Opportunities From: Mass Audubon

Help support Barn Swallows at Moose Hill Wildlife Sanctuary by contributing to a community conservation project that monitors and maintains specially built nest shelves. Barn Swallows once commonly nested on barns and structures, but suitable nesting spots have become harder to find. These nest shelves provide safe, stable places for them to raise their young. 

This is a great opportunity to spend time outdoors, learn about wildlife up close, and directly support local bird conservation in a meaningful and ongoing way. No prior experience is needed and training will be provided.

Responsibilities

As a volunteer, you'll visit 8 nest shelves that are attached to a barn. During the breeding season (mid-April to mid-September) you will be doing the following:

Observe and record activity or non-activity at the nesting site

Note any challenges, such as use of shelves by other species like the invasive House Sparrow

Visit the nesting site every 5-7 days for a maximum of 1-minute at each nesting shelf. Minimal disturbance of the birds is critical to the success of this project

Enter your observations into NestWatch, a national community science program run by the Cornell Lab of Ornithology

It is important to follow all wildlife safety guidelines, including keeping a respectful distance and never touching nests, eggs, or chicks.

Outside the breeding season (September-April), volunteers may also help check and maintain the nest shelves. These simple maintenance visits help create the best possible conditions for returning Barn Swallows.

Qualifications

Volunteers should be comfortable spending time outdoors on uneven ground and mud and be prepared for changing weather conditions.

Minimal walking is involved and you can park right next to the nesting site.

You will need sturdy shoes and a pair of binoculars.

Volunteers will need to complete a CORI/SORI background check.

To express interest in this opportunity, click the "Respond" button. In the "Response Notes," share in a few sentences a little about yourself and why you would be a good fit for this position. Please note this step is only to express interest in this opportunity. Our volunteer coordinator will follow up with you with more information and next steps.

Runners will need a snack after completing their 5k/10k! Duties include keeping the water jug full and snacks out for participants. You will have access to our barn kitchen for refilling the jug and stocking up on more snacks if needed. This role will be a hybrid of indoor and outdoor. There will not be air conditioning. Standing, bending, lifting (about 30 lbs.) will be common movements in this role.  Volunteers will meet at Pleasant Valley Wildlife Sanctuary at our volunteer check-in tent, located at the entrance of the sanctuary.

Description
Help Mass Audubon track the status and trends in the reproductive biology of breeding birds at our sanctuaries by participating in the nationwide community science research program NestWatch. The NestWatch program was developed and run by the Cornel Lab of Ornithology, and utilized by Mass Audubon statewide to engage volunteers in breeding bird biology through data collection.

The Nest Watch Volunteer will be trained and responsible for collecting reproductive data on breeding birds by monitoring nest boxes at a specified sanctuary. Volunteers will learn to identify several local breeding bird species by sight and by nest structures. Common bird species to be monitored include Eastern Bluebird, Tree Swallow, House Wren, and Black-capped Chickadee.

Shift/Schedule Information

This volunteer position takes place May-August, which spans the duration of the breeding bird season.

Volunteers visit nest box sites at least once per week with an estimated commitment of 2 hours per week.

You are able to monitor anytime between 9:00 am and 5:00 pm for the day that you are signed up for.

Qualifications

Volunteers should be comfortable being outdoors for the duration of their shift and be prepared to encounter swooping birds and disturbed/destroyed eggs and nests.

Ability to collect and record accurate data to an online platform while in the field.

Ability to walk on sometimes uneven terrain

Successful completion of a CORI/SORI background check.

To express interest in this opportunity, click the "Respond" button. In the "Response Notes," share in a few sentences a little about yourself and why you would be a good fit for this position. Please note this step is only to express interest in this opportunity. Our volunteer coordinator will follow up with you with more information and next steps.

If you have any additional questions about the opportunity, please contact the volunteer coordinator at kmitchellsmith@massaudubon.org.

We're looking forward to welcoming your group to the Boston Nature Center! Please choose the date/time discussed with Heather from the list below and click "Respond as Group" to sign your group up. (If you haven't already made one, you will first have to create a Mass Audubon Volunteer Portal account with us).

You are all signed up! Please be in communication with Heather if the size of your group changes, or you need to change the date you'll be volunteering. See you soon!

Volunteers needed to work June 12 for early packet pick-up at Pleasant Valley Wildlife Sanctuary. Duties include organizing/handing out runner bibs and chips, preparing registration giveaways, assigning runners their bib number, greeting participants, handling money for same-day registration, and providing race information.  Volunteers will meet at Pleasant Valley Wildlife Sanctuary in our historic barn.

Your smiling face will be the first thing our runners see when they arrive! We need excited volunteers to get runners registered and outfitted with their bibs and chips before the race begins. Duties include preparing registration giveaways, assigning runners/walkers their bib numbers, handling money for same-day registration, and answering questions/providing race information. Volunteers will meet at Pleasant Valley Wildlife Sanctuary in our historic barn.

Duties include cheering on runners while directing them along the course. This position is outdoors and requires standing/walking for long periods of time. Familiarity with Kennedy Park trail network desired. Basic first AID & CPR skills a plus! Please bring a water bottle, snack, and comfortable shoes.   Details on where and when course monitors will meet is TBD.

Help us keep runners and spectators safe by directing traffic and parking at Pleasant Valley. Duties include keeping our parking lot organized and safe and assisting drivers with parking locations. This position is outdoors and requires standing for long periods of time. Please bring a water bottle, snack, and comfortable shoes.  

Volunteers will meet at Pleasant Valley Wildlife Sanctuary at our volunteer check-in tent, located at the entrance of the sanctuary.

Water station volunteers will be stationed at various points throughout the course in Kennedy Park. Duties include filling and distributing water to runners and cleaning up after the last runner passes. Some of our water stations are not accessible by car. You may have to hike to your station. If this poses a barrier to you, please let us know. You will be asked to carry a table, a few gallons of water, cups, and a trash bag. You will also be asked to clean up your station at the end of the race. This position is outdoors and requires standing for long periods of time. Please bring a water bottle, snack, and comfortable shoes. Light lifting of about 30 lbs. is also required.  

Volunteers will meet at Pleasant Valley Wildlife Sanctuary at our volunteer check-in tent, located at the entrance of the sanctuary.

We need volunteers to help break down the refreshments table, registration & prize areas. Duties include taking down signs, packing up registration materials, and cleaning trash from the surrounding area. This role will be a hybrid of indoor and outdoor. There will not be air conditioning. Standing, bending, lifting (about 30 lbs.) will be common movements in this role.  Volunteers will meet at Pleasant Valley Wildlife Sanctuary at our volunteer check-in tent, located at the entrance of the sanctuary.

Volunteer at Arcadia to help maintain the grounds and trails, offered every second Saturday of the month from May-November (weather permitting). Projects vary each month, but often include:

Help Mass Audubon monitor Bobolinks and other grassland breeding birds at Drumlin Farm Wildlife Sanctuary. Bobolinks rely on open fields for nesting, and careful monitoring helps us better understand their presence, abundance, and breeding behavior while informing thoughtful grassland management.

Bobolink Monitoring Volunteers will be trained to conduct weekly visual surveys from designated vantage points around the fields. To minimize disturbance, volunteers will observe from select locations and record Bobolink activity and behaviors through an online datasheet. 

Shift/Schedule Information

This position runs from the last week of May through approximately the second week of July.

Monitoring will take place during early weekday mornings, generally between 6:00 am and 9:00 am, with volunteers rotating through 3 to 4 vantage points.

Additional morning surveys may be added if more volunteers are available.

Qualifications

Volunteers should be comfortable with grassland bird identification (both visual and audible), using binoculars, recording accurate field data, walking short distances on uneven terrain, and tracking volunteer hours through an online form. Training will be provided.

Successful completion of a CORI/SORI background check.

Prior birding experience is required, and previous grassland bird monitoring experience is helpful.

To express interest in this opportunity, click the "Respond" button. In the "Response Notes," share in a few sentences a little about yourself and why you would be a good fit for this position. Please note this step is only to express interest in this opportunity. Our volunteer coordinator will follow up with you with more information and next steps.

To express interest in this opportunity, click the "Respond" button. In the "Response Notes," share in a few sentences why you are interested and why this is a great volunteer role for you. Please note that this step is only to express interest in this opportunity. A volunteer coordinator will follow up with you about the next steps, which will include a brief conversation and a background check before you begin volunteering.

Join our core group of dedicated individual volunteers on Wednesdays from 9:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. to support seasonal property stewardship at the Boston Nature Center. Volunteers will help with litter pick-up, invasive plant removal, trail maintenance and other stewardship projects under the direction of the Property Manager. 

This opportunity takes place on Wednesdays only.

Interested volunteers will be asked to familiarize themselves with Mass Audubon's invasive plant guide. The guide is available for download. 

Kayak Volunteers support Felix Neck staff with guided kayak tours on Sengekontacket Pond. As a volunteer, you’ll help fit participants with gear, assist with launching and landing boats, and support a safe, welcoming experience for all throughout the trip. Kayaking is a unique way to experience this special ecosystem: we’re looking for volunteers who love to be outdoors, want to help connect others to nature through this program, and are eager to get more experience in the fields of conservation, environmental education, and outdoor recreation.

Responsibilities

Support staff with loading, unloading, launching, and landing kayaks.

