Our aim: to build a network of stewards dedicated to learning about and working to protect Oklahoma’s natural diversity. Successful members of the program will become well-informed volunteers who educate others, become community conservation leaders, and participate in continued service for Oklahoma’s natural resources.
The Oklahoma BioDiversity Steward Program is a science-based education and conservation program that includes hands-on learning, volunteer, and services opportunities.
Participants in the program will gain a broad understanding of the biodiversity in the state and be catalyzed for an action-oriented approach through a variety of formats that fit the schedule and lifestyle of the participant. The program is organized so that participants can complete all the requirements within a year, but there is no time limit and completion is adaptable to the participant’s life.
Anyone that has an interest in learning more about Oklahoma’s BioDiversity and helping to protect and conserve that natural diversity. No prior knowledge or experience necessary. The program is flexible with no deadline or required attendance to specific meetings or events. The program has been developed for adults, but we feel it is also suitable for motivated middle and high school students, as well as college students!
For children in elementary school and younger, we will suggest starting with the Oklahoma State Parks Passport program or the National Park Service Junior Ranger program.
We request a $25 donation when you sign up and when you complete the program.
However, we will not allow fees to be a barrier to participation. You may pay what you are able.
Use iNaturalist to make observations of at least 80 species.
Use eBird to make observations of at least 20 species.
Attend or watch at least three Oklahoma Biological Survey webinars or virtual field trips.
(Recordings are on our YouTube Channel.)
Attend or watch two webinars hosted by other wildlife, conservation, or nature organizations (see list below).
Listen to at least four BioBlitz! OK podcast episodes (recordings can be found here).
Attend two educational events held by the Oklahoma Biological Survey or other wildlife, conservation, or nature organization. These would include events such as field days, workshops, conferences, or trainings.
Volunteer for one service project with the Oklahoma Biological Survey or other organization. This can be any variety of volunteer opportunities.
Participate in another Community (Citizen) Science Project related to biodiversity.
Suggested projects include, but are not limited to:
Project ideas should be submitted before completion to be sure they meet the intended principles of the program.
Choose one of the following:
Some of the organizations in Oklahoma that provide learning opportunities, field trips, technical trainings, webinars, or other events:
Oklahoma Chapter of The Nature Conservancy
Oklahoma Chapters of the Audubon Society
Oklahoma Chapters of the Sierra Club
Oklahoma Conservation Commission
Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation
Oklahoma Herpetological Society
Oklahoma Invasive Plant Council
Oklahoma Ornithological Society
Oklahoma State University Extension
There are also many local organizations, nature centers, and clubs that provide opportunities!
You can find an extensive calendar of environmental events at the Environmentor website.
Steward Certification. PDF