Get Involved: Larimer County Open Space - Park Steward

Park Steward

Description:

Park Steward volunteers foster responsible land stewardship by maintaining and improving Larimer County parks to preserve the natural landscape. They assist staff with maintenance at Rotary Park, Horsetooth Reservoir. Volunteers must be able to pick up and carry heavy supplies plus scramble and climb down boulders with paint supplies. Maintenance projects include painting over graffiti at the "cave" and picking up trash. Park Steward volunteers preserve the natural beauty and scenery of iconic Horsetooth Reservoir.

Time Commitment:

A regular two (2) hour shift; weekly or bi-weekly from April - October (weather permitting).

Training:

• New Volunteer Orientation (includes overview of expectations, policies, emergency response procedures, etc.)
• On-site training with Horsetooth District maintenance staff

Volunteer Benefits:

• Spend your time outdoors while giving back to the community
• Be an integral part of promoting LCDNR's mission, enhancing visitors' experiences, and fostering stewardship values
• Learn from experienced staff and volunteers
• Be physically active outdoors
• Know that you are making a difference and a visible impact
• Flexible schedule
• All tools & equipment provided
• Participate in fun volunteer appreciation and social events
• Complete 20+ volunteer hours in a calendar year & receive a LCDNR parking pas

Documents:

 

Requirements:

• Enjoy working outside
• Work a regular schedule (weekly or bi-weekly)
• Must be friendly, courteous and respectful
• Able to work independently
• Follow guidance, directions and safety instructions of LCDNR staff and other volunteers
• Good communication skills
• Be in good physical condition: ability to lift up to 50 lbs., walk at least a mile, climb down steep terrain, bend, stoop, push and reach
• Be flexible to accommodate changes in weather
• Experience with physical labor skills such as maintenance, handyman, construction, etc. are helpful but not required
• Ability to provide own transportation
• Comfortable with utilizing computers and reporting data in a timely manner
• Abide by all rules, regulations, and safety guidelines while on Larimer County property
• Understanding and acceptance of the potential risks for this volunteer position such as inclement weather, potentially dangerous rattlesnake or other wildlife encounters, and hiking-related injuries.

Duties:

• Weekly or bi-weekly schedule time to paint over graffiti and pick up trash, April - October
• Drive between Rotary Park and Horsetooth Reservoir maintenance shop (about 20 minutes round trip)
• Pick up & drop off supplies at the Horsetooth Reservoir maintenance shop
• Pick up and carry heavy supplies; scramble and climb down boulders with paint supplies
• Paint over graffiti at the "cave" which takes about 1-2 hours
• Pick up trash including small or micro pieces. Focus on area around the "cave" and day use areas. Report any hazards such as sharp or unsafe items
• Listen to and follow all safety guidelines and instructions given by LCDNR staff or volunteer leaders
• Communicate regularly with staff via phone, text or email
• Use offero.larimer.org, LCDNR's volunteer software, to record your volunteer time and report any maintenance issues
• Dress appropriately. Typically, this includes wearing sturdy closed-toed shoes, sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen), water, snacks/lunch, clothing layers for variable weather conditions, leather work gloves, and anything else you'll need for working outdoors
• All tools and project materials are provided