GET INVOLVED - NATUREWORKS PARK
VOLUNTEER WITH US.
NatureWorksPark offers a variety of volunteer opportunities for groups and individuals to dedicate their time and talents — whether it's a one-time service or a long-term commitment. Working alongside our District staff, we welcome anyone with an interest in our community, conservation, and the natural world.
COMMITMENT
One day or ongoing
AGES
9 & up
— A volunteer network for conservation
Lend a hand. Learn the land.
Volunteers play a key role in carrying out the mission of the Blair County Conservation District — helping protect, preserve and enhance Blair County's natural resources. Through hands-on stewardship you'll connect with, learn about, and advocate for the natural world right here at NatureWorksPark.
There's a role for every level of experience and every kind of schedule, from a single afternoon of planting to a season of caring for the trails. More importantly, we look forward to learning from you.
Two Levels
Year-round
In The Park
putting the cover on a hoophouse
— WAYS TO HELP
Find the work that fits you.
Our volunteer stewards keep the park healthy across every season. Hover a card to see what each role involves — pick one, or pitch in across several.
March & October · sometimes off-site
- Plant trees and live stakes in the fall
- Carry out buffer maintenance in the spring
- Help restore and protect local waterways
SEASONAL EVENTS
- Serve as a docent or parking attendant
- Prep before events — clean signs, set up tents, help vendors
- Run teaching stations at Water Festivals
- Help with the Monday drop-in program, 10 am–12 pm
YEAR - ROUND
- Collect water-quality data with the Stream Guards network
- Gather natural materials — pinecones, pods, berries, feathers
- Supply our seasonal wreath-making classesaserve as a mediat
June – August
- Invasive plant maintenance & weeding
- Planting, mulching and watering the beds
- Keeping the demonstration gardens healthy
Trails: May & Aug · Trash: Year-round
- Trash pick-up and emptying cans, year-round
- Weed, trim and mulch the Wildlife Trail
- Keep paths clear and welcoming for visitors
September & February
- Clean out boxes once the season's birds have left
- Check boxes for maintenance issues
- Make sure each box is secure for next season
— How involved you'd like to be
Two tiers, one welcome.
Every volunteer signs the BCCD Volunteer Acknowledgement, Release & Hold Harmless Agreement once a year. After that, choose the tier that matches the commitment you're after.
Tier 1 · Drop in & help
The easiest way to get started
Min age
commitment
TRAINING
Minimal commitment, on a regular basis. Sign up, show up, and pitch in — no previous training or experience required. One-time volunteers are always welcome.
- Riparian buffer restoration events
- Gardening events
- Community bird counts
- Corporate & large-group volunteer days
Tier 2 · Skilled & ongoing
A flexible, regular role
Min age
commitment
TRAINING
We ask you to volunteer regularly, but you pick your own schedule. Some roles include a short orientation — usually on the day — and may involve working near youth.
- Supporting special events — Earth Day, Water Festivals
- Volunteer docents
- Park & rain-garden maintenance
- Corporate & large-group volunteer days
*A background check may be required for roles with increased independence or proximity to youth.
— What you can expect from us
A rewarding place to give your time.
Volunteering with the Blair County Conservation District should feel as good as it does useful. Here's what we promise in return.
Meaningful work
Necessary, hands-on tasks that genuinely serve the community and the resource.
An informative orientation
You'll never be thrown in cold — we'll show you the ropes before you start.
A supportive climate
A welcoming space where volunteers work together, grow, and feel they belong.
Real recognition
We track and celebrate volunteer contributions — your hours genuinely matter.
A fulfilling experience
An interesting, engaging way to serve — and to learn something new every visit.
A say in it all
We want your feedback. Tell us how to make the volunteer program even better.
— How to reserve
Three steps to your first day.
Sign the volunteer agreement
Complete the BCCD Volunteer Acknowledgement, Release & Hold Harmless Agreement — once per year. Print it at home and bring it, or fill out the form digitally before you arrive. Signed forms are kept at the District office.
Guidelines
Release Form
Reach out to the Volunteer Coordinator
Contact Lisa Haas to sign up for an opportunity that fits your interests and schedule. Tier 1 volunteers sign up per event; we'll let you know about any short orientation.
Show up & sign in
Arrive on time and sign in on the event sheet (Tier 1) or report your hours to your coordinator (Tier 2) — travel and at-home time count. If your plans change, just let us know as soon as you can.
BEFORE YOU ARRIVE
A few essentials
- Ages 9+ for Tier 1 events; 16+ for special-event roles.
- Wear close-toed shoes and dress for the weather and the work.
- Bring water — there's no running water on site.
- Park & events are smoke- and weapon-free; tell us about any access needs.
Volunteer Safety
Looking out for each other.
Your safety comes first, always. Keep these basics in mind — your coordinator will cover them before every event.
Trails & terrain
Minimal commitment, on a regular basis. Sign up, show up, and pitch in — no previous training or experience required. One-time volunteers are always welcome.
Tools
Stay aware of your surroundings, keep tools in plain sight and clear of tripping hazards, never run with them, and ask if you're unsure how to use one.
Hazardous plants
Poison ivy and prickly invasives grow here. Stay on trails unless directed otherwise — training covers identification and what to do on contact.
Take care of yourself
Eat beforehand, stay hydrated, and take breaks. If you feel weak or tired, don't power through — let someone know.
The rule of two
Wherever possible, work alongside or close to at least one other volunteer or staff member. With youth on site, never be alone with a child.
If something happens
Assess the situation and call 911 if needed — the park address is 108 Bedford Street. Report any injury to your coordinator right away, even if you don't seek care.
— Ready to lend a hand
Join the
network.
Reach out to a coordinator to find your first opportunity. We're grateful for whatever time, talent and enthusiasm you can share.