Hundreds of people volunteer their time and efforts at Neal Smith National Wildlife Refuge. Refuge volunteers come from all ages and backgrounds, all skills and interests.

Volunteer assignments at the refuge vary in duration and regularity. Hands-on stewardship activities (i.e. seed collecting, trail maintenance) tend to be single-day events that vary in length of time. Assignments that deal with public use of the Prairie Learning Center (i.e. information desk, interpreter) are more likely to occur at certain times and on certain days each week.

Youth, civic, and special interest groups are always welcome to volunteer. Hands-on stewardship activities like seed collecting and clearing brush from savanna remnants are most popular with groups. Often organization badges, honors, etc. can be earned from the experience.

The Refuge staff and the Friends of the Prairie Leaning Center are looking for volunteers to:

• Join one of four Volunteer Seed Collection Team in central Iowa to hand-collect rare prairie seeds for an hour or two each week

• Staff the Friends of the Prairie Leaning Center environmental book store a few hours each week

• Assist Refuge staff in leading K-12 school groups through the Learning Center exhibits during school hours in the busy spring and autumn months

• Organize and manage the media resource center, including books, videos, and handouts a few hours weekly

For more detailed information on the opportunities listed above, please contact:

Volunteer Coordinator
PO Box 399, Prairie City, IA 50288
(515) 994-2415
E-mail information available on Friends of the Prairie Learning Center site
http://www.tallgrass.org

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