Are you interested in Volunteering?

Join us in making a difference! Our volunteers support every program and project at the GTM Research Reserve. You can be a part of a dedicated team by becoming a volunteer.

Our volunteer team is a fantastic group of committed individuals who have a variety of backgrounds and experiences. We could not do what we do without the support and encouragement of our volunteers. Volunteering offers an opportunity to get involved with peers who share the same passion for the estuary and the beautiful natural resources of St. Johns and Flagler counties.

Volunteer Opportunities

The GTM Research Reserve utilizes volunteers in every facet of the organization. We encourage you to try multiple different opportunities.

• Administration – We always appreciate and encourage those interested in helping with administrative duties (e.g., data entry, clerical assistance, and more).

• Education – The reserve helps educate thousands of students of all ages every year in its K-16 environmental education programs, in addition to a variety of community outreach efforts, teacher workshops, and other special events. Volunteers in the education and outreach programs assist with the facilitation of programs, help develop and implement curriculum, and represent the reserve at community events.

• Research – The reserve conducts research and monitoring in several projects that vary from year to year and season. Some projects are led by biologists on staff, some by visiting investigators from academic and other research institutions, and others are led primarily by volunteers.

• Resource Management and Stewardship – The GTM Research Reserve strives to achieve the conservation of natural and cultural resources. The resource management and stewardship teams are consistently working for site protection and enhancement across the boundaries of the reserve. Activities include managing land and water resources, controlling invasive species, reducing environmental stressors, and conducting long-term biodiversity monitoring projects.

How to become a Volunteer

Step 1: Submit an application

• Complete and return a Volunteer Application (linked) to the volunteer coordinator.

• Attend a new volunteer orientation as soon as possible. New volunteer orientations are hosted every first Friday of the month.

Step 2: Attend a new volunteer orientation

• All new prospective volunteers must attend an orientation.

• Orientation agenda includes:

  • Background of the GTM Research Reserve

  • Overview of Available Opportunities

  • Volunteer Rights, Responsibilities, and Benefits

  • How to sign up for volunteer activities

  • How to log your volunteer hours

  • Tour of the Visitor Center

Step 3: Sign up for volunteer activities and report to your assignment

• After attending orientation, take a look at the Volunteer Calendar to view available positions.