Those looking to volunteer at the Ridgefield National Wildlife Refuge will have a free opportunity next month as the annual Refuge Naturalist Training series starts up April 1.
Community members interested in volunteering are asked to head to the refuge for four sessions of training in April, according to a release from the Ridgefield National Wildlife Refuge. All community members are invited to take part regardless of age, experience or background.
“Volunteers play a critical role in welcoming visitors, whether they are discovering our Refuges for the first time or renewing their connection to these public lands,” the release stated. “Volunteers are often the only people they interact with and get to share their stories and questions.”
The topics for this year will be focused on current large-scale restoration projects and what species benefit from the efforts, indigenous cultures as well as how to connect visitors to nature, the release listed. Following the training, volunteers will have the opportunity to get to work greeting people on trails, exploring the refuge with school children, leading guided walks and helping with on- and off-site special events.
New this year is the opportunity for specific volunteer training on the Cathlapotle Plankhouse, the release stated. Those interested specifically in volunteering at the plankhouse are told to ask about becoming a certified Plankhouse docent, who help share Chinookan culture as well as the tribe’s historical village of Cathlapotle.
