“Volunteering is one of the best, most certain ways we can find a purpose and meaning in our life,” Val Walker, author
Looking for a way to join others to support conservation, restoration, and environmental education in Pacific County? The Friends has a place for you! We have exciting opportunities for everyone to help, regardless of physical ability or previous experience. Volunteering is a wonderful way to meet others with similar interests, while performing meaningful work.
Contact the Friends of Willapa volunteer coordinator at willapa@fws.gov.
We will add you to the volunteer list and contact you when there is an opportunity for the tasks that interest you. You will also receive the Friends newsletter and can check our Facebook page for other volunteer activities.
Here are some examples of how Friends volunteers can help. Some of these options are outdoors, and while we cannot guarantee perfect weather for our work, we can promise a fun time!
Trail Maintenance
Refuge trails need periodic maintenance, and Friends volunteers rotate through the various trails throughout the year or as needed. Most of this work involves light physical labor, and tools are provided. Time involved: about two to three hours.
Invasive Species Removal
We also help remove invasive plant species, such as holly, gorse, and Scotch broom. This work involves medium/light physical labor. Time involved: about three hours.
Environmental Education
From February through May, Friends volunteers visit 4th grade classrooms in Pacific County to teach about our environment and the importance of wildlife refuges. At the end of the program in May, volunteers lead the 4th graders on a Refuge field trip to put into practice what they have learned. See our Environmental Education Program for more information.
Information Booths
Volunteers provide information about the Friends and the Refuge at local festivals, markets, and other events.
Wings Over Willapa and Other Events
Planners, greeters, ticket takers, moderators, set-up, and clean-up crews—just a few of the volunteer opportunities needed at Friends events. If you are interested in volunteer opportunities at the Friends of Willapa National Wildlife Refuge, contact us at willapa@fws.gov. Can’t volunteer but still want to support us? Join as a member!
Friends of Willapa National Wildlife Refuge PO Box 845 Ocean Park, WA 98640 Email info@friendsofwillaparefuge.org