Become a Naturalist

Are you passionate about environmental education? Would you like to know more about the unique desert ecology that makes Sabino Canyon such a special place? Are you interested in desert plants and wildlife, native and natural history, aquatic life and geology?

Influence the future

Sabino Canyon Volunteer Naturalists interpret nature for children, school groups in grades K–6, adults, and families. We’re helping to influence the future while having fun!

We Train You

We train a new class of naturalists beginning in October of each year. Our 28-week program is taught by local experts on topics such as herpetology, birds, desert and riparian ecology, ancient peoples, and much more. Continuing education keeps a member’s knowledge base up-to-date.

Share what you’ve learned

Once trained, you’ll be asked to give one morning a week, October through April, to one of our programs.

Join Us

We are now accepting applications for our 2025-2026 training program!

Please read the following overview of what’s involved in becoming a Sabino Canyon Volunteer Naturalist.

Overview of Our Training Program

Have a Question?

If, after reading our overview, you would like to help us educate children about this unique riparian environment in the Sonoran Desert, please complete the following form.

APPLY NOW!

Thank you for your interest!

Watch this brief introduction to SCVN.