Volunteer Naturalist

Pine Bush Volunteer Naturalists patrol the trails of the Albany Pine Bush Preserve, providing information on Pine Bush ecology, management and history and rules and regulations to visitors.
 

Located in the heart of New York’s Capital District Region, the Albany Pine Bush Preserve consists of 3,400 acres. The Preserve protects a globally rare inland pine barrens ecosystem and a unique diversity of life including the federally endangered Karner blue butterfly and 75 other species of greatest conservation need in New York State. In addition to its ecological significance, the Preserve is an invaluable open space recreational and educational resource for local communities.

The Albany Pine Bush Preserve Volunteer Naturalist Program was created in 1998 with the goal of establishing a consistent educational presence on the trails of the Preserve. The primary responsibility of the Volunteer Naturalists is to promote a greater public understanding of the Albany Pine Bush through person to person education in an informal setting. By raising awareness of the ecology, management and responsible use of the Albany Pine Bush, we hope to foster a sense of stewardship on the part of the public for this unique ecosystem.

 

Pine Bush Volunteer Naturalists are asked to complete at least one trail visit/report every two months.  

 

Following each hike, Volunteer Naturalists complete a trail report where they must report on trail(s) hiked, visitors encountered and spoken to, how visitors are using the preserve and any noteworthy interactions they had.  Additionally, they can provide invaluable information to Pine Bush staff including rule violations, trail conditions, report on flora and fauna that caught their attention, and provide photos and reflections from their walk. 

The Volunteer Preserve Naturalist represents the Albany Pine Bush Preserve Commission as an official educational presence. This position requires interaction with the public as well as hiking over moderate terrain in variable weather conditions. The Volunteer Preserve Naturalist is supervised by the Albany Pine Bush Preserve Naturalist and Educator.

Training for the Volunteer Preserve Naturalist is provided.
 

Date Posted: 10-14-2022

Expire Date: Open until filled

Contact Name: Sarah Reilly, Community Connections Coordinator

Contact Email: volunteer@AlbanyPineBush.org

Additional Instructions:

Contact Sarah for more information or to schedule an interview. 518-456-0655 volunteer@albanypinebush.org