OCVN Education Course
Course overview
As an Ohio Certified Volunteer Naturalist, you will be part of a dedicated community of lifelong learners. The first step in the journey is to complete the 40-hour education course at an approved location. View a list of our locations.
The basis for this continuing education course is the OCVN Handbook. The handbook is typically included with course fees, but check with your local host. If needed, you can order it through OSU Extension Publishing.
The course is designed to help you build your 21st century naturalist skills, grow your knowledge of Ohio's diverse ecology and natural resources and practice your field skills. You will feel more confident to contribute as a volunteer with your local park or non-profit organization in one of the following categories: program support, education and outreach, community science and land stewardship.
Course goals
After completing this course, participants will be able to:
- Describe key elements of Ohio's environment (e.g., major habitats) and the state's importance to global conservation of flora and fauna;
- Participate in community science and stewardship efforts in Ohio that will increase scientific understanding and conservation of Ohio's environment and natural resources;
- Communicate about Ohio's environment and natural resources using best practices;
- Participate effectively in program support efforts including serving on committees and boards.
Course session topics
Your course includes sessions in the classroom and field on:
- Being a 21st century naturalist
- Birds
- Geology
- Climate and weather
- Water resources
- Soils, plants, and fungi
- Forests
- Insects
- Reptiles and Amphibians
Your course instructors will include state and regional experts as well as experienced volunteers.
Handbook
While each course offering is unique the OCVN Handbook forms the basis of the state-wide curriculum.
The Ohio Certified Volunteer Naturalist Handbook, a required text for anyone trained in the OCVN program, is a rich resource for those involved in natural resources education and those who simply want to appreciate the rich variety of Ohio’s natural world. The handbook offers information that includes location, habitat, and life cycle; observation advice; conservation and education tips; and community science ideas. Plenty of images, diagrams, and maps will help you contribute to your local park as a volunteer or effectively care for your own backyard. Experts from The Ohio State University’s School of Environment and Natural Resources, Ohio State Extension, Ohio State Byrd Polar and Climate Research Center, and the Ohio Department of Natural Resources will help readers gain insights into Ohio’s various natural systems and how they work together in creating the state’s environment.