Johnson County K-State Research and Extension is starting a program to train residents about wildlife, conservation, forestry and habitat restoration.

The Kansas Master Naturalist program trains volunteers to “provide expertise and services for natural resource projects that benefit Kansas,” according to a statement. “The mission of KMN is to develop knowledgeable and dedicated citizens who are active in promoting awareness, understanding and stewardship of the natural heritage of Kansas.”

Weekly classes begin in February and will continue each Thursday through mid April. Two Saturday field trips also are required. The sessions will be held at the Johnson County Extension office, 11811 S. Sunset Drive, Olathe. Applications are available online at www.johnson.ksu.edu/kmn. Or contact Dan Lekie at 913-715-7012 or Dan.lekie@jocogov.org.

The program had a pilot class in 2011 in Wichita and trained 26 participants. Volunteer projects included river bank restoration, guiding hikes, prairie restoration, stream and wildlife surveys, trail building and maintenance, and environmental education programs for youth and adults.

| The Star