Preserve Monitor

Would you like to become more involved in your favorite preserve? Then consider becoming a Preserve Monitor

Mission: Washtenaw County Natural Areas Preservation Program holds unique natural areas in the public trust to ensure their preservation for the benefit of all County residentsplants, animals and people!

Purpose of this position: Preserve Monitors are our eyes and ears on the ground. As a Preserve Monitor, you will walk through your favorite natural area on a regular basis and note conditions at the time of the visit. You can generally keep an eye on the preserve, or if you have interest/expertise in botany or wildlife you can also report animal and plant observations.

Typical Duties: Hiking the trails. Examining the condition of the trails, kiosks, parking lots and signs, and removing trash if present. Report any maintenance issues to staff. Post upcoming event announcements on the kiosk.

Required Qualifications:

• A willingness to walk the preserve
• Able to work independently
• Be able to make periodic reports to staff by email, phone or in person.

Estimated total time commitment: 2-10 hours per week

Preferred day and/or time of the week: Any

How will a volunteer benefit from this position? Being a Preserve Monitor gives you the opportunity to be in nature and get some exercise, while helping to protect critical habitats. You will also learn to identify the habitats within the preserve and learn about the ongoing management of the natural area. You will have the opportunity to work with staff to monitor the effects of management activities.

How does this project assist NAPP? It is essential that our natural areas are welcoming, safe, and cared for. Preserve Monitors play a critical role by providing regular feedback to county staff, allowing us to respond quickly to issues that may affect our visitors.

For more information about Washtenaw Countys Natural Areas Volunteer program:

Shawn Severance, Parks Naturalist
severances@ewashtenaw.org
(734) 971-6337 x 335

Washtenaw County Parks & Recreation
napp.ewashtenaw.org
PO Box 8645
Ann Arbor, MI 48107