The Naturalist Certification Program was initiated by Morton Arboretum about 11 years ago, and the Chicago Field Office has been involved for the past 7 years. This program was developed to fulfill a need for adult education focused on the ecological concepts associated with natural areas management. 

In FY2006, Chicago's Environmental Education Specialist served as an instructor for the Fall, Winter, Spring, and Summer Field Ecology courses.  These courses involve 12 hours of contact time (over a period of 4 weeks) with the adult students, and each session includes a lecture, field exercise, and homework. 

A total of 68 adults participated in these courses this year.  Participants can receive college credit through the College of DuPage, and many of the participants become involved in local stewardship projects.