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Rocky Mountain National Park gets a huge influx of visitors during the elk mating season, also known as the rut. Elk are commonly seen in the park's meadows during the evenings, and visitors flock to observe them. So the park calls on the Elk Bugle Corps volunteers. The Elk Bugle Corps started in 1990. Each fall, about 90 volunteers give 2200 hours to the park. Every night during the rut, they go out in the park and talk with visitors who are observing the elk. They also help prevent traffic jams, a common occurrence on fall evenings. Sometimes visitors need a reminder that elk are wild animals, best observed from the road. The presence of the Elk Bugle Corps keep visitors safe. The volunteers also teach visitors about elk ecology. When bus tours are offered, Corps members narrate the talks. They also give formal programs at the amphitheater in Moraine Park. And of course they have informal conversations with roadside visitors. So, when you come to the park this fall, give a salute to the Elk Bugle Corps volunteers. Want to join next year? Better contact the volunteer office now. It is a very popular job. |
Last updated: March 31, 2012