Getting Started in Environmental Care
For those who want to be actively involved in caring for our environment, there are many opportunities available.
Most towns have special "clean up" or "recycle - reuse" days, held usually in the spring, and often in conjunction with Earth Day. Volunteer your services for the day or for the project. Ask your Mayor, Town Council or Recycling Center what you can do to help care for our environment.
States also have volunteer opportunities. The Natural Resources Conservation Service (originally called USA Soil Conservation Service) uses volunteers for both short-term and longer-term projects. Opportunities to serve can be found at your State Natural Resources Conservation Service. Other opportunities are available through statewide organizations such as the E.P.A.
The US government provides a myriad of opportunities for short-term and long-term volunteer commitments. Work is in a number of fields including Archaeology, Back Country/Wilderness, Botany, Campground Hosts, Construction/Maintenance, Computers, Conservation Education, Fish/Wildlife, General Assistance, Historical Preservation, Pest/Disease Control, Minerals/Geology, Natural Resources Planning, Office/Clerical, Range/Liverstock, Research Library, Science, Soil/Watershed, Timber/Fire Prevention, Trail/Campground Maintenance, Tour Guide/Interpretation, Visitor Information, and Weed/Invasive Species Control. Some of these jobs provide internships, pay small stipends and some provide housing or RV hookups. Most are located at National Parks or Preserves. Each job listing indicates what age group/person the job is suitable for and if there are any education requirements. This is a great way to learn about our environment and, in the case of students, get job training for a future profession.
The Government also provides a website which lists other volunteer opportunities provided by groups such the Environmental Protection Agency, USDA Forest Service, Take Pride in America, National Youth Service Day, and Freedom Corps.
