Northwoods, Great Lakes Volunteer Opportunities

Hike Naturalist

Two Harbors- MN

Available 2010-06-01 to 2010-09-30
:00 AM to :00 AM

Provide naturalist interpretation for guided day hikes on the Superior Hiking Trail. The Superior Hiking Trail follows the ridgeline along Minnesota`s North Shore of Lake Superior.

More information »


Seed Collection at the Sand Coulee/Rare Prairie

Sand Coulee Scientific and Natural Area- near Hastings

Available 2010-10-02 to 2010-10-02
09:00 AM to 12:00 PM

Enjoy a hands-on seed identification and collection training while enjoying a rare example of a sand gravel prairie. Seed will be used for further habitat restoration. Large quantities — of volunteers and seed alike — needed! Previous seed collection is not required — all abilities and groups are welcome. This activity- though- is very detail oriented and best suited for teenagers and up.

More information »


Raingarden Workshop

Como High School- St. Paul

Available 2010-09-23 to 2010-09-23
06:30 PM to 08:30 PM

Many people don’t realize that some standard lawncare practices can cause serious damage to nearby lakes- streams and rivers. However- homeowners interested in preserving local water quality can start right in their own backyards. The natural beauty and practical benefit of a raingarden make it an increasingly popular choice for home landscapers who want to do their part to improve water quality- and many residents seek resources on how to add these lovely features to their yards- schools- and businesses. Join a landscape ecologist from Metro Conservation Districts to learn what a raingarden is- how to build one- and why they can be important for our lakes- rivers and wetlands. The workshop will take a how-to approach- giving participants information about: • where a raingarden should be placed- • soil preparation- • plant selection- and • other nuances of raingarden construction. Printed materials about will be provided for participants. Please note: There is a $10 admission for the workshop. All participants will receive the Blue Thumb Guide to Raingardens (normally $20)- and one lucky participants will receive a free rainbarrel- courtesy of the Capitol Region Watershed District.

More information »


Vermillion River Cleanup

CP Adams Park- Hastings- MN

Available 2010-09-25 to 2010-09-25
09:00 AM to 12:00 PM

Help pick up litter along the Vermillion River during the low water levels of autumn- helping to beautify this trophy trout stream! CP Adams is a 40-acre park roughly a mile south of downtown Hastings. Volunteers will be picking up in areas near lakes and wetlands that feed/border the Vermillion River. The park is known for both its recreational activities — such as its frisbee golf course and paved trails — and high-quality natural areas. After receiving garbage bags and gloves- volunteers will walk and collect litter and other debris that has accumulated along the river and floodplain over the summer months. All supplies are provided and FMR staff will be on-hand for further direction and support as needed. Lunch will be provided at the conclusion. This event is part of the Vermillion Stewards program- which helps local residents learn about the watershed while working to protect and enhance its unique natural resources.

More information »


Don't forget to check out our blog for more volunteer opportunities which may not be listed above!