Volunteer Opportunities

Volunteers are the life blood in helping the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service's Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge fulfill its mission of conserving, protecting, and enhancing fish and wildlife and their habitats as well as providing educational and recreational opportunities for the public.

WHAT DO VOLUNTEERS DO?
Volunteers perform a wide variety of tasks, including:

• meeting and greeting visitors and providing information;
  
• leading tours and providing interpretation to the visiting public and groups;
  
• taking part in special projects and events;
  
• performing clerical and administrative duties;
  
• working with computers, exhibits, and other technical equipment;
  
• photographing a variety of cultural and natural resources;
  
• maintaining trails;
  
• representing the Refuge at community functions;
  
• developing environmental education materials, assisting with teacher workshops, and leading lessons;
  
• assisting with volunteer recruitment efforts, orientation training, and job matching;
  
• participating in wildlife surveys.

HOW MUCH OF MY TIME IS REQUIRED?
The amount of time that you volunteer is up to you. You may volunteer a few hours a week or month, or during a particular season.

WHO MAY VOLUNTEER?

• No special skills are needed to be a volunteer. However, on the job training is provided, if needed.
  
• While there is no age limit, anyone under 18 must have written parental approval.
  
• Anyone 16 or younger should be accompanied by an adult.
  
• Organized group participation is welcomed and encouraged.
  

YOUR WILD EXPERIENCE
Volunteers are invaluable to the management of the Nation's fish and wildlife resources. You, too, can enjoy a productive and rewarding experience as a volunteer with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service's Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge.

WHERE DO I START?
Interested persons or groups should call 757-721-2412 for more information.

WHERE CAN I GET ADDITIONAL INFORMATION?
It is possible to volunteer other programs within the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Visit us at http://volunteers.fws.gov to find out more.