Conservation

Volunteer Event Details

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Public Events

Join a volunteer project by searching through our scheduled events. All members of the public, both youth and adults, are encouraged to join an event that interests them. 

Questions?

Private Events

If our calendar of scheduled events does not work well for your group, please reach out to inquire about a private event option for your group. Early planning is key!

Questions?

  • Melissa Dempsey, Volunteer Coordinator

Volunteer Event Details

Registration

  • Registration is required for each event. Check out our current list of scheduled events. Registration is requested by noon the day prior to each event. If the event is at capacity or you missed the deadline for registration, contact Volunteer Coordinators to inquire about participation.
  • By registering for a volunteer event, I acknowledge that there is typically a registration waitlist and that some events include a provided meal. In the event that I and/or members of my group are unable to attend, I will cancel my registration to allow for others to join this event.

Cost

  • All events are free to registered participants. 
  • Certain events, namely our signature annual events, offer a meal, an event t-shirt, prize raffles, and/or camping. These incentives are offered at no cost to registered participants. Check the event description for these offerings. 

Physical Difficulty

  • Each volunteer event or activity carries with it various degrees of difficulty. Some tasks require more strenuