Get Involved: Open Space - Open Space Stewards

Open Space Stewards

Description:

Open Space Stewards work outdoors in Open Space on ecological restoration projects.

Time Commitment:

No minimum number of hours required.

Position Details:

Open Space Stewards work outdoors in Open Space to help restore the ecology. Stewards work directly with the land, getting their hands in the soil and their boots dirty! Stewards may focus on one area, eradicating a large patch of weeds or rove the trails and work on small patches to detect and remove weeds as they find them. Weed removal is an ongoing activity year-round but seeding, planting or watering new plantings are opportunities periodically as well. Group and individual opportunities available.

Key Responsibilities:

• Noxious and invasive weed removal using hand tools year-round.
• Water new plantings using buckets during summer.
• Plant medium size native plants/shrubs and spread native seeds.
• Rove trails individually identifying and pulling weeds or pulls weeds with a group of other volunteers.
• Complete Site Visit form on Engage after every visit.

Requirements:

• Comfortable performing physically demanding tasks such as kneeling for extended periods, walking on uneven terrain, and carrying heavy materials (e.g., buckets of water).
• Some experience with gardening or outdoor work is preferred, but not required.
• Able to represent Open Space in a friendly, inclusive, and welcoming manner while interacting with the public and answering questions in the field.
• Complete background check and sign a volunteer waiver.
• Available to participate in Orientation & Field Training (total of 1 day) in June.
• Has access to reliable transportation to reach Open Space areas.
• Volunteers must be 18 years of age or older. Individuals under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.

Volunteer Benefits:

• Make a direct impact on Open Space lands that support both wildlife and the community.
• Take local action to help strengthen Lafayette’s environmental resiliency in the face of climate change.
• Gain knowledge about native plants, habitat restoration, and Open Space land management practices.
• Enjoy the physical and mental health benefits of spending time outdoors and engaging in hands-on work.
• Choose a flexible volunteer schedule that fits your availability and lifestyle.
• Volunteer on your own or connect with others by participating as part of a group.
• Help enhance Open Space by sharing valuable observations with staff, including public feedback and maintenance needs.

Interests:

Native Plants, Outdoor Skills, Environmental Stewardship, Climate Action, Environment, Conservation, Natural History, Stream Ecology, Ecology, Sustainability, Gardening, Resource Management, Wildlife

Skills:

Local Cultural History, Habitat Restoration, Botany, Gardening/Agriculture, Weed Management, Plant ID