The Nature Conservancy in Indiana is looking for a dedicated volunteer to be the eyes and ears of our Douglas Woods Nature Preserve in Steuben and DeKalb counties.
This 1,327-acre preserve contains one of the largest mature forests in northeast Indiana and features a variety of maple, oak and hickory species. Fish Creek runs through the preserve and is a high-quality stream that provides habitat to several rare mussel species and many types of fish.
As a preserve monitor, you will assist our stewardship staff between their regular visits. Your work and observations will help Douglas Woods Nature Preserve be welcoming and well-maintained for other visitors to enjoy!
Time Commitment: About 2 hours monthly
Days of Week: Volunteer can choose any day of the week to visit
Duties may include:
- Walking the trail at least once a month to observe the condition of the trail, parking area, signs and boundaries.
- Picking up and disposing of trash and litter found on the trail and on roadsides.
- Taking photos of issues that may need to be addressed by staff.
- Cutting back branches that have grown over the trail using pruners or loppers (no chainsaws).
- Moving small branches and debris off trails.
- Monitoring the preserve for illegal ATV use or evidence such as tire tracks.
- Reporting findings to TNC staff after each visit. Staff will discuss any issues and develop a plan to address them.
- Tracking your time and tasks so your efforts can be included in our annual volunteer reports.
- May also assist TNC staff with other trail maintenance and stewardship tasks as needed.
If you are interested in contributing your time and skills, please contact Esmé Barniskis at esme.barniskis@tnc.org.
