VOLUNTEER

There are many different types of volunteer opportunities through Minnesota Valley Refuge Friends

INFORMATION DESK
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Positioned at the main entrance of the Bloomington Education & Visitor's Center, inside the Blufftop Nature Store

​-Greet and welcome guests to MN Valley National Wildlife Refuge
-Help customers find and purchase items at the Nature Store
-Field questions about trails, wildlife sightings, management, etc. (there is a list of rangers who are available to come answer the tough questions) 

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ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION

Programs are available at the Refuge's Bloomington & Rapids Lake Education & Visitor Centers and in nearby elementary schools.

​-Remind Chaperones of guidelines for exploring on the Refuge
-Help students use equipment, such as field microscopes, binoculars, and compasses
-Assist practicum interns with handing out materials and answering questions

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URBAN OUTREACH
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Activities are stationed 80% in the community (City Parks, after-school programs, etc), and 20% at the Visitor Center

​-Work with diverse youth and families
-Be sensitive to cultural and language barriers
-Encourage and uplift participants to engage with nature

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TRAIL RANGER
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Located on the Minnesota Valley National Wildlife trail system

​-Hike trails and report on conditions and visitor activity levels

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HABITAT RESTORATION
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​-Weeding and maintaining the butterfly/pollinator gardens at the Visitor's Center
-Invasive species removal on the trails
-Seed collection of prairie grasses and forbs

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​​Interested in volunteering? Contact us here.