Volunteer (NEW)
Many of the projects and events the Fort Worth Nature Center & Refuge (FWNC&R) offer cannot be completed by staff alone. It takes a community of volunteers to ensure we fulfill our mission. If you are interested in helping out at the FWNC&R, we invite you to visit with us and discuss how your talents and skills can help us preserve the Refuge and educate our community.
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Share your passion for the water by becoming a Canoe/Kayak volunteer. Volunteers assist Naturalists on aquatic-related programs for organized groups, the general public, and during special events. Previous canoe and kayak experience preferred. Aquatic programs are held throughout the year on weekends, weekday, and evenings.
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Convey your understanding and appreciation of nature by becoming a Docent at the Fort Worth Nature Center & Refuge. Docents interpret natural history to school-aged students and community groups by leading guided tours, participating in community events, and assisting with public programs. Training is required and provided through a series of weekday and weekend day workshops offered in the fall and spring.
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Get your hands dirty by assisting in the collection, propagation, and maintenance of native plants. Plants grown will be used in restoration projects within the park. Training is on-site. Participants under 18 must be in the company of a legal guardian. The greenhouse volunteers meet every Thursday from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
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Natural Guard volunteers assist in various projects that benefit Refuge visitors, wildlife, and plants. Participants will be outdoors under variable weather conditions. Volunteers must be 18 or older, or 16 if accompanied by a parent or guardian. Training and tools are provided on-site. Natural Guard is scheduled on Thursdays and Saturdays from 9 a.m.-noon.
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Observe, learn, and share daily nature observations with Nature Center guests by becoming a Roving Naturalist. Volunteers will greet park visitors in high-use areas throughout the Refuge and provide one-on-one natural history interpretation while enjoying the outdoors. Training is required and offered quarterly.
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Throughout the year, we have several volunteer opportunities for special events that support the park. Volunteers are needed to plan, coordinate, decorate, set-up/clean-up, and to provide general assistance. Annual events include NatureCon, Trails & Treats/Monster Bash, and Summer Natural History Adventures (nature camp).
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The Hardwicke Interpretive Center is home to a variety of non-releasable Wildlife Ambassadors. Volunteers will assist in providing daily care to these native animals. Participants must be willing to volunteer one day per week or biweekly on weekends. Training is required and offered monthly.