Reelfoot National Wildlife Refuge
Southeast Region
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Volunteers on Reelfoot NWR

Reelfoot NWR is located one mile off Highway 157 in the Walnut Log Community. There is a small visitor center with exhibits and an auditorium. The surrounding community is rural but the refuge is part of the beautiful Reelfoot Lake which provides excellent opportunities for fishing, canoeing, bird watching and hunting. Reelfoot Lake has the largest concentration of wintering Bald Eagles in the continental United States, with up to 200 eagles, 250,000 ducks, and 50,000 geese wintering on the refuge. Visitation at the refuge with its two units reaches around 250,000 annually.

The refuge is located 2 hours north of Memphis, TN which offers endless recreational and cultural opportunities. The weather is in the 80's and 90's in the summer months and can fall into the teens during the winter months. Full hookups and laundry facilities are available for a three month committment working 32 hours a week.

To apply you can use our Online Application. The application should be printed, filled out with ink and mailed to the refuge office. Please attach a reference sheet with at least three references.

There are also other opportunities for volunteers that do not live on the refuge. Some volunteers may have a specialized skill and may only be able to volunteer for a week or possibly just a day. Any help is always greatly appreciated! This may be a specific group or individual; boyscouts, girlscouts, landscape specialists, artists, photographers, etc.

For any questions regarding volunteer related information, please contact Tara Dowdy.

Credit: USFWS

Credit: USFWS

Volunteer helping at our annual handicapped fishing rodeo

 
Credit: USFWS

Credit: USFWS

Volunteer helping with our annual Jr. Ranger program

 
Credit: USFWS

Credit: USFWS

Master Gardeners helping with our wildflower beds

 

Volunteer Opportunities Available:

Visitor Center Operation

  • Answering Phone
  • Light Typing/Filing
  • Greeting Visitors
  • Cleaning

Assist in Educational Programs and Events

  • Fishing Rodeo's
  • School Groups
  • Career Fairs
  • Jr. Ranger Program

Outdoor Work

  • Landscaping/Trail Maintenance
  • General Maintenance
  • Handyman
  • Groundskeeper
Last updated: July 6, 2012