Support staff with packing and unpacking program equipment and materials.

Support participants with life jackets and paddles.

Actively kayak for approximately 1.5-2 hours alongside the group.

Keep the group together during the tour, acting as “sweep” so no one is left behind.

Offer assistance to participants as needed.

Proactively communicate with staff if there is a concern or issue.

Maintain positive and encouraging energy throughout the program.

Qualifications

Comfort and experience on the water and in a kayak, with a level of fitness to kayak for at least 2 hours.

Patient, friendly, and enthusiastic about working with members of the public, who may be new to kayaking.

Aged 18 or older.

Successful completion of a CORI/SORI background check.

Some marine/bird knowledge is helpful but not required.

Schedule/Shift Information

Shifts are 3 hours long.

Volunteers are asked to sign up for at least three programs sessions during the season – more than three welcome and encouraged!

Volunteers are responsible for signing up for their shifts and logging their own hours after each volunteer shift in the online Volunteer Portal.

Benefits

Connect with knowledgeable staff and learn more about natural history, conservation work, and education.

Spend time outdoors in a beautiful natural setting, volunteering alongside individuals as passionate about the environment as you are!

Exclusive online education programs are offered to volunteers who contribute 25 hours or more per year.

Next Steps

To express interest in this opportunity, click the "Respond" button. In the "Response Notes," share in a few sentences why you are interested and why you would be an excellent fit for this volunteer role. Please note that this step is only to express interest in this opportunity. A volunteer coordinator will follow up with you about the next steps, which will include a brief conversation and a background check before you begin volunteering.

To express interest in this opportunity, click the "Respond" button. In the "Response Notes," share in a few sentences why you are interested and why you would be an excellent fit for this volunteer role. Please note that this step is only to express interest in this opportunity. A volunteer coordinator will follow up with you about the next steps.

The Boston Nature Center Sanctuary Committee aims to promote, advise, and assist the Boston Nature Center Sanctuary located in Mattapan, Massachusetts. Sanctuary Committee Volunteers advise and support the Sanctuary Director in all areas of Sanctuary operations, including finance, development, planning, programs, property management, and recruitment.

Sanctuary Committee Volunteers: 

Promote the Sanctuary’s use for conservation, education, research, and environmental advocacy.  

Participate in long-range Strategic Planning for the management of the sanctuary.  

Serve as a liaison between the Mass Audubon and the community.

To express interest in this opportunity, click the "Respond" button. In the "Response Notes," share in a few sentences why you are interested and why this is a great volunteer role for you. Please note that this step is only to express interest in this opportunity. A volunteer coordinator will follow up with you about the next steps, which will include a brief conversation and a background check before you begin volunteering.

Wildlife Information Line Volunteers work with Mass Audubon’s Conservation Division Operations Manager and the Conservation Science team to respond to inquiries from the general public regarding animal husbandry, general naturalist questions, and act as a resource for directing people who encounter injured wildlife. In this position, you'll have the opportunity to play a pivotal role in representing Mass Audubon and sharing our collective expertise as a leader in conserving Massachusetts’ wildlife and wild places.  

Responsibilities

Monitor the Wildlife Info Line email inbox

Answer all incoming email messages

Return any messages requiring a return phone call

Communicate and collaborate with Conservation Division Operations Manager, Conservation Science team, and other Mass Audubon departments / staff, as needed, to obtain the information required to respond accurately to all inquiries

Training will be provided.  

Qualifications

A love of wildlife and a desire to learn more about the natural world

Knowledge of the natural history / wildlife of Massachusetts, biology, ecology, zoology, or other natural science preferred, but not required

Comfort with Microsoft Outlook, Microsoft Excel, Microsoft Word and a willingness to learn new data skills

Adult aged 18 or older

Successful completion of a CORI/SORI background check  

Schedule/Shift Information

Volunteers are asked to contribute a minimum of 2 hours per week with a minimum commitment of 1 year

Volunteers are responsible for logging their own hours after each volunteer shift in the online Volunteer Portal. 

Next Steps

To express interest in this opportunity, click the "Respond" button. In the "Response Notes," share in a few sentences why you are interested and why you would be an excellent fit for this volunteer role. Please note that this step is only to express interest in this opportunity. A volunteer coordinator will follow up with you about the next steps, which will include a brief conversation and a background check before you begin volunteering.

Help Mass Audubon track the status and trends in the reproductive biology of breeding birds at our sanctuaries by participating in the nationwide community science research program NestWatch. The NestWatch program was developed and run by the Cornel Lab of Ornithology, and utilized by Mass Audubon statewide to engage volunteers in breeding bird biology through data collection.

The Nest Watch Volunteer will be trained and responsible for collecting reproductive data on breeding birds by monitoring nest boxes at a specified sanctuary. Volunteers will learn to identify several local breeding bird species by sight and by nest structures. Common bird species to be monitored include Eastern Bluebird, Tree Swallow, House Wren, and Black-capped Chickadee.

Shift/Schedule Information

This volunteer position takes place May-August, which spans the duration of the breeding bird season.

Volunteers visit nest box sites at least once per week with an estimated commitment of 2 hours per week. 

You are able to monitor anytime between 9:00 am and 5:00 pm for the day that you are signed up for.

Qualifications

Volunteers should be comfortable being outdoors for the duration of their shift and be prepared to encounter swooping birds and disturbed/destroyed eggs and nests. 

Ability to collect and record accurate data to an online platform while in the field.

Ability to walk on sometimes uneven terrain and through tall grass. Walking distance can be 1-2 miles, but varies by location.

Successful completion of a CORI/SORI background check.

To express interest in this opportunity, click the "Respond" button. In the "Response Notes," share in a few sentences a little about yourself and why you would be a good fit for this position. Please note this step is only to express interest in this opportunity. Our volunteer coordinator will follow up with you with more information and next steps.

By volunteering you will protect biodiversity and build ecological resilience at our Broadmoor Wildlife Sanctuary. Join us for regular, seasonal stewardship projects such as trail monitoring, invasive plant removal, cutting back overgrowth, and other activities throughout the year. This is a perfect opportunity for anyone looking to protect the natural world alongside neighbors and friends. No experience necessary!

These volunteer sessions are physical and require walking on uneven surfaces, using hand tools, carrying debris, and bending. They are geared for adults and teens. Children under 15 must be accompanied by a parent. The sessions will be canceled for rain, snow, or extreme temperatures.

Family members please register as a group. (Corporate or community groups please reach out to Trish Vosburg by email at tvosburg@massaudubon.org) 

Property volunteers will help care for the sanctuary by taking part in a variety of hands-on projects, including trail clearing, gardening, light maintenance, and supporting wildlife monitoring, all while enjoying time outdoors and making a meaningful, lasting impact on the land and its visitors.

Responsibilities

Qualifications

Schedule/Shift Information

Benefits

Next Steps

To express interest in this opportunity, click the "Respond" button. In the "Response Notes," share in a few sentences why you are interested and why you would be an excellent fit for this volunteer role. Please note that this step is only to express interest in this opportunity. A volunteer coordinator will follow up with you about the next steps, which will include a brief conversation and a background check before you begin volunteering.

Seashore Discovery Program Assist Volunteers help visitors collect and connect with small tidal creatures and our larger coastal ecosystem as part of our Seashore Discovery programs. Mass Audubon’s Teacher Naturalists lead the program, while volunteers set up and cleanup program materials, distribute equipment, and support participants to dip their nets into the shallow water of Sengekontacket Pond. This volunteer position is best suited for those who love our coastal habitat and sharing the joy of discovery with others, enjoy being outdoors, and are willing to pitch in and do what is needed to help nature programming run smoothly.

Responsibilities

Qualifications

Schedule/Shift Information

Benefits

Next Steps

To express interest in this opportunity, click the "Respond" button. In the "Response Notes," share in a few sentences why you are interested and why you would be an excellent fit for this volunteer role. Please note that this step is only to express interest in this opportunity. A volunteer coordinator will follow up with you about the next steps, which will include a brief conversation and a background check before you begin volunteering.

Love Felix Neck & Mass Audubon? Love nature & people? Do you want to help staff welcome visitors? Visitor Services volunteering is a great opportunity for you to get involved in your local Mass Audubon wildlife sanctuary and local community by meeting, engaging, and getting people excited about Felix Neck and everything we have to offer here.
Responsibilities:  

To express interest in this opportunity, click the "Respond" button. In the "Response Notes," share in a few sentences why you are interested and why you would be an excellent fit for this volunteer role. Please note that this step is only to express interest in this opportunity. A volunteer coordinator will follow up with you about the next steps, which will include a brief conversation and a background check before you begin volunteering.

Engage in advocacy and community education to advance local green policies that protect Magazine Beach Park and surrounding urban ecosystems. Volunteers will learn how to translate on-the-ground restoration findings into policy recommendations, participate in meetings with local officials, and support campaigns for sustainable park management and conservation funding. This program empowers neighbors to shape resilient, biodiversity-friendly legislation. 

We will start with a whole group introduction followed by separating into different groups based off the project each volunteer is interested in. The whole group will gather at the Nature Center for the final 20 minutes to reflect on the work, share observations, and enjoy snacks. More information about the projects and recommended items to bring will be shared with registered volunteers during the week prior to the event.

