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In
the years since the Elkhorn Slough Reserve became public land,
it has become an important source of information and recreation
for thousands of visiting adults and school children. The success
of the Reserve in meeting its goals has been facilitated largely
by the efforts of Volunteers. Volunteers have taken the goals
of the program – to preserve, to educate, and to assist
with research – to be their own and have worked tirelessly
and responsibly to ensure success.
Today,
the Reserve attracts more than 50,000 visitors each year, including
a growing number of local school groups. To handle the increased
demand, more than 150 volunteers assist with the Reserve's education
and research programs. This diverse group includes bird watchers,
retired engineers, teachers, high school students and others interested
in sharing their knowledge of the slough.
Lend a hand restoring Elkhorn Slough-
join a work party today!
Volunteer
Activities
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- Lead guided
tours of the Reserve
- Staff the
Visitor Center and Bookstore
- Assist
with research at the Reserve
- Provide
clerical and maintenance support
- Assist
with habitat restoration
- Help with
special projects and events
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The Benefits
of Volunteering
In exchange for your
service, you'll learn
about the cultural and natural history of the area and how
to interpret this knowledge to others. In doing so, you'll gain
a deeper understanding of the natural environment, improve your
public speaking skills, and develop personal contacts with researchers
and other professionals. You'll also develop a close community
of friends who share your interest in the slough and enjoy teaching
others about its many values.
Additional benefits
include: a monthly newsletter, special speakers, parties, enrichments,
potlucks, field trips, an opportunity to promote environmental
awareness and to meet active, interesting like-minded individuals.
Public Service
What volunteers bring
to the Reserve could never be bought. Since the Reserve's early
years, volunteers have been instrumental in the success of a wide
variety of programs sponsored by the California Department of
Fish and Game, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration,
the Elkhorn Slough Foundation, and a host of other organizations.
However, the volunteers'
main contribution has been to foster public concern for the slough
and other wetlands by conveying the importance of these environments
to the broadest possible audience. To that end, Reserve volunteers
provide an invaluable service, helping to reveal the wonders of
wetlands and inspiring people to protect these fragile areas for
the future.
For more information
on becoming a volunteer
at Elkhorn Slough, contact Kenton Parker
Elkhorn Slough National Estuarine Research Reserve
Volunteer Program
1700 Elkhorn Rd., Watsonville, CA 95076
(831) 728-2822
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