The DLC is happy to announce our all new volunteer and community science program!

 

This program will provide exciting opportunities for you to engage with the DLC and our work, and provide valuable services to public lands, scientific research, and support our ecosystem and community.

You may ask, “why a volunteer program, and why now?” Well, after many conversations with partners and exploring new avenues for collaboration, the need for a robust volunteer program to improve ecosystem health and support public access became apparent. Initially we are partnering with a growing list of conservation organizations and municipalities to bring a wide array of program offerings, and will be growing our network of collaborators in the future. The types of volunteers we are looking for specifically are:

Trail development and preserve maintenance: The DLC partners with many organizations who need support across Dutchess County and beyond. Come help build trail infrastructure, maintain ecologically sensitive areas, remove invasives and more. All while learning how outdoor recreation can support an intact and healthy ecosystem.

Program Co-leaders/education support: Work with staff on specific programs utilizing your expertise and experience. The DLC is always looking for educational leaders, or highly knowledgeable folks to partner with on group discussions. Group hikes, coffee shop presentations, and Zoom webinars; we do it all and would love your support!

Outreach Event Support: Are you outgoing and love talking about conservation? You can attend local events and spread the good work of the DLC and its partners. Engage youth with fun games and prizes and talk to folks of all ages about all things conservation, while enhancing awareness of the DLC.

Community Science: Interested in collecting data that has real ecological application? Do you know how to use a smart phone or tablet? We are developing opportunities for individuals to collect data for organizations that can aid in the restoration efforts of land and water.

Photography and Videography: Consider yourself a hobby photographer, or do you own a drone you like to shoot video with? We always have a need to visually tell the story of conservation the DLC and its partners are accomplishing.

Administrative Help: Assist with a variety of clerical work including: light office work, packet assembly, data entry, event support, digitizing records, organizing materials and more.

How can you sign up? Go to the link below and enter some simple information. After that, wait for the opportunities to come rolling in. You will receive periodic updates on upcoming opportunities, including training for self-guided citizen science work. Or, simply keep an eye on our Facebook events page and webpage for events and opportunities.

Volunteer sign-up: https://forms.office.com/r/8jDTUdmct2

If you have more time to dedicate to the program, our coordinator would love to talk with you about more in-depth opportunities and your skillset: brians@dutchessland.org or 1-845-677-3002 x113