Felix Neck Wildlife Sanctuary offers a variety of programming - kayaking, youth climate leadership events, public programs, family activities, accessible programs and more!  We are looking for ongoing and flexible volunteer support to assist staff with these programs. This volunteer position is a great fit for someone with a flexible weekday schedule (especially during the summer months), a background in education and/or natural history, a willingness to do what is needed to support public programs, and a love of sharing nature with others.

Responsibilities

Qualifications

Schedule/Shift Information

Benefits

Next Steps

To express interest in this opportunity, click the "Respond" button. In the "Response Notes," share in a few sentences why you are interested and why you would be an excellent fit for this volunteer role. Please note that this step is only to express interest in this opportunity. A volunteer coordinator will follow up with you about the next steps, which will include a brief conversation and a background check before you begin volunteering.

Butterfly Garden Volunteers tend to our wildlife gardens, which provide vital, year-round habitat to bees, butterflies, birds, and other important pollinators.

Volunteers will have the opportunity to get their hands dirty, steward this important gathering and teaching space at the sanctuary, and learn more about gardening. Volunteers will weed, prune, rake, and plant – tasks vary depending on the week and season. Help our gardens thrive and serve as a strong example to visitors of how we can all steward natural spaces – large and small – for the benefit of both people and wildlife.

This is a drop-in volunteer opportunity. Walk-ins are welcome, and no ongoing commitment or prior experience is required.

How to Register

To sign up to volunteer, click the “Respond” button. You can then sign in using your existing volunteer account with Mass Audubon, or, if this is your first time using the volunteer system, you will be prompted to create a new account before signing up. You will then be prompted to select the day(s) you want to volunteer. Make sure to click the Submit Opportunity Response button on the next page and look for the green banner – and an email - indicating you have completed the whole process.

Bird Walk Volunteers support visitors to find and identify local birds on a Mass Audubon-led birding programs at Felix Neck. Volunteers may also assist the program leader with greeting visitors, teaching first-timers how to use binoculars, and sharing information about birds. This role is best suited for those who want to share their love of birds with others, with the goal of supporting individuals to connect with, learn about, and protect the natural world.

Responsibilities

Qualifications

Schedule/Shift Information

Benefits

Next Steps

To express interest in this opportunity, click the "Respond" button. In the "Response Notes," share in a few sentences why you are interested and why you would be an excellent fit for this volunteer role. Please note that this step is only to express interest in this opportunity. A volunteer coordinator will follow up with you about the next steps, which will include a brief conversation and a background check before you begin volunteering.

Join the effort to control invasive pepperweed! Through our Adopt-a-Site program, you will be assigned an area that will be your exclusive responsibility to treat on your own schedule throughout the pulling season. This area can be as big or as small as you decide that you can handle. For some of you, this might be your very own backyard. Rather than having to schedule a specific time to volunteer, you can visit and pull your "adopted" site whenever is most convenient for you. We will provide you with a detailed map of all documented pepperweed stands at the site, straightforward guides on pepperweed identification/treatment, and necessary field supplies (e.g., heavy duty contractor bags). 

The training date is June 6th, 2026 from 10am-12pm at Joppa Flats. In order to sign up as a volunteer, you must be available on this date. 

To express interest in this opportunity, click the "Respond" button. In the "Response Notes," share in a few sentences why you are interested and why you would be an excellent fit for this volunteer role. Please note that this step is only to express interest in this opportunity.

Join our group of avid Perennial Pepperweed pullers! Volunteers are an important part of our annual effort to keep this invasive plant from taking over the Great Marsh and we need your help! Learn manual invasive removal techniques, plant identification, and the ongoing efforts Mass Audubon is doing to preserve salt marsh ecosystems and their biodiversity. Sturdy shoes, long pants and sleeves are highly recommended along with water, sunscreen and bug spray. Gloves will be provided. These events are rain or shine.

Children ages 12 to 17 are welcome but must be accompanied by adults.

About This Volunteer Position

As an Education Programs Volunteer, you will...

Assist experienced naturalists who lead adult and/or family audience nature learning experiences at sanctuaries and other natural areas

Help Mass Audubon in achieving our goal of helping adults and families connect with nature and learn how to protect nature now and for future generations

This volunteer position is a great fit for someone who ...

Enjoys interacting with the public and sharing their passion for nature experiences and conservation

You will have the opportunity to ...

Spend time learning with and assisting experienced naturalists/educators

Meet and interact with people who share your interests

Learn more about the natural world, conservation science, ecological stewardship

Responsibilities

As a volunteer, you will assist the program leading with...

Greeting participants as they arrive

Checking in program participants

Distributing equipment to program participants

Supporting participants with using equipment following program leader instruction

Serving as “sweep" on programs, taking up rear to ensure no one gets separated from the group

Assisting program leader and participants with spotting wildlife, plants, etc. 

Informally share knowledge about nature subjects with participants and staff

Volunteers may also be asked to ...

Assist program leader with loading and unloading canoes, supplies, or other program material; training will be provided

Assist program leader with collecting, cleaning, and stowing program equipment

Qualifications

A well-qualified volunteer will have...

An interest in sharing your love of nature and conservation with adults and/or families

Personal experience with bird watching, hiking, canoeing, etc.

A general knowledge of local plants and animals and interest in learning more

This volunteer position is suitable for...

Adults aged 18 and older

Requirements

Background Checks:

CORI and SORI background checks are required for all volunteers

Physical:

Walking and standing on uneven terrain in a variety of weather conditions (sun, heat, light rain, etc.) during nature walks, birding programs, and hikes

Assist with loading/unloading/moving canoes and other equipment for short periods/distances before and after canoe programs

Equipment:

Mass Audubon will provide all program specific equipment

Volunteer is responsible for personal clothing and footwear

Time Commitment:

Ability to confirm and commit to assisting scheduled programs

Programs range in length from 1-3 hours and volunteer would need to be available for the duration of the program and approximately 30 minutes before and after the program time

Tracking Hours:

Volunteers agree to log their completed volunteer hours in our online volunteer portal. This can be done on a personal phone, computer, or tablet.

Training on how to enter hours will be provided as part of volunteer orientation.

Safety
Maintaining a safe work environment is a priority of Mass Audubon.

Volunteers should dress in long pants/sleeves, wear study, closed-toed shoes, and bring their own snacks and water

Any additional safety training required for this position will be provided for volunteers*

*Additional safety training required for canoeing

Schedule/Shift Information
Volunteer shifts are posted and shared with volunteers for each season of the year and may occasionally be subject to change due to weather or other program scheduling needs

Next Steps
To express interest in this opportunity, click the "Respond" button. In the "Response Notes," share in a few sentences why you are interested and why this is a great volunteer role for you. Please note that this step is only to express interest in this opportunity. A volunteer coordinator will follow up with you about the next steps, which will include a brief conversation and a background check before you begin volunteering.

Help Mass Audubon track the status and trends in the reproductive biology of breeding birds at our sanctuaries by participating in the nationwide community science research program NestWatch. The NestWatch program was developed and run by the Cornel Lab of Ornithology, and utilized by Mass Audubon statewide to engage volunteers in breeding bird biology through data collection.

The Nest Watch Volunteer will be trained and responsible for collecting reproductive data on breeding birds by monitoring nest boxes at a specified sanctuary. Volunteers will learn to identify several local breeding bird species by sight and by nest structures. Common bird species to be monitored include Eastern Bluebird, Tree Swallow, House Wren, and Black-capped Chickadee.

Shift/Schedule Information

Qualifications

To express interest in this opportunity, click the "Respond" button. In the "Response Notes," share in a few sentences a little about yourself and why you would be a good fit for this position. Please note this step is only to express interest in this opportunity. Our volunteer coordinator will follow up with you with more information and next steps.

Join us at Joppa Flats Education Center to help us maintain our native garden beds! This weekly drop-in opportunity will be focused on restoring our coastal garden beds to support pollinators and our backyard birds. The work will entail:

Weeding

Maintaining plants

Pulling invasive vines like bittersweet and multiflora rose

No prior gardening experience necessary! Bring gloves, water, and a kneeling pad if you have one. 

If you're interested in signing up, please click the "Respond" button and select the sessions you'd like to attend, then click "Submit Opportunity Response." A green banner will indicate that you are all set!

Those involved in HIP (Habitat Intergenerational Program) come to know and believe that all ages working together can make a difference in helping our Earth to be a better place for future generations. 

Pulling Partners is a weekly program that brings together students of varied ages and adults to work outside helping to control the spread of invasive plants, maintain trails, and look after the sanctuary grounds.

Projects can include invasive removal, trail maintenance, raking, shoveling, sweeping, gardening, goat shepherding and much more!

Volunteers under the age of 14 MUST participate with a parent. Please do a group signup instead of an individual signup.

We meet at the top of the parking light. If you arrive late, head into the visitor center and ask them to radio us!

If there are no more openings, and you are added to the waitlist, please email Erika at eharimoto@massaudubon.org to inquire about available space.

The Nature for Massachusetts Coalition is pursuing an initiative to place a question on the 2026 statewide ballot that would create a permanent Nature for All Fund for the purposes of acquisition, restoration or improvement of nature to create parks and trails; protect forests, farms, wildlife habitat, and water resources; and advance climate resiliency and environmental justice goals. This process takes a lot of work, and we need your help!

