Volunteers assist in a variety of ways at DCR properties. Below are some of the most common:
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General clean-ups of an area, including litter and refuse removal.
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Assisting DCR staff with educational programs or events.
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Removing invasive plant species.
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Researching historical or scientific information regarding park resources or property.
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Maintaining a park’s recycling center; sorting recyclable materials from non-recyclable materials.
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Planting flowers, trees or shrubs to enhance landscaping, create habitat or otherwise enhance a DCR property or facility.
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Performing minor trimming or weeding with hand tools.
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Performing trail maintenance activities with hand tools such as removing fallen limbs, trimming brush, and maintaining drainage structures, creating steps, re-blazing existing trails, and maintaining existing bog bridges.
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Organizing activities or events intended to promote public awareness and appreciation for park resources.
Things to be Observed by Volunteers
For the protection of our volunteers and the Commonwealth, the following provisions must be observed by volunteers:
- Volunteers may not operate state-owned vehicles, including pick-up trucks, golf carts, or other vehicles. However, volunteers may ride as passengers in state vehicles only while performing assigned duties or services.
- Although volunteers may not operate state-owned power equipment, volunteers may use and operate personal or Nonprofit Organization-owned power equipment (such as chainsaws) when conducting stewardship activities when these activities have been authorized by DCR in a Volunteer/Stewardship Agreement Form.
- Volunteers may not collect parking fees, camping fees, or other revenue from the public, including disbursement of park funds to the public or other volunteers.
- Volunteers may not wear DCR uniforms or represent themselves as DCR employees.
- Volunteers may not engage in any duty or activity that may be considered direct enforcement of park rules or regulations or other state regulation or law. Volunteers should report any enforcement concerns or issues to park staff.