Get Involved: Larimer County Open Space - Naturalist

Naturalist

Description:

Naturalists develop and lead interpretive programming. They engage in all parts of the interpretive program process including conception, development, and teaching.

Connect visitors to natural places through a fun, fact-filled, and meaningful program for the public. Engage others in a topic you are passionate about. Naturalists are volunteers that provide programs including nighttime programs, guided hikes, and school field trips. Volunteers can adapt an established program or purpose, design, & implement an educational program.

Larimer County Department of Natural Resources (LCDNR) offers a variety of educational programming designed to connect people of all ages and backgrounds to nature and place. Volunteer Naturalists are an important and integral part of Larimer County Natural Resources to promote our mission, enhance visitors’ experiences, inspire curiosity of the natural world and promote a sense of stewardship.

 

Time Commitment:

• Mandatory training of approximately 25 hours including learning presentation skills, interpretive techniques, program development and field trips to natural areas and open spaces.
• Online onboarding and orientation courses.
• Present a minimum of two public programs per calendar year. Public programs occur year-round, typically on weekdays. Campfire programs occur Saturday evenings, June – August.
• Attend at least two qualified continuing education programs provided by agencies.
• Extra time to research, write and practice your interpretive program.

Volunteer Benefits:

• Spend your time outdoors while connecting with and giving back to the community.
• Be an integral part of promoting LCDNR’s mission, enhancing visitors’ experiences, and fostering stewardship values.
• Interact with people with similar interests.
• Learn from experienced staff and volunteers.
• Have access to natural & cultural history resources including a comprehensive library and educational materials (furs, skulls, games, craft supplies and more).
• Gain experience in interpretive program design, development & facilitation.
• Expand your knowledge while sharing your love of the outdoors.
• Participate in fun volunteer appreciation and social events.
• Complete 20+ volunteer hours in a calendar year & receive a LCDNR parking pass.

Documents:

Naturalist Position Description

Requirements: 

• Be interested in natural & cultural history and making a connection with people, nature, and place.
• Be enthusiastic about leading educational activities for different age groups.
• Good communication skills both written and verbal.
• Ability to work independently while developing a program (with support from staff).
• Comfort with speaking to people of all ages and backgrounds.
• Friendly, courteous, respectful, flexible, and a team-player.
• Willingness to work outside in variable temperatures and weather conditions. Some programs require 2-3 miles of hiking.
• Pass a background check.
• Understanding and acceptance of potential risk for this volunteer position such as inclement weather, dangerous wildlife encounters, and unpleasant interactions with members of the public
• Know LCDNR Emergency Response Procedures and be prepared to contact help if there is an urgent problem while you are volunteering. Training provided.
• Abide by all rules, regulations, and safety guidelines while on Larimer County property.

 

Duties:

• Represent Larimer County in a professional manner and include key stewardship and Department messaging into programs.
• Work independently to create and lead formal interpretive programs.
• Overall program creation from start to finish is the responsibility of the volunteer. Volunteers may use pre-developed programs and other education materials as resources.
  • Programs must be approved by staff.
  • Staff will provide coaching on content, program organization, & teaching techniques. We are always considering new program offerings for our community and are open to ideas and suggestions for traditional & non-traditional programming.
• Submit your program proposals through volunteer software, offero.larimer.org, by a specified deadline.
• Have a good understanding of LCDNR rules. Willingness to talk to visitors and address visitors’ concerns or rule violations in a friendly manner.

Skills:

Verbal/Written Storytelling, Conservation Practices, Ecology, Biology, Local History Knowledge, Tour Leader/Docent, Interpretive Skills, Natural & Cultural Knowledge, Teacher, Youth Engagement, Public Speaking, Active Listening, Leave No Trace Principles