The Coalition needs to collect signatures from nearly 25,000 registered voters - people who did not sign already in the fall - in order to put the question on the ballot, and we’re looking for volunteers all across Massachusetts who can help by collecting signatures in your local community, serving as a Team Captain to lead and motivate other volunteers, or supporting with logistics behind the scenes!

You don’t need to know a lot about this issue, and you don’t need to have canvassing experience. By signing up to volunteer, you’ll receive all the materials, training, and support you’ll need. Click "Respond" to this opportunity or sign up on this form and we'll be in touch with next steps.

Help care for the sanctuary and enjoy a few hours of fresh air, fun and fulfillment. Come once or every week and become part of our growing group of sanctuary volunteers. Together with Mass Audubon staff, put up signs and markers, look for wildlife tracks, pick up branches, and fill the bird feeders. Projects are primarily outside. Some tasks may require heavy lifting. Ability to work without supervision required. Carpentry skills welcome. Nature lovers appreciated.

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 coordinator will reach out to share more about the program and next steps.

As a Trail Steward volunteer, you will monitor North River's 2-mile trail system and report any issues, such as fallen trees or rough trail conditions, that you encounter. North River's trails meander through forests, woodlands, and uplands, along boardwalks, and across open meadows. Volunteers will have the opportunity to get to know the sanctuary's trail system well and observe changes throughout the seasons.

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.

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 with your findings

Clipping intrusive brush and branches, 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

Virtual training will be provided and required.

Submit and successfully clear CORI/SORI background check

Watch Trail Steward volunteer training

Be age 18 or older or always accompanied by parent/guardian when volunteering  

Commit to:

Hiking along at least one sanctuary trail at least once a month

Completing report form after each visit detailing what you found on the trails 

Responsibly using the provided Trail Steward equipment and alert Mass Audubon staff if any equipment needs replacing

Demonstrating and modeling responsible behavior on trails

Volunteers also agree to log their completed volunteer hours in our online volunteer portal. This can be done on a personal phone, computer, or tablet. Training on how to enter hours will be provided as part of volunteer orientation. 

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 of time. Additional safety will be covered in the training. 

Trail Stewards can volunteer by hiking the trails at any time the sanctuary is open; dawn to dusk. Volunteers are asked to walk the trails at least once a month.

Trail Stewards offers a flexible and independent volunteer experience, but there will also be the opportunity to collaborate with other Trail Stewards and schedule times to work together.

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 coordinator will reach out to share more about the program and next steps.

Engage in advocacy and community education to advance local green policies that protect Magazine Beach Park and surrounding urban ecosystems. Volunteers will learn how to translate on-the-ground restoration findings into policy recommendations, participate in meetings with local officials, and support campaigns for sustainable park management and conservation funding. This program empowers neighbors to shape resilient, biodiversity-friendly legislation. 

We will start with a whole group introduction followed by separating into different groups based off the project each volunteer is interested in. The whole group will gather at the Nature Center for the final 20 minutes to reflect on the work, share observations, and enjoy snacks. More information about the projects and recommended items to bring will be shared with registered volunteers during the week prior to the event.

Participate in ecological monitoring and BioBlitz events using iNaturalist to document the park’s plant and animal species. Volunteers will learn species ID techniques, how to record observations and upload photos, and how to contribute data to regional and global biodiversity databases. This program trains participants to use citizen-science tools to track seasonal changes and support long-term conservation planning.

We will start with a whole group introduction followed by separating into different groups based off the project each volunteer is interested in. The whole group will gather at the Nature Center for the final 20 minutes to reflect on the work, share observations, and enjoy snacks. More information about the projects and recommended items to bring will be shared with registered volunteers during the week prior to the event.

Join community-led seasonal restoration events focused on removing litter and invasive plants to protect native habitats and improve park health. Volunteers of all ages will receive hands-on training in safe trash collection, sorting and disposal, and best practices for identifying and removing invasive species. Activities strengthen habitat resilience, reduce threats to native flora and fauna, and provide a family-friendly way to restore Magazine Beach Park. 

We will start with a whole group introduction followed by separating into different groups based off the project each volunteer is interested in. The whole group will gather at the Nature Center for the final 20 minutes to reflect on the work, share observations, and enjoy snacks. More information about the projects and recommended items to bring will be shared with registered volunteers during the week prior to the event.

Participate in ecological monitoring and BioBlitz events using iNaturalist to document the park’s plant and animal species. Volunteers will learn species ID techniques, how to record observations and upload photos, and how to contribute data to regional and global biodiversity databases. This program trains participants to use citizen-science tools to track seasonal changes and support long-term conservation planning. 

We will start with a whole group introduction followed by separating into different groups based off the project each volunteer is interested in. The whole group will gather at the Nature Center for the final 20 minutes to reflect on the work, share observations, and enjoy snacks. More information about the projects and recommended items to bring will be shared with registered volunteers during the week prior to the event.

Participate in ecological monitoring and BioBlitz events using iNaturalist to document the park’s plant and animal species. Volunteers will learn species ID techniques, how to record observations and upload photos, and how to contribute data to regional and global biodiversity databases. This program trains participants to use citizen-science tools to track seasonal changes and support long-term conservation planning. 

We will start with a whole group introduction followed by separating into different groups based off the project each volunteer is interested in. The whole group will gather at the Nature Center for the final 20 minutes to reflect on the work, share observations, and enjoy snacks. More information about the projects and recommended items to bring will be shared with registered volunteers during the week prior to the event.

Join community-led seasonal restoration events focused on removing litter and invasive plants to protect native habitats and improve park health. Volunteers of all ages will receive hands-on training in safe trash collection, sorting and disposal, and best practices for identifying and removing invasive species. Activities strengthen habitat resilience, reduce threats to native flora and fauna, and provide a family-friendly way to restore Magazine Beach Park. 

We will start with a whole group introduction followed by separating into different groups based off the project each volunteer is interested in. The whole group will gather at the Nature Center for the final 20 minutes to reflect on the work, share observations, and enjoy snacks. More information about the projects and recommended items to bring will be shared with registered volunteers during the week prior to the event.

Participate in ecological monitoring and BioBlitz events using iNaturalist to document the park’s plant and animal species. Volunteers will learn species ID techniques, how to record observations and upload photos, and how to contribute data to regional and global biodiversity databases. This program trains participants to use citizen-science tools to track seasonal changes and support long-term conservation planning. 

We will start with a whole group introduction followed by separating into different groups based off the project each volunteer is interested in. The whole group will gather at the Nature Center for the final 20 minutes to reflect on the work, share observations, and enjoy snacks. More information about the projects and recommended items to bring will be shared with registered volunteers during the week prior to the event.

Help maintain Canoe Meadows Wildlife Sanctuary through a variety of stewardship and property-related tasks

Dress for the weather and working outside. Bring your favorite work gloves and water bottle/beverage. Children under 18 must be accompanied by a parent/guardian.

This program is part of Mass Audubon's Second Saturday Volunteer Series. Volunteers help support Berkshires Wildlife Sanctuaries through a variety of stewardship and property-related tasks.

We’ll be working together to paint and refresh our nature play area, weed along trails and in garden areas, and remove invasive plant species to support native wildlife. This is a great opportunity to get outdoors, meet fellow community members, and make a lasting impact on the sanctuary. All tools and materials will be provided.

Dress for the weather and working outside. Bring your favorite work gloves and water bottle/beverage. Children under 16 must be accompanied by a parent/guardian.

This program is part of Mass Audubon's Second Saturday Volunteer Series. Volunteers help support Berkshires Wildlife Sanctuaries through a variety of stewardship and property-related tasks.

Volunteer Naturalists are frontline volunteers whose primary function is to enhance visitor experience through basic conversational and interpretive interactions about nature, wildlife, and Mass Audubon’s mission. As such, they are members of a region’s engagement team, working under the supervision of visitor services staff and/or volunteer management staff.   

Responsibilities:

1.      Activity Carts/Kits/Tables: Facilitate educational hands-on activities designed to highlight Mass Audubon’s education and conservation objectives.

2.      Floater/Greeter: Welcome and engage with visitors, provide general site orientation information, natural history/animal info.

Commitment:  One shift (9am-12pm) pr week from June 29- August 30.

Long Pasture Wildlife Sanctuary is looking for volunteers to “adopt” a wildflower garden plot along our Butterfly Mosaic Interpretive Trail!

The Butterfly Mosaic Interpretive Trail consists of 10 native wildflower “plots” located along a ¼ mile trail in our open field habitat.  Each plot consists of the most utilized nectaring and host plants for native butterfly species.  Using native plants is the ultimate environmentally-friendly garden practice. Wildflowers use fewer resources because they are adapted to tolerate normal regional conditions, and they don’t require intervention with pesticides and fertilizers. Native plants are a part of the local food web and provide nectar for insects, shelter for birds, and food for wildlife. 

The purpose of Long Pasture’s Butterfly Mosaic Trail is to:

1.      Educate through the establishment of an inspiring habitat feature suitable for educational programming.

2.      Increase biodiversity:  Enhance the habitat value of our open fields through the establishment of native wildflowers, thus supporting species in decline such as butterflies and other pollinators such as bees and birds.

