Natural Areas Longer Term Volunteer Opportunities

Master Naturalists
Master Naturalists are highly trained volunteer educators who share their knowledge and experience with the public. As a Master Naturalist you will experience beautiful natural areas while you learn how to lead fun, hands-on field trips. An intensive training session of 50 hours is offered each spring. Fifty hours of volunteer service are required within 2 years of training. Interested? Read the job description. The next training will be in the spring of 2013. Learn more from Outreach and Education Coordinator, Sue Kenney at or call 970-224-6118.

To Request a Presentation by a Master Naturalist
Would you like to invite a volunteer Master Naturalist to work with your group? Contact Deborah Price, , 970-217-3075 or Susan Schafer, 970-416-2480.

Master Naturalist Assistant
Master Naturalist Assistants (MNA) serve as an important aid to volunteer Master Naturalists (see above for description) by lending a helpful hand to all aspects of leading a field trip or activity for the public. As a MNA, you will assist with group management, props and activities. It's a great way to make a difference and meet other interested volunteers. Full description here.
The 2012 training is free and it is coming soon: Wednesday, May 9, 9:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. and Friday, May 11, 9:00 a.m.- 2:00 p.m. You must attend both days. Class size is limited for this popular program. A background check is required. Are you ready to apply? Online application for the 2012 class. The MNA application deadline is May 3. If you are interested in being contacted when the 2013 training is scheduled, please email Sue Kenney at or call 970-224-6118.

Adopt a Natural Area
Take an active role in the stewardship of natural areas by doing monthly litter clean-ups. A great way to work outside and get to know a natural area! Time Commitment: Flexible, visit your natural area once each month. Full job description. Ready to get started? Apply on-line here! Or use the pdf (print, fill in and send) form here. Contact Susan Schafer, , 970-416-2480.

Volunteer Ranger Assistants
Volunteer Ranger Assistants serve as a friendly face on the trail to greet visitors, promote safe outdoor recreation and assist rangers with many of their important tasks. Time Commitment: Training sessions are about 20 hours (generally two evenings and a Saturday). Trainings are offered once a year, in the winter. The volunteer schedule is flexible, 20 hours of volunteer service are required within 2 years of training. Read more about the Volunteer Ranger Assistant Program here >>>. Contact Susan Schafer, , 970-416-2480.

Rare Plant Survey
An informational meeting will be Saturday, April 14, 9-10 a.m. at the Natural Areas Department office, 1745 Hoffman Mill Road. You'll learn about local flora, training opportunities, and volunteer survey dates. Registration is required call 970-416-2815, or email

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