The Nature Conservancy in Indiana is looking for a dedicated volunteer to be the eyes and ears of our Henderson Park preserve in Washington County.
This 400-acre preserve features upland oak forests, waterfalls, karst cave features and limestone glades. Glade habitats support forest interior birds, the federally endangered Indiana bat and cave communities. An array of spring ephemerals and summer prairie plants blanket the understory and make for wonderful spring and summer views.
As a preserve monitor, you will assist our stewardship staff between their regular visits. Your work and observations will help Henderson Park be welcoming and well-maintained for all 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.
