Volunteering
Enrich your communities and enhance public awareness of Oregon’s natural resources through conservation education, scientific inquiry, and stewardship activities.
Oregon Naturalists Make a Difference
Volunteer opportunities
Education & Outreach
Lead nature hikes or help develop a visitor guide for a natural area. Many of these places depend on volunteers during peak visitor seasons.
Give an educational program at a city, county, state, or federal park. Ever notice how some people seem to be natural storytellers? Others have a way of making people comfortable. And others can explain just about anything to anybody in a way that makes sense. All of these elements and more are involved in the art of interpretation. The Oregon Naturalist program encourages you to take training in interpretation.
Community Science
Collect data for an agency, organization or program. For example, this might include wildlife and plant surveys, water quality monitoring, and other scientific monitoring. These surveys are critical for maintaining and managing for biological diversity.
The Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife is looking for ways to engage Oregon Naturalists in meeting goals outlined in the Oregon Conservation Strategy.
Land Stewardship
Maintain a natural area, control invasive species, or restore native vegetation. Or assist in maintaining a trail or other public recreation area. If you like to get your hands dirty, this is a great option.
Program Support
Work on newsletters, websites, or greet the public at information stations at nature centers, state and federal park visitor centers, or natural resources groups.
This is an excellent option if you want or need a less physically taxing option, or if you have physical limitations. Or would like to hone your skills in these areas.
Volunteer Requirements
- Volunteering in Oregon is preferred. Volunteer projects in neighboring states (Washington, Idaho, California, Nevada) are allowed as the program partners with groups in these states
- Not for pay: Volunteering must occur outside of your regular paid work schedule.
- Activism: Any volunteering or activities while you are associated with the Oregon Naturalist program (e.g., wearing your official name badge), can't include activism (environmental, political, etc.).