Volunteering
Help collect Kemp’s ridley sea turtle eggs, assist with ocelot research, lead nature walks and help with environmental education programs, provide friendly service to visitors, maintain equipment or help organize a festival! The Refuge is looking for year-round volunteers interested in helping with biological work, interpretation, education, visitor services, maintenance and administrative support. Both non-resident and local volunteers are welcomed and needed!
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| Educating children about reptiles at the Ocelot Conservation Festival. Photo by USFWS. |
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Full RV hook up is provided for part time (24 hours per couple/32 hours single) volunteers with a minimum three month commitment. Ten RV pads are set within this beautiful Refuge and services include utilities, laundry facility and a comfortable recreation room. The Refuge has internships available throughout the year. Internships are full time and typically last about 12 weeks. They are provided with housing, utilities, and a stipend of $75 per week.
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| Gathering data on ocelots. Photo by USFWS. |
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How to apply:
Contact the Volunteer Coordinator at (956)748-3607 or search for opportunities on the Laguna Atascosa NWR on Volunteer.gov. Applications are accepted year-round.
The Area:
Laguna Atascosa NWR is located on the coast of far southern Texas. The resort area of South Padre Island is just 20 miles southeast of the Refuge and offers sandy beaches, shopping, gas stations, restaurants, entertainment, etc. The City of Harlingen is about 25 miles west of the Refuge and has restaurants, shopping, RV service centers, and other amenities. A golf course is located about 15 miles southeast of the Refuge. Matamoros, Mexico is 30 miles south of the Refuge and has plenty of restaurants and shopping. There are many other nature-oriented destinations are in the area. |
