An educational program designed for those interested in science-based ecosystem management principles and sharing this knowledge with others to help restore and conserve ecosystems throughout Michigan communities.

The Michigan Conservation Stewards Program (CSP) is an 8-week, hybrid educational program for adults who are enthusiastic about learning science-based ecosystem management principles and sharing this knowledge with others to help improve their local communities. Through this program, learners will learn essential strategies to understand and help restore and conserve ecosystems in Michigan communities. This program includes field experiences to explore area natural communities, online learning, and indoor classes held in unique places. Participants also put their learning into action by working directly with local conservation groups. Learning cohorts are instructed and organized by MSU Extension, Michigan Sea Grant, Michigan Natural Features Inventory, and/or a variety of local conservation organizations and experts.

Upcoming Program Offerings

  • Regional offerings of the Conservation Stewards Program will occur in fall of 2026 across the state. Locations/dates have yet to be announced. Sign up here to stay up to date on offerings in your area. 
  • There is a pilot offering of an extended version of the Conservation Stewards Program in the Capital Region (Ingham, Eaton, and Clinton counties) starting in February. Learn more here.

Fall Program Components

  • Weekly, Virtual Lessons
    • Online course content to review and complete on-your-own via the course website prior to each week's session.
  • Weekly, In-person Classes
    • Up to three hours of lecture and field instruction at various locations within your cohort's region.
    • 8 total sessions
  • 1-2 Saturday, In-person Field Days
    • Half-day field experiences at locations within your cohort's region. 
  • Capstone (Applied) Project related to restoring and conserving Michigan’s ecosystem, with guidance provided by local instructors

Program Topics

  • Foundations of Conservation
    • Ecological Foundations & Michigan Natural Communities
    • Michigan Conservation Heritage
    • Society & Conservation
  • Terrestrial, Wetland and Aquatic Ecosystems

Certification Requirements

  • Full attendance in weekly classes and field days
    • 2 excused absences are allowed.
  • Completion of weekly online content and 80% or above on all online quizzes
  • Completion of Capstone Project

Program Requirements

  • This program is for adults (18+) only.
  • An email address is required to participate in the program.
  • The weekly classes and field days will be at various locations within cohort learning regions.

View and Download the CSP Flyer

For decorative purposes.

Want to be notified of future offerings? Sign up to get an email alert.

Reporting Volunteer Hours

The Michigan Conservation Stewards Program no longer requires Conservation Stewards to complete and report their volunteer service or advanced training hours.

Existing Michigan Conservation Stewards who have previously completed the program are encouraged to continue submitting their volunteer service and advanced training hours monthly or annually to MSU Extension via this reporting form. Hours are due by December 31 of each calendar year.