3.      Inspire the community to become environmental stewards and provide an enhanced visitor experience.

Responsibilities:

1.      Volunteers will “adopt” a 12’x30’ plot and be responsible for the care of that plot.

1.      Ensuring plants receive adequate water

2.      Weeding to reduce encroachment of surrounding vegetation

3.      Mulching around plants to maintain moisture

4.      Ensuring visibility and proper location of plant ID tags

5.      Plant propagation and movement of plants to ensure visibility and function

Commitment: Two 2-hour visits pr month (evenly spaced) from May through September.

Join us at Ipswich River Wildlife Sanctuary on the last Saturday of every month to help us maintain our sanctuary! Possible projects include invasive species removal, trail clearing, light carpentry, painting, raking and mulching. You will be working alongside our property team for the duration of the project.

To sign up to volunteer, click the “Respond” button. You can then sign in using your existing volunteer account with Mass Audubon, or, if this is your first time using the volunteer system, you will be prompted to create a new account before signing up.

Visitor Center Volunteers welcome all visitors to Joppa Flats Education Center and answer questions they may have about what we do and about the surrounding area. This is a wonderful opportunity to meet people, share interests in nature, all while keeping our front desk running smoothly!

We are looking for volunteers with availability on Thursdays, Fridays, and/or Saturdays. 

 Responsibilities include:

Training is provided, and shifts are 3.75 hours long. 

To express interest in this opportunity, click the "Respond" button. In the "Response Notes," share in a few sentences why you are interested and why you would be an excellent fit for this volunteer role. Please note that this step is only to express interest in this opportunity. A volunteer coordinator will follow up with you about the next steps, which will include a brief conversation and a background check before you begin volunteering.

Become a Baywatcher at Allens Pond!  

For more than 30 years, dedicated Baywatchers have played a vital role in protecting the health of Buzzards Bay and its harbors, coves, and rivers through a long-standing program led by the Buzzards Bay Coalition. At Allens Pond Wildlife Sanctuary, community scientists have been collecting valuable water quality data since 1992, and we’d love for you to be part of this important work.  

We are currently seeking enthusiastic volunteers to help monitor water quality at Allens Pond from May through September. By joining the Baywatchers program, you’ll contribute firsthand to science that helps protect local ecosystems, informs environmental decision-making, and safeguards the future of Buzzards Bay.  

Volunteers participate in regular monitoring sessions, following established, easy-to-learn procedures to collect data on dissolved oxygen, water temperature, salinity, and water clarity. No prior scientific experience is required; just curiosity, reliability, and a love of the outdoors!  

All volunteers attend a training session in May, where you’ll learn best practices, sampling techniques, and the “why” behind the work you’ll be doing. Sampling typically takes place in the early morning, offering a peaceful start to the day in a truly special natural setting.  

Participants should be comfortable walking a short distance over uneven terrain and working near the water. Waterproof shoes are highly recommended.  

Whether you’re passionate about environmental conservation, interested in hands-on community science, or just looking for a meaningful way to connect with nature and your community, this is a rewarding opportunity to make a real difference.  

Join us and help keep Allens Pond and Buzzards Bay healthy for generations to come.

To Express interest in this opportunity, click the "Respond" button. In the "Response Notes," share in a few sentences a little about yourself and why you would be a good fit for this position. Please note this step is only to express interest in this opportunity. Our volunteer coordinator will follow up with you with more information and next steps. 

The crops crew at Drumlin Farm grows over fifty different types of fruits and vegetables - everything from acorn squash to zucchini! Our farmers employ sustainable techniques including field fallowing, soil amendment, crop rotation, and organic pest control. Our produce is sold through our own CSA, to restaurants, and at two farmers markets - in Union Square and Belmont Center. We are looking for volunteers to assist our staff at one or both of these markets. Come lend a hand with stand set-up, stocking vegetables, talking with customers, sharing recipe cards, and breaking down the stand at the end of the session. You can volunteer at one or both markets. Our farmers will be at Union Square on Saturdays from 7:00am -1:00pm starting on May 9. The Belmont market will be on Thursday afternoons from 1:00 to 6:30 starting on June 4. There is flexibility in scheduling the volunteer shifts. In appreciation for your help, you will receive some fresh veggies to take home.

Volunteer with your company- Make a real impact!

Is your company looking for a meaningful way to give back to your community? Bring your corporate group outdoors to Broad Meadow Brook and volunteer your time to protect, restore, and steward our natural space. Please note: Corporate group volunteer opportunities are designed for corporate and organized groups and include a request for philanthropic support alongside hands-on service.

Volunteer Project includes:

These projects are part of Mass Audubon's year-round stewardship efforts, which combine volunteer engagement, staff expertise, and sustained investment to care for our sanctuaries and wildlife habitats. Your team will enjoy a collaborative, outdoor and hands-on experience that strengthens bonds, promotes connection with nature, and delivers a lasting positive impact at the local level.

Details:

This project will take place on Tuesday November 10th, 2026 from 9:00am- 12:00pm for a group of around 15 volunteers. Volunteers will engage in a variety of physical tasks, so please let us know if there are any accommodations needed so that all members of your group can participate! Please plan to bring water, dress in layers and in clothes that can get dirty, with closed-toe footwear.

Contribution and Support:

Corporate group volunteer opportunities are made possible through both volunteer effort and philanthropic support. For corporate and organized groups participating, a financial contribution is a requested part of the experience and helps sustain the land stewardship, tools, staff time, and materials that make these projects possible. Most groups support their volunteer day with a company gift in the range of $500-$2,500 or more depending on group size and scope.

After you express interest, our team will follow up to confirm details and share simple next steps for making your group's contribution.

How to Sign Up:

To express interest in this volunteer opportunity, you will have to create an account in our Volunteer Portal if you do not already have one (please use your company's mailing address as your address!). Then, click the "Respond" button and in the Response Notes on the next page, share the company you're from, the size of your group, and any accommodations your group members may need. Our Volunteer Coordinator will be in touch to make sure the opportunity is a good fit and confirm the details of your volunteer day.

Volunteer with your company- Make a real impact!

Is your company looking for a meaningful way to give back to your community? Bring your corporate group outdoors to Broad Meadow Brook and volunteer your time to protect, restore, and steward our natural space. Please note: Corporate group volunteer opportunities are designed for corporate and organized groups and include a request for philanthropic support alongside hands-on service.

Volunteer Project includes:

These projects are part of Mass Audubon's year-round stewardship efforts, which combine volunteer engagement, staff expertise, and sustained investment to care for our sanctuaries and wildlife habitats. Your team will enjoy a collaborative, outdoor and hands-on experience that strengthens bonds, promotes connection with nature, and delivers a lasting positive impact at the local level.

Details:

This project will take place on Tuesday October 13th, 2026 from 9:00am- 12:00pm for a group of around 15 volunteers. Volunteers will engage in a variety of physical tasks, so please let us know if there are any accommodations needed so that all members of your group can participate! Please plan to bring water, dress in layers and in clothes that can get dirty, with closed-toe footwear.

Contribution and Support:

Corporate group volunteer opportunities are made possible through both volunteer effort and philanthropic support. For corporate and organized groups participating, a financial contribution is a requested part of the experience and helps sustain the land stewardship, tools, staff time, and materials that make these projects possible. Most groups support their volunteer day with a company gift in the range of $500-$2,500 or more depending on group size and scope.

After you express interest, our team will follow up to confirm details and share simple next steps for making your group's contribution.

How to Sign Up:

To express interest in this volunteer opportunity, you will have to create an account in our Volunteer Portal if you do not already have one (please use your company's mailing address as your address!). Then, click the "Respond" button and in the Response Notes on the next page, share the company you're from, the size of your group, and any accommodations your group members may need. Our Volunteer Coordinator will be in touch to make sure the opportunity is a good fit and confirm the details of your volunteer day.

Volunteer with your company- Make a real impact!

Is your company looking for a meaningful way to give back to your community? Bring your corporate group outdoors to Broad Meadow Brook and volunteer your time to protect, restore, and steward our natural space. Please note: Corporate group volunteer opportunities are designed for corporate and organized groups and include a request for philanthropic support alongside hands-on service.

Volunteer Project includes:

These projects are part of Mass Audubon's year-round stewardship efforts, which combine volunteer engagement, staff expertise, and sustained investment to care for our sanctuaries and wildlife habitats. Your team will enjoy a collaborative, outdoor and hands-on experience that strengthens bonds, promotes connection with nature, and delivers a lasting positive impact at the local level.

Details:

This project will take place on Tuesday September 8th, 2026 from 9:00am- 12:00pm for a group of around 15 volunteers. Volunteers will engage in a variety of physical tasks, so please let us know if there are any accommodations needed so that all members of your group can participate! Please plan to bring water, dress in layers and in clothes that can get dirty, with closed-toe footwear.

Contribution and Support:

Corporate group volunteer opportunities are made possible through both volunteer effort and philanthropic support. For corporate and organized groups participating, a financial contribution is a requested part of the experience and helps sustain the land stewardship, tools, staff time, and materials that make these projects possible. Most groups support their volunteer day with a company gift in the range of $500-$2,500 or more depending on group size and scope.

After you express interest, our team will follow up to confirm details and share simple next steps for making your group's contribution.

