Get Involved: Natural Areas - Volunteer Naturalist

Volunteer Naturalist

Description:

City of Fort Collins and Larimer County Volunteer Naturalists are volunteers that: 

• provide original public activities for the community based on our area’s unique natural and cultural resources. 

• welcome visitors to Natural Areas and Open Spaces 

• share practical stewardship tips for these special places 

 Volunteer Naturalists care about natural areas and have fun sharing their enthusiasm with others. During the training, presentations by staff, field trips, and opportunities to practice techniques provide naturalist trainees with the skills they need to lead fun, fact-filled, and meaningful programming for all ages.   

Training 

• Mandatory training of approximately 22 hours. 

• Training includes presentations by staff and volunteers, field trips to natural areas, and learning presentation skills. 

• Delivery of a 10-minute interpretive presentation for feedback.   

• Natural Areas’ online orientation. 

• Trailhead Tabling introductory course. 

• Attendance on at least 3 continuing education field trips.  

 Skills and Qualifications 

• Have an interest in natural history and a feel a connection with nature. 

• Be enthusiastic about leading educational activities for different age groups.  

• Possess or be able to learn excellent communication skills. 

• Enjoy public speaking and working with the public. 

• Have a willingness to learn and a desire to share knowledge with others. 

• Must successfully complete the Volunteer Naturalist Training Program, including attendance at training sessions, delivery of a ten-minute, peer-reviewed presentation, and 3 Naturalist continuing education sessions. 

• The training includes both classroom and field trips. Field trips include hiking approximately 0.5-3 miles on paved and unpaved trails, sometimes on rocky ground. Some standing is required. If you have physical limitations, please contact us regarding accommodation. 

• Must be 18 or older. 

Dress Code  

While volunteering the following items must be worn. All are provided: 

• Volunteer name badge/tag  

• Volunteer shirt  

• Proper safety equipment (safety glasses, gloves when required) 

• Volunteer hat (optional) 

 Our Philosophy 

By becoming a volunteer with us, you are joining a long history of community commitment to conservation. Since its inception, the Natural Areas Department has engaged volunteers on every level, from education to stewardship to leadership. Volunteers help extend outreach and strengthen community involvement. We believe that volunteers are one of our most valuable resources.  

Responsibilities & Activities:

• Lead nature walks and original educational programs 
• Staff booths at community events 
• Optional participation in school field trips, trailhead education tables, eagle watches, and youth outdoor clubs with additional training 

• Record your hours and impact through the City’s online system, Engage, and the County’s online system, Offero. 

 Impact 

Volunteer Naturalists are an important and integral part of helping to promote our missions to make Natural Areas and Open Spaces welcoming, enhance visitors’ experiences, and promote a sense of stewardship. Volunteer Naturalists gain a rewarding volunteer experience while enjoying the City of Fort Collins Natural Areas and Larimer County Open Spaces. 

Time Commitment:

• Mandatory training of approximately 22 hours 
• Commit to at least two years of volunteer service.  

• Present a minimum of two programs by the end of the calendar year following training and donate at least fifty hours within two years of training.   

• Attend continuing education opportunities offered by City of Fort Collins and Larimer County when available.  

 

2025 Training Dates

• October 25, 8:30am - 12:30pm
• October 29, 4:30pm - 7:30pm
• November 1, 8:30am - 12:30pm
• November 5, 4:30pm - 7:30pm
• November 8, 8:30am - 1:30pm

 

All sessions are mandatory and will take place at a various Larimer County DNR and Fort Collins Natural Areas' locations. 

Continuing Education Dates TBD, but will take place approximately once per month, December - April.

Volunteer Benefits:

• Interact with people with similar interests. 
• Participate in fun volunteer recognition and social events. 

• Be an integral part of a large well-respected and forward-thinking land conservation and stewardship program.  

• Be truly valued by Natural Areas Department staff and managers.  

• Assist visitors in understanding and appreciating natural areas.  

• Receive a Larimer County Open Space and Parks pass if you complete 20 hours of volunteer service in a calendar year.  

Location:

Various natural areas

Interests:

Field Work - Environment, Field Work - Hiking, Field Work - Outdoor Skills, Education - Natural History

Skills:

Docent/Tour Leader