Pocosin Lakes National Wildlife Refuge, Resident Volunteers

Facility

A flock of hundreds of snow geese taking off from an agricultural field
Pocosin Lakes National Wildlife Refuge conserves a rare type of wetland habitat, known as "pocosin." These wetlands, unique to the southeast, have deep organic peat soils and a dense layer of evergreen shrubs. In addition to pocosins, the refuge encompasses vast acres of other natural wetlands,...

Location

Address

205 South Ludington Drive
Columbia, NC 27925
United States

Date Range
-

Volunteer Position Overview

Volunteers Needed
-
Recruitment Start Date
Recruitment End Date
Days
Sunday, Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday
Training Required
No
Security Clearance Needed
Yes
Virtual
No
Suitability
Families, 55+

About This Position

Resident Volunteer – Pocosin Lakes National Wildlife Refuge

Location: Columbia, North Carolina

Commitment: Year-Round (Immediate Opening Available)

Housing: On-site RV Pad with Full Hookups

Position Overview

Pocosin Lakes National Wildlife Refuge is seeking dedicated Resident Volunteers to support daily operations at the Visitor Center and Gift Shop, assist with light maintenance activities, and—if desired—participate in public educational programming. This position plays an important role in welcoming visitors, supporting refuge operations, and promoting conservation awareness.

Key Responsibilities
  • Staff the Visitor Center and Gift Shop
  • Greet and assist visitors; answer phones and respond to questions
  • Conduct retail sales and process winter hunt permits
  • Provide general information about the refuge and its wildlife
  • Assist with light maintenance tasks, including mowing, trimming, trail and boardwalk upkeep, and trash removal
  • (Optional) Present educational programs to the public after receiving training
  • Assist with cleaning the visitor center and bathrooms

RV Site Information
  • Four volunteer RV pads available
  • Two sites located in a scenic wooded area near Lake Phelps, approximately 20 miles from the Visitor Center in Columbia, NC
  • Full hookups: water, sewage, 30/50-amp electrical service
  • Laundry facilities available on-site
  • Excellent opportunities for fishing and paddling

Service Requirements

  • Couples: 24 hours of service per week (each)
  • Single volunteers: 32 hours of service per week
  • A minimum commitment of three months is preferred; shorter terms may be negotiated. Longer stays are welcomed when available and when program needs allow


Refuge Highlights
  • Home to black bears, raptors, and thousands of migratory birds during winter
  • Unique natural landscapes and abundant wildlife viewing opportunities

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Other Ways to Work with Us

Are you looking for something different than a volunteer opportunity? The Fish and Wildlife Service employs around 9,000 people nationwide and offers great internship opportunities every year.