How to Sign Up:

To express interest in this volunteer opportunity, you will have to create an account in our Volunteer Portal if you do not already have one (please use your company's mailing address as your address!). Then, click the "Respond" button and in the Response Notes on the next page, share the company you're from, the size of your group, and any accommodations your group members may need. Our Volunteer Coordinator will be in touch to make sure the opportunity is a good fit and confirm the details of your volunteer day.

Volunteer with your company- Make a real impact!

Is your company looking for a meaningful way to give back to your community? Bring your corporate group outdoors to Broad Meadow Brook and volunteer your time to protect, restore, and steward our natural space. Please note: Corporate group volunteer opportunities are designed for corporate and organized groups and include a request for philanthropic support alongside hands-on service.

Volunteer Project includes:

These projects are part of Mass Audubon's year-round stewardship efforts, which combine volunteer engagement, staff expertise, and sustained investment to care for our sanctuaries and wildlife habitats. Your team will enjoy a collaborative, outdoor and hands-on experience that strengthens bonds, promotes connection with nature, and delivers a lasting positive impact at the local level.

Details:

This project will take place on Tuesday June 9th, 2026 from 9:00am- 12:00pm for a group of around 15 volunteers. Volunteers will engage in a variety of physical tasks, so please let us know if there are any accommodations needed so that all members of your group can participate! Please plan to bring water, dress in layers and in clothes that can get dirty, with closed-toe footwear.

Contribution and Support:

Corporate group volunteer opportunities are made possible through both volunteer effort and philanthropic support. For corporate and organized groups participating, a financial contribution is a requested part of the experience and helps sustain the land stewardship, tools, staff time, and materials that make these projects possible. Most groups support their volunteer day with a company gift in the range of $500-$2,500 or more depending on group size and scope.

After you express interest, our team will follow up to confirm details and share simple next steps for making your group's contribution.

How to Sign Up:

To express interest in this volunteer opportunity, you will have to create an account in our Volunteer Portal if you do not already have one (please use your company's mailing address as your address!). Then, click the "Respond" button and in the Response Notes on the next page, share the company you're from, the size of your group, and any accommodations your group members may need. Our Volunteer Coordinator will be in touch to make sure the opportunity is a good fit and confirm the details of your volunteer day.

Want to join us? Contact Pam Sowizral for more information or to sign up! Spring, summer, & fall dates available. This is an opportunity suited to adults.

Our farmers grow fifty different types of fruits and vegetables on 30 beautiful acres of Boyce Field – everything from kohlrabi to bok choy. This is local agriculture at its best. Our staff employ sustainable farming techniques including crop rotation, winter cover crops, and creative pest control, along with a major focus on soil amendments. No chemical fertilizers, pesticides or insecticides are used. Our produce is sold through our CSA, to downtown restaurants, at the Union Square farmers market, and at our own produce stand. We also support local food pantries with weekly vegetable donations. Proceeds from the veggie sales sustain the entire sanctuary, including our nature-based programs for children and families.

About the Position:

Mass Audubon is seeking volunteers with biological field experience and commitment to rare amphibian conservation biology to carry out seasonal responsibilities for the Spadefoot Toad Conservation and Wetland Restoration Project at Mass Audubon's Ashumet Holly Wildlife Sanctuary in Falmouth, Massachusetts. Under the direction of the Project Coordinator, volunteers will assist with a variety of field surveys and monitoring efforts focused on the Massachusetts state-listed spadefoot toad (Scaphiopus holbrookii), from native and translocated populations on Cape Cod. Activities include ongoing population monitoring, documentation of breeding activity, wetland habitat management, and data entry duties. Monitoring will primarily be conducted after dusk often during inclement weather conditions. In addition, volunteers are sought conduct weekly water quality measurements in breeding pools.

Qualifications:

Candidates with post-secondary level education are preferred and students pursuing academic degrees in related fields are encouraged to apply. Experience with amphibian monitoring or other field biology techniques will be considered. Knowledge of Cape Cod ecology and natural history is encouraged. Familiarity with MS Office skills (Word, Excel, Access, PowerPoint, Outlook) is preferred. The position requires a valid state driver’s license and daily access to a vehicle.

Additional Information:

A minimum commitment of at least two days per week (either one morning or afternoon for water quality work AND/OR one evening for monitoring) is required for this position. The position starts immediately and runs through September 2026. This is a volunteer position without salaried compensation and Mass Audubon is willing to work with student candidates to obtain academic institutional course credit, if desired.

Become a Climate and Nature Champion – Sign up here! 

Mass Audubon’s Climate and Nature Champions is a grassroots advocacy program that mobilizes individuals across Massachusetts to speak with one voice on the most pressing environmental issues of our time. 

Whether you have been an advocate before or are new to policy work, you can help Mass Audubon fight for land and wildlife protections; clean air and water; and climate and energy policy that will keep us on track to net zero emissions by 2050.   

Levels of participation vary from emailing your representative on a priority issue to organizing a local community around a specific campaign. 

Become an Advocate 

Join our grassroots advocacy network and be the first to know when and how you can get involved. Advocates have the opportunity to attend virtual meetings and trainings with Mass Audubon legislative leaders and experts as well as receive the tools they need to organize on their own.  

Sign up here!

Drop in on the first Saturday of the month, help care for the sanctuary and enjoy a few hours of fresh air, fun and fulfillment.  Walk the trails, put up signs and markers, look for wildlife tracks, pick up branches, and fill the bird feeders. Ability to work without supervision required. 

Surrounded by nature, birds, water, and air that is clean and fresh, Arcadia's Art House located on the Tulip Tree Trail is perfectly situated to serve visitors who wish to connect to the nature around them through art. Art House guided projects combine the interrelated principles of art, nature and science.

May through October, visitors may step inside to find readily available art supplies and instructions and ideas for short and accessible (30-45 minute) nature-inspired art projects including drawing, painting, sculpture, journaling, printmaking, and collage. 

Volunteers help with staffing the Arcadia Art House and running art related activities. You will help greet visitors, direct them to available art projects, and answer questions.

The Art House is open every Saturday from 1-4pm.

Responsibilities

Qualifications

Requirements

Benefits

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.

Assist with seasonal bird banding at Wellfleet Bay, spring and fall (April 15 – June 3 and September 1 – November 15). Birds are caught in mist nets, removed, measured and weighed, banded, and released unharmed. School groups and public programs visit the station. Volunteers are required to devote one or more mornings per week to helping record data and, eventually, remove birds from nets. We also record birds seen and heard during net runs.

Responsibilities:

Qualifications:

Requirements:

Benefits:

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.

Volunteers assist with finding, protecting, and monitoring nests of Diamondback Terrapins, a state Threatened brackish water turtle. Shifts can involve finding and protecting nests with wire cages, inventory of nests, raking nesting areas, excavating hatched nests, and processing depredated nests.

This program runs from June through September. The nesting season, Jun through July, and the hatchling season August through September. Two, one-hour, online or hybrid trainings are provided before each season starts. Shifts are 7 days a week, 8am and 5pm and are led by an experienced shift leader plus one or more additional volunteers.

Responsibilities:

Qualifications:

Requirements:

Benefits:

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.

Assist our science team with monitoring horseshoe crab populations on select Cape Cod beaches during mating season. Help us conduct day and night surveys during full and new moon high tides in May and June to count the number of spawning crabs. Each survey lasts one to two hours, depending on the location and number of crabs present.

Volunteers will ideally sign up for several surveys and be a part of a group of two to five people each survey. Each group has an experienced shift leader to help assure compliance with established protocols, data quality, and safety. Volunteers who attend several surveys are given the opportunity to help with tagging programs capturing crabs and applying USFWS button tags for mark-recapture research.

The Horseshoe Crab Survey program training is held in late April, and surveys are conducted May through June. New volunteers are trained before their first survey date and paired with experienced volunteers on their first couple of shifts.

Responsibilities:

Qualifications:

Requirements:

Benefits:

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.

Help maintain the gardens at Mass Audubon Wellfleet Bay Wildlife Sanctuary. This means weeding, planting/transplanting, and cleaning up last year’s seed heads. Shifts involve working outside, standing, sitting, and kneeling. This is a wonderful opportunity to meet people and share interests in nature. This position is from May through October. Volunteers set their own schedule once trained.

Responsibilities:

Qualifications:

Requirements:

Benefits:

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.

Ecological Management Volunteers play a key role in the enjoyment and safety of all visitors to Wellfleet Bay. They work with our Property Manager on ecological management projects including landscaping, trail maintenance, events setup, and small carpentry projects. This volunteer opportunity is scheduled on Friday mornings from 9am to 12pm, October through June.   

Qualifications: 

Requirements: 

Benefits: 

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.

Support our local Adopt-A-Highway program by picking up trash and litter along Route 6 and West Road, Van Rensselaer’s to Maurice’s Market. Work with our Property Management Team to protect the nature of beautiful Wellfleet for people and wildlife. This opportunity is on the 2nd Tuesday every month, April through October.  

Qualifications:

Requirements:

Benefits:

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.

Naturalists are frontline volunteers whose primary function is to enhance visitor experiences through basic conversational and interpretive interactions about nature, wildlife, and Mass Audubon’s mission. Naturalists are members of Wellfleet Bay’s Visitor Experiences Team and work under the supervision of education, visitor services, and volunteer management staff. The Volunteer Naturalist program runs from May through October with the first training to be held in May.

Responsibilities:

Qualifications:

Requirements:

Benefits:

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.

