Become a Docent

Be a part of this community-wide program that protects, restores, and informs people about the Watsonville Wetlands.

The 2010 Docent Training Program has ended. Although the next training starts early in 2011, there are always a variety of volunteer opportunities.

In 2010, docents trainees were treated to an inside look at the Pajaro Valley and its wide network of wetlands. Local experts shared the ecology, history, and restoration of the wetlands during the 7-week program, which included Wednesday evening presentations and Saturday morning field trips.

New docents are prepared to lead walks and assist with field trips. Docents also have the opportunity to help with community events, participate in wetlands restoration, work in the library or greenhouse at the Fitz Wetlands Education Resource Center, and work on special projects. You do not have to be a docent to volunteer for many of these activities. To learn more about what it's like to be a docent, see this article about docent Joan Rose.

After training, docents give four hours a month with some combination of

• assisting with student field trips,
• leading tours on Watsonville's wetland trails,
• participating in hands-on restoration projects,
• hosting and planning special events,
• working in the greenhouse or the Native Plant Demonstration Garden,
• acting as host of the Patrick J. Fitz Wetlands Educational Resource Center or helping in the library,
• working on special projects, like creating interpretive tools or doing research .

Benefits of becoming a docent

• A copy of our award-winning book, Watching the Watsonville Wetlands.
• Frequent enrichment opportunities.
• Increased knowledge of local wetlands ecology and history.
• Interpretation skills.
• A host of new friends.

To find out more about volunteering or sign up for docent training, please call our Volunteer Coordinator, Kathy Fieberling at 831-345-1226. () .