Volunteer

School program docents are enthusiastic nature-lovers who help connect schoolchildren with the magic and mystery of the natural world through All Hands Ecology’s School Program. Training required: Docents receive core training in environmental education practices and local natural history. Commitment: leading school trips several times during the fall and spring seasons. Field trips and trainings are typically scheduled Tuesday–Friday. 2026–27 training: 5 days required* training plus optional refresher gatherings: Sept 9* (Bouverie Preserve, Glen Ellen), Sept 18* (Martin Griffin Preserve, Stinson Beach), Sept 22 or 24 (either location), Nov 20* and Feb 23* (Bouverie Preserve), March 2 or 4 (either preserve), and May 14* (Martin Griffin Preserve). New docents are required to shadow some school programs in the fall and partner teach some programs in the spring. Q&A session on Zoom: Thurs, Aug. 27.

Volunteers go into classrooms to lead a 90-minutes interactive session on mountain lions after students have completed a lion lesson series. We work with third through fifth grade, one class at a time. Complete a two-day content training, then in-class training co-teaching with an experienced Lion Ambassador. Teachers sign up for dates, and volunteers select those dates that suit their schedules, preferably a minimum of five per year.

Bouverie Preserve Stewards assist with habitat protection and restoration work on 500 acres of diverse native ecosystems. Under the supervision of our stewardship team, you will contribute to fuel reduction efforts, invasive plant monitoring and removal, trail maintenance, and light landscaping. Most projects require an ability to hike moderate to difficult terrain. Commitment: You can participate just once or as many times as you like. When: Mondays from 8:30 a.m. – noon year-round.

Volunteers assist the project by traveling in teams of 2 to camera sites located on private and public properties across Sonoma and Napa Counties. Volunteers collect and replace memory cards that contain photo images from the cameras and record camera data at each location. Volunteers provide overall project updates to landowners if asked. Minimum commitment: 4-6 hours, 1 day every 12 weeks, min 1-year commitment. Typical schedule: Weekdays, usually Fridays (unless otherwise requested). Starting location is Glen Ellen; volunteer must use own vehicle to travel between camera locations. Possible poison oak exposure. Training provided.