Front Desk Volunteers greet visitors to Mass Audubon Wellfleet Bay Wildlife Sanctuary and create a strong first impression of Mass Audubon. They warmly welcome visitors, provide excellent customer service, answer questions and ensure an overall positive, inclusive, and enjoyable experience. Volunteers also support selling memberships and promoting additional ways to get involved in the sanctuary and with Mass Audubon.

Qualifications:

Requirements:

Benefits:

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.

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 coordinator will reach out to share more about the program and next steps. This position available for adults and teens age 16 and older.

As a Nature Guide volunteer, you will enhance our visitors' experience through natural history interpretation. With over 50,000 people visiting Drumlin Farm each year, Nature Guides play a key role in welcoming visitors and sharing information on a variety of nature-based topics about birds, animals, plants, the changing seasons... Specially prepared kits will help you engage with both adults and younger visitors. Our Field Teachers provide the training that will prepare you for this position.

This volunteer opportunity is a perfect for those excited by and committed to learn more about nature and share their knowledge with the children, adults, and families who visit our sanctuary. A background in education is a plus, while enjoyment from interacting with the public, a love of nature, and enthusiasm are required!

Responsibilities:

Requirements:

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. 

To express interest in this opportunity, click the "Respond" button. In the "Response Notes," say why you are interested in joining us - thanks!

With over 300 acres of woodland, fields, shrubby edges, and ponds Drumlin Farm is a beautiful sanctuary. With the help of volunteers, our staff maintain these habitats for the benefit of birds & animals and for the enjoyment of the visitors who walk our trails. 

It takes many hands to keep the property in tip-top shape. Join us for our Saturday morning habitat restoration sessions. You will meet like-minded people and learn about nature while you lend a hand cutting back overgrowth, pulling invasive plants, planting native plants, and other projects.

The sessions are held two to three Saturdays per month, year-round weather dependent. The position is physical and requires walking on uneven surfaces and using hand tools. 

Visitor Services volunteers assist staff in welcoming visitors to Ipswich River Wildlife Sanctuary from our parking lot admissions gatehouse or our visitors' center and provide them with information for their visit. 

 Responsibilities include:

Training is provided. Preferred hours would be from 12-3 pm on either Saturdays or Sundays. We are actively recruiting for volunteers to help during our busy season.

To express interest in this opportunity, click the "Respond" button. In the "Response Notes," share in a few sentences why you are interested and why you would be an excellent fit for this volunteer role. Please note that this step is only to express interest in this opportunity. A volunteer coordinator will follow up with you about the next steps, which will include a brief conversation and a background check before you begin volunteering.

As a Trail Steward volunteer, you will help monitor and maintain Felix Neck’s trail system and report any issues, such as fallen trees or rough trail conditions, that you encounter. Felix Neck’s trails meander through woodlands, fields, and along shorelines and, while relatively flat, have roots and boardwalks to traverse along the way. Volunteers will have the opportunity to get to know the sanctuary's trail system well and observe changes throughout the seasons.

Trail Stewards play a key role in helping Mass Audubon maintain safe, welcoming, and pleasant trails for visitors by providing basic trail maintenance and 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:

Requirements

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 of time. Additional safety will be covered in the training. 

Schedule

Trail Stewards can volunteer by hiking the trails at any time the sanctuary is open; dawn to dusk. Volunteers are asked to walk the trails at least once a month. Trail Stewards offers a flexible and independent volunteer experience, but there will also be the opportunity to collaborate with other Trail Stewards and schedule times to work together.

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 coordinator will reach out to share more about the program and next steps.

Our Animal Care Volunteers support the health and wellbeing of our Nature Center animal ambassadors who help connect visitors to local wildlife. These animals play an important role in programs that inspire curiosity and wildlife protection. Volunteers in this role assist staff in maintaining clean, enriching habitats and ensuring animals receive consistent, attentive daily care.  

Animal Care Volunteers’ responsibilities may include:  

Cleaning and maintaining enclosures and tanks 

Maintaining feed worm system 

Care and feeding of marine life  

Care and feeding of turtles and snake 

Assistance in handling some animals 

Making, distributing, and observing enrichment items for the animals

 Availability: At least once per week, year-round  

Qualifications: 

Minimum age of 18 

Comfortable around snakes and turtles 

Interest in wildlife and concern for the environment 

Ability to work with others and independently 

Timeliness and Dependability 

Can commit to a consistent weekly schedule

How to Apply

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 coordinator will reach out to share more about the program and next steps.

Help take care of the beds in the community garden, Nature by the Yard, Preschool, Butterfly Garden, and Gardens behind the Visitor Center.

As a Nature Play Volunteer, you will be a critical part of the Ipswich River Visitor Services team and our visitor experience. This volunteer will be stationed in our Nature Center and facilitate children’s activities for our visiting families. These activities could include things such as natural-based games, story time, and a variety of nature arts and crafts and would change seasonally.

This volunteer position is a great fit for someone who is comfortable welcoming and interacting with families with young children. This volunteer would also be able to promote Mass Audubon membership and answer basic sanctuary visitor questions. Training will be provided.

Volunteer shifts will take place on Saturdays either in the morning or in the afternoon. Shifts will be 2 hours long.

To express interest in this opportunity, click the "Respond" button. In the "Response Notes," share in a few sentences why you are interested and why this is a great volunteer role for you. Please note that this step is only to express interest in this opportunity. A volunteer coordinator will follow up with you about the next steps, which will include a brief conversation and a background check before you begin volunteering.

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 coordinator will reach out to share more about the program and next steps.

As a Trail Steward volunteer, you will monitor Allens Pond's 9-mile trail system and report any issues, such as fallen trees or rough trail conditions, that you encounter. Allens Pond's trails meander through wetlands, woodlands, and uplands, along boardwalks, and across beautiful landscapes. Volunteers will have the opportunity to get to know the sanctuary's trail system well and observe changes throughout the seasons.

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.

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 with your findings

Clipping intrusive brush and branches, 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

Virtual training will be provided and required.

Submit and successfully clear CORI/SORI background check

Watch Trail Steward volunteer training

Be age 18 or older or always accompanied by parent/guardian when volunteering  

Commit to:

Hiking along at least one sanctuary trail at least once a month

Completing report form after each visit detailing what you found on the trails 

Responsibly using the provided Trail Steward equipment and alert Mass Audubon staff if any equipment needs replacing

Demonstrating and modeling responsible behavior on trails

Volunteers also agree to log their completed volunteer hours in our online volunteer portal. This can be done on a personal phone, computer, or tablet. Training on how to enter hours will be provided as part of volunteer orientation. 

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 of time. Additional safety will be covered in the training. 

Trail Stewards can volunteer by hiking the trails at any time the sanctuary is open; dawn to dusk. Volunteers are asked to walk the trails at least once a month.

Trail Stewards offers a flexible and independent volunteer experience, but there will also be the opportunity to collaborate with other Trail Stewards and schedule times to work together.

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 coordinator will reach out to share more about the program and next steps.

To express interest in this opportunity, click the "Respond" button. In the "Response Notes," share in a few sentences why you are interested and why this is a great volunteer role for you. Please note that this step is only to express interest in this opportunity. A volunteer coordinator will follow up with you about the next steps, which will include a brief conversation and a background check before you begin volunteering.

Visitor Center Volunteers are front-facing representatives of Mass Audubon, connecting visitors to all the organization and Moose Hill Wildlife Sanctuary has to offer. Volunteers greet and orient visitors, collect admission payments using a point-of-sale system, look up information in our database, and pitch the benefits of purchasing a Mass Audubon membership. In this role, you'll have the opportunity to promote access to outdoor spaces, foster a sense of belonging for visitors of all backgrounds and experiences, and be part of our larger mission to protect the nature of Massachusetts for people and wildlife.

Responsibilities

Training will be provided.

Qualifications

Schedule/Shift Information

Next Steps

To express interest in this opportunity, click the "Respond" button. In the "Response Notes," share in a few sentences why you are interested and why you would be an excellent fit for this volunteer role. Please note that this step is only to express interest in this opportunity. A volunteer coordinator will follow up with you about the next steps, which will include a brief conversation and a background check before you begin volunteering.

Any and all property, building, and volunteer maintenance located at Allens Pond WS. 

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 coordinator will reach out to share more about the program and next steps.

Drop in on the third Saturday of the month and help care for the sanctuary. Work is outdoors and may include gardening, trail maintenance, tidying, and caring for bird feeders. Ability to work without supervision is required. Children under age 16 must be accompanied by an adult.

Help care for the sanctuary and enjoy a few hours of fresh air, fun, and fulfillment. Assist with a wide variety of property, maintenance, and ecological projects such as buildings and grounds work, trail clearing, gardening, and wildlife monitoring. 

Love Broadmoor & Mass Audubon? Love people? Do you want to help staff welcome visitors? Visitor Services volunteering is a great opportunity for you to get involved in your local Mass Audubon wildlife sanctuary and local community by meeting, engaging, and getting people excited about Broadmoor and everything we have to offer here.
Responsibilities:  

To express interest in this opportunity, click the "Respond" button. In the "Response Notes," share in a few sentences why you are interested and why you would be an excellent fit for this volunteer role. Please note that this step is only to express interest in this opportunity. A volunteer coordinator will follow up with you about the next steps, which will include a brief conversation and a background check before you begin volunteering.

