As a Trail Steward volunteer, you will monitor Waseeka’s trail system and report any issues, such as fallen trees or rough trail conditions, that you encounter. This sanctuary features unique trails with woodland birds and waterbirds, wildflowers, and a fire-enhanced forest with a diverse tree population.
Trail Stewards play a key role in helping Mass Audubon maintain safe, welcoming, and pleasant trails for visitors by alerting staff of priority areas to address along the trails. This volunteer position is a great fit for someone who loves spending time outdoors, hiking, and making trails and natural spaces both welcoming for visitors and protected for wildlife. It is also a great fit for someone looking for a flexible volunteer opportunity to do on their own schedule.
Responsibilities
As a volunteer, you will be responsible for:
Hiking along trails on your own schedule when the sanctuary is open and submitting a report to staff on a phone or computer with your findings
Moving small-to-medium sticks and debris and/or removing trash along trails as needed
Entering the hours you volunteered in our online volunteer portal with a phone or computer
Training will be provided in the form of a group orientation in late January.
Requirements
Submit and successfully clear a CORI/SORI background check
Be age 16 or older or always accompanied by parent/guardian when volunteering
Commit to:
Hiking along at least one sanctuary trail at least once every 2 months
Completing an online report form after each visit via computer or mobile device
Demonstrating and modeling responsible behavior on trails
Safety
Maintaining a safe work environment is a priority of Mass Audubon. Volunteers should dress in appropriate outdoor clothing for the weather and sturdy shoes and bring a snack and water if you plan to be out on the trails for an extended period.
Schedule
Trail Stewards can volunteer by hiking the trails at any time the sanctuary is open. While weekly-to-monthly monitoring is the most helpful to staff, we ask that as a Trail Steward, you plan to volunteer at least once every two months.
Next Steps
To express interest in this volunteer position, please click the “Respond” button and in the Response Notes, include a few sentences about why you are interested in this role and why you’d be a great fit. Make sure to click the “Submit Opportunity Response” button at the end to complete the process. Our volunteer lead will reach out to share more about the program and next steps.
