Nature Center Docent

Nature Center Docents (NCD) staff the David C. Daniels Nature Center located at Alpine Pond in Skyline Ridge Open Space Preserve.

The Daniels Nature Center is open on weekends April to mid-November. Nature Center Docents greet visitors and share information about Midpen preserves.

Enjoy a peaceful peek at Alpine Pond without leaving home via Midpen's Alpine Pond Webcam. Check back often to see what wonders nature has to share at the pond and compare your observations each time you make a virtual visit. 

Responsibilities

• Share environmental and natural history information; engage visitors with interactive exhibits.
• Conduct hands-on activities (pond ecology, wildlife viewing, etc.) with visitors.
• Stock maps and brochures.
• For an up-to-date Nature Center Docent volunteer position description, please email the Environmental Education Specialist.

Training

Training consists of one 2-hour evening orientation at the Administrative Office, and one half-day weekend training session (3-4 hours) at the nature center. You'll observe minimum of one shift shadowing an experienced Docent.

• In the training, you will learn how to operate the Nature Center, how to engage visitors with the exhibits and nature of Alpine Pond, and learn about local natural history.
• Click Become a Fan to be notified of the next available training.

Requirements

• We ask for a commitment of one shift at least per month when the Nature Center is open.
• Participate in at least 2 of 4 quarterly docent meetings per year.
• Submit an application and schedule a brief interview with Midpen staff. 
• Submit a Volunteer Liability Waiver.
• Fingerprinting and background check. This is required of all Docents and staff who work with youth. 
• Must be at least 18 years of age. Previous experience working with the public, youth, and involving nature/environment is desirable but not required. Midpen provides all necessary training and ongoing enrichment opportunities.

Submit your interest to join the NCD program by clicking Become a Fan in the upper right corner of this page.

When you click Become a Fan, you will be asked to make an account if you don't already have one; only Midpen staff will have access to the contact information you provide. We will notify you of upcoming trainings and opportunities to get involved.

If you have questions about this program, please email Jeff Butterworth, Environmental Education Specialist