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 coordinator will reach out to share more about the program and next steps.

As a Trail Steward volunteer, you will monitor Long Pasture's 3-mile trail system and report any issues, such as fallen trees or rough trail conditions, that you encounter. Long Pasture's trails meander through beachfront, woodlands, and uplands, along sandy trails, and across beautiful landscapes. Volunteers will have the opportunity to get to know the sanctuary's trail system well and observe changes throughout the seasons.

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.

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 with your findings

Clipping intrusive brush and branches, 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

Virtual training will be provided and required.

Submit and successfully clear CORI/SORI background check

Watch Trail Steward volunteer training

Be age 18 or older or always accompanied by parent/guardian when volunteering  

Commit to:

Hiking along at least one sanctuary trail at least once a month

Completing report form after each visit detailing what you found on the trails 

Responsibly using the provided Trail Steward equipment and alert Mass Audubon staff if any equipment needs replacing

Demonstrating and modeling responsible behavior on trails

Volunteers also agree to log their completed volunteer hours in our online volunteer portal. This can be done on a personal phone, computer, or tablet. Training on how to enter hours will be provided as part of volunteer orientation. 

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 of time. Additional safety will be covered in the training. 

Trail Stewards can volunteer by hiking the trails at any time the sanctuary is open; dawn to dusk. Volunteers are asked to walk the trails at least once a month.

Trail Stewards offers a flexible and independent volunteer experience, but there will also be the opportunity to collaborate with other Trail Stewards and schedule times to work together.

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 coordinator will reach out to share more about the program and next steps.

Visitors Services Volunteers perform day-to-day duties of greeting our visitors to Long Pasture and ensuring an overall positive, welcoming, enriching and safe experience to all members and visitors.  This includes providing excellent customer service while greeting and registering visitors in person, providing orientation to the sanctuary, directing visitors throughout the property and trail systems, answering questions about events and programs, introducing visitors to the many benefits of Mass Audubon membership, and generally educating guests about Mass Audubon.

Visitor Services volunteering is a great opportunity for you to get involved in your local Mass Audubon wildlife sanctuary and local community; meeting, engaging, and getting people excited about Long Pasture Wildlife Sanctuary and everything we have to offer here!   

Responsibilities:

About This Volunteer Position

As an Education Programs Volunteer, you will...

Assist experienced naturalists who lead adult and/or family audience nature learning experiences at sanctuaries and other natural areas.

Help Mass Audubon in achieving our goal of helping adults and families connect with nature and learn how to protect nature now and for future generations.

This volunteer position is a great fit for someone who ...

Enjoys interacting with the public and sharing their passion for nature experiences and conservation.

You will have the opportunity to ...

Spend time learning with and assisting experienced naturalists/educators.

Meet and interact with people who share your interests.   

Learn more about the natural world, conservation science, ecological stewardship.

Responsibilities

As a volunteer, you will assist the program leading with...

Greeting participants as they arrive.   

Checking in program participants.   

Distributing equipment to program participants.   

Supporting participants with using equipment following program leader instruction Serving as “sweep" on programs, taking up rear to ensure no one gets separated from the group.   

Assisting program leader and participants with spotting wildlife, plants, etc. 

Informally share knowledge about nature subjects with participants and staff.

Volunteers may also be asked to ...

Assist program leader with loading and unloading canoes, supplies, or other program material; training will be provided.   

Assist program leader with collecting, cleaning, and stowing program equipment.

Qualifications

A well-qualified volunteer will have...

An interest in sharing your love of nature and conservation with adults and/or families.

Personal experience with bird watching, hiking, canoeing, etc.

A general knowledge of local plants and animals and interest in learning more.

This volunteer position is suitable for...

Adults aged 18 and older

Requirements

Background Checks: CORI and SORI background checks are required for all volunteers

Physical: Walking and standing on uneven terrain in a variety of weather conditions (sun, heat, light rain, etc.) during nature walks, birding programs, and hikes.   

Assist with loading/unloading/moving canoes and other equipment for short periods/distances before and after canoe programs.

Equipment: Mass Audubon will provide all program specific equipment Volunteer is responsible for personal clothing and footwear

Time Commitment: Ability to confirm and commit to assisting scheduled programs. Programs range in length from 1-3 hours and volunteer would need to be available for the duration of the program and approximately 30 minutes before and after the program time.   

Tracking Hours: Volunteers agree to log their completed volunteer hours in our online volunteer portal. This can be done on a personal phone, computer, or tablet. Training on how to enter hours will be provided as part of volunteer orientation.

Safety

Maintaining a safe work environment is a priority of Mass Audubon. Volunteers should dress in long pants/sleeves, wear study, closed-toed shoes, and bring their own snacks and water Any additional safety training required for this position will be provided for volunteers*

*Additional safety training required for canoeing.

Schedule/Shift Information

Volunteer shifts are posted and shared with volunteers for each season of the year and may occasionally be subject to change due to weather or other program scheduling needs.

Next Steps

To express interest in this opportunity, click the "Respond" button. In the "Response Notes," share in a few sentences why you are interested and why this is a great volunteer role for you. Please note that this step is only to express interest in this opportunity. A volunteer coordinator will follow up with you about the next steps, which will include a brief conversation and a background check before you begin volunteering.

With over 107 Wildlife Sanctuaries to explore across the state, the South East region is home to over 4,000 acres of protected land within 22 wildlife sanctuaries, with 7 of those having trails accessible for public use. 

Unfortunately, our team does not have the means to assess every part of our trail systems each week, a total of 27 miles. Trail Stewards help provide our property team with valuable insight by having more eyes and ears on the ground on a regular basis. What better way to volunteer and assist with our efforts of conserving nature then by walking your favorite trail or visiting a new sanctuary all while lending our property team a helping hand.  

Trail stewards will assist with tasks such as cutting back overgrown vegetation, clearing trails of debris, picking up trash and litter, restocking trail maps at trail heads, and reporting any notable violations on the property.

Record what occurred during your shift through this Microsoft form: https://forms.office.com/Pages/ResponsePage.aspx?id=FL2s4J3Wqk6PAn7P8ogjLyT2kfwKmBtCisP6RTf5PxVUNjhVSk8yTzhSMUFHTVJSME9HT0ZXWjFNUCQlQCN0PWcu 

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 coordinator will reach out to share more about the program and next steps.

As a Trail Steward volunteer, you will monitor Great Neck's 4-mile trail system and report any issues, such as fallen trees or rough trail conditions, that you encounter. Great Neck's trails meander through beachfront, woodlands, and uplands, along sandy trails, and across beautiful landscapes. Volunteers will have the opportunity to get to know the sanctuary's trail system well and observe changes throughout the seasons.

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.

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 with your findings

Clipping intrusive brush and branches, 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

Virtual training will be provided and required.

Submit and successfully clear CORI/SORI background check

Watch Trail Steward volunteer training

Be age 18 or older or always accompanied by parent/guardian when volunteering  

Commit to:

Hiking along at least one sanctuary trail at least once a month

Completing report form after each visit detailing what you found on the trails 

Responsibly using the provided Trail Steward equipment and alert Mass Audubon staff if any equipment needs replacing

Demonstrating and modeling responsible behavior on trails

Volunteers also agree to log their completed volunteer hours in our online volunteer portal. This can be done on a personal phone, computer, or tablet. Training on how to enter hours will be provided as part of volunteer orientation. 

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 of time. Additional safety will be covered in the training. 

Trail Stewards can volunteer by hiking the trails at any time the sanctuary is open; dawn to dusk. Volunteers are asked to walk the trails at least once a month.

Trail Stewards offers a flexible and independent volunteer experience, but there will also be the opportunity to collaborate with other Trail Stewards and schedule times to work together.

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 coordinator will reach out to share more about the program and 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 coordinator will reach out to share more about the program and next steps.

As a Trail Steward volunteer, you will monitor Daniel Webster's 3-mile trail system and report any issues, such as fallen trees or rough trail conditions, that you encounter. Daniel Webster's trails meander through wetlands, woodlands, and uplands, along boardwalks, bridges, and across beautiful landscapes. Volunteers will have the opportunity to get to know the sanctuary's trail system well and observe changes throughout the seasons.

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.

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 with your findings

Clipping intrusive brush and branches, 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

Virtual training will be provided and required.

Submit and successfully clear CORI/SORI background check

Watch Trail Steward volunteer training

Be age 18 or older or always accompanied by parent/guardian when volunteering  

Commit to:

Hiking along at least one sanctuary trail at least once a month

Completing report form after each visit detailing what you found on the trails 

Responsibly using the provided Trail Steward equipment and alert Mass Audubon staff if any equipment needs replacing

Demonstrating and modeling responsible behavior on trails

Volunteers also agree to log their completed volunteer hours in our online volunteer portal. This can be done on a personal phone, computer, or tablet. Training on how to enter hours will be provided as part of volunteer orientation. 

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 of time. Additional safety will be covered in the training. 

Trail Stewards can volunteer by hiking the trails at any time the sanctuary is open; dawn to dusk. Volunteers are asked to walk the trails at least once a month.

Trail Stewards offers a flexible and independent volunteer experience, but there will also be the opportunity to collaborate with other Trail Stewards and schedule times to work together.

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 coordinator will reach out to share more about the program and next steps