• Tule elk silhouetted against sunlight reflecting off of Drakes Bay.

    Point Reyes

    National Seashore California

  • Notice to campers staying at Coast Campground:

    The Coast Trail between the Hostel and Coast Campground is closed weekdays while salvage operators attempt to remove a wrecked boat from Santa Maria Beach. The potable water sources at Coast Campground have been shut off. More »

  • 2012 Harbor Seal Pupping Season Closures

    From March 1 through June 30, an annual closure of Drakes Estero and certain beaches of Tomales Bay is implemented to protect harbor seals during the pupping season. Please avoid disturbing seals to ensure a successful pupping season. More »

Volunteer: Habitat Restoration - Intermediate Term

Goals/Outcome of Position:
Volunteers are crucial to the restoration and protection of endangered plant and wildlife habitats at Point Reyes National Seashore. Individuals will work with park staff and interns 1–4 weekdays per month to remove invasive species that threaten native ecosystems. Work projects will be based at various locations throughout the park, and will be focused on removal of high-priority invasive plant species, including cape-ivy, giant plumeles thistle, and jubata grass. Volunteers will be given the opportunity to learn about local plant ecology and invasive species management techniques while making a positive impact on the environment.

Qualifications:

  • Ability to provide own transportation to Bear Valley Visitor Center or project site if necessary
  • Ability to hike moderate distances over difficult terrain and to perform strenuous physical labor; work may involve exposure to poison oak, stinging nettle, and ticks
  • Ability to properly handle tools, follow instructions, and observe proper safety procedures
  • Ability to work on a team with respect for other team members
  • Willingness to learn about invasive species and habitat restoration techniques
  • Minimum age of 18 

Knowledge/Skills/Experience Desired

  • Prefer individuals with experience hiking and/or working in an outdoor setting
  • Interest in local plant ecology and habitat restoration techniques  

Benefits to the volunteer:

  • Training on local plant species identification, habitat restoration techniques, and tool use will be provided.
  • Opportunities to learn data collection methods, including use of GPS
  • Opportunity to interact with park staff and work in scenic locations throughout the park

Program Availability:
Individuals are needed to volunteer with us 1–4 weekdays per month. Workdays would last from 9:00 a.m. until 4:30 p.m. 

Accommodations:
Housing and RV site are not available.

Application and Contact Information:
Please contact Ellen Hamingson at 415-464-5196 or by email to speak about workday opportunities and for more information.

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Did You Know?

Harbor Seal Pup, © Sue Van Der Wal

Harbor seals (Phoca vitulina) are present in the waters of Point Reyes year round. Every spring, approximately 7,000 harbor seals, or 20% of the mainland California breeding population, haul out on the beaches of Point Reyes. Look for them in the esteros and in Tomales Bay and Bolinas Lagoon. More...