N-ACT Certificate requirements are offered throughout the year, in a regular seasonal rotation.
View N-ACT certificate requirements.
Volunteer
Most natural areas management and restoration programs in the Chicago region depend on volunteers. The Morton Arboretum is no exception: we rely on volunteers to manage our 900 acres of natural areas. Once you enroll in the Natural Areas Conservation Training Program, you’ll be connected with the Arboretum’s volunteer office to see how you can make a difference.
See current natural areas volunteer opportunities.