Shorebird Steward Volunteer

Introduction

The Edwin B. Forsythe National Wildlife Refuge, located just six miles north of Atlantic City, New Jersey, protects over 48,000 acres of diverse coastal habitats. The refuge primarily consists of wetlands (82%), but also features woodlands, grasslands, dunes, and beaches. It is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts, offering 15 miles of scenic trails, boat launches, a Visitor Information Center, and the popular 8-mile Wildlife Drive auto tour.

The Refuge’s location in one of the Atlantic Flyway’s most active flight paths makes it a critical stopover for countless bird species, and one of the region's premier birding destinations. Visitors can engage in a variety of recreational activities, including hiking, birdwatching, fishing, hunting, photography, and more. This blend of stunning natural landscapes and opportunities for exploration makes it a must-visit for nature lovers. For more information about the refuge, please visit: https://www.fws.gov/refuge/edwin-b-forsythe.

Purpose: Increase refuge presence and public interaction to improve understanding of the Refuge’s mission and resources. Generate stewardship for the protection of shorebirds in the Holgate Wilderness Area. Educate and encourage compliance with refuge regulations including the closure of Holgate during bird nesting season.

Primary Work Location: Holgate Wilderness Area at the southern end of Long Beach Island, NJ.

Qualifications: Ability to interact responsively, politely, and empathetically with people of all ages, abilities, and backgrounds. Convey information in an engaging and respectful way easily understood by the public. Responsible and reliable, showing up for duties as scheduled, on time, and prepared. Ability to walk over sand while carrying a tote bag and beach chair, and work outside in varying weather conditions. Must be age 18 years or older.

Duties and Responsibilities Staff the boundary and engage visitors in a positive and educational way to provide information about the refuge, Holgate’s closure during nesting season, and regulations to encourage (not enforce) compliance. Hand out maps and brochures. Identify and report safety hazards or conditions. Use trash picker to help remove trash. Monitor the boundary line. Initiate conversations about shorebird stewardship.

Conditions of Service: Volunteer must be safety-conscious, actively communicate with their supervisor, and use SignUp software to sign up for shifts. Wear uniform components and suitable and tidy clothing appropriate for the task including pants or shorts (mid-thigh or longer) with sturdy shoes for walking over sand and to protect feet from sharp objects that may be in the sand. Work will be outdoors and expose volunteers to various weather conditions, wildlife, thorny/irritating vegetation, biting/stinging insects, and allergens. Duties require an easy to moderate level of activity including walking over uneven terrain carrying needed equipment.

Hours and Time Commitment: 2+ hour shifts, with a minimum of 4 hours per month, April 1 – September 30, during daylight hours between 8am – 4:30pm, or as needed and agreed upon.

Training & Requirements: Refuge staff and/or experienced volunteers will provide program training and review position safety requirements and policy. Volunteers are required to:

·      Complete a Volunteer Service Agreement form and review the Service Description and Volunteer Handbook annually.

·      Complete online Shorebird Stewardship Training, about 3 hours.

·      Review Refuge’s website to learn about the mission, resources, appropriate recreational uses, and the regulations of Holgate Wilderness Area.

·      Attend orientation and receive training on relevant duties, procedures, and refuge policies.

·      Keep record of time worked and number of contacts made per shift.

·      Immediately report all injuries and/or property damage to the volunteer’s supervisor and follow guidance on the Emergency Contac sheet and in the Volunteer Handbook.

Personal Property and Reimbursement

No reimbursement is authorized, and personal tools or property is not required for this position. The refuge is not liable, and the volunteer will not be reimbursed for any personal items that are lost, damaged, or stolen.

Benefits

Participation in volunteer trainings, workshops and appreciation events. Volunteers who achieve 250 service hours with federal agencies may qualify for an America the Beautiful Volunteer Pass.