Volunteer Naturalist

Application or Registration Deadline:	10/31/2024
Opportunity Type:	Ongoing Volunteer Opportunity
Department:	Parks & Open Space
Category:	Open Space, Environment, and Gardening
Time Commitment & Minimum Age:	Four programs in a calendar year. Must be at least 18 years of age.
Location:	Various locations including Boulder County parks, trails, schools, and libraries. Training takes place in Longmont.
Program Summary:	If you enjoy exploring and sharing the natural wonders of Boulder County with others, then consider becoming a Volunteer Naturalist with Boulder County Parks & Open Space! Volunteer Naturalists are trained and supported in developing and presenting indoor and outdoor interpretive programs on the natural history of Boulder County to participants of all ages. As a Volunteer Naturalist, you will work with fellow naturalists to create educational programs for the public, schools, and community groups with the aim of educating and inspiring participants to become stewards of open space and nature around them. This year we are especially looking for people interested in sharing nature with children, both on the trail and in schools.
Duties and Responsibilities:	Volunteer Naturalists work with each other to create and develop interpretive programs which include nature hikes, slideshows, and hands-on environmental education experiences for the public, schools, and community groups. Volunteer Naturalists are required to present four interpretive programs per year.
Qualifications and Requirements:	We are looking for people with a passion for nature, some knowledge of local natural history, and a strong desire to learn more and share their passion with others. Training classes take place on Fridays, Jan. 10 through March 14, 2025 from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. in Longmont. Participants must be at least 18 years old, agree to a background check, and attend all training sessions. Because many of our requested programs are scheduled Monday-Friday during daytime hours, applicants must have some ongoing weekday availability.
Training Dates and Information:	Volunteer Naturalist Training You must complete the required 10-week training program to become a Volunteer Naturalist. The training takes place on Fridays, Jan. 10 through March 14, from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. in Longmont. The training includes: Overview of the Boulder County Parks & Open Space department, including history, mission, and resource management. Interpretive technique and program development. Geology. Plants and ecosystems. Forestry. Wildlife and birds. Agricultural lands and weed management. Water resources. Ongoing-Training Sessions After your first year as a Volunteer Naturalist, you are asked to complete two on-going trainings every year you are active. On-going training sessions on various topics are offered by Boulder County staff throughout the year. On-going trainings are usually between 1-3 hours in length depending on the topic. Trainings provided by outside entities, including other agencies, non-profits, or reputable groups can count towards your on-going training requirements.
Contact:	For additional information please contact Carlos Lerma at clerma@bouldercounty.gov or 303-678-6214.
Application Process:	Application deadline is Oct. 31, 2024, or until all positions are filled. Apply Now Applications are accepted through Discover Boulder County, Parks & Open Space’s volunteer management system. If you’re new to the system, you’ll need to create an account. But it’s easy and we only use your contact information to communicate about events you register for. We will never sell or give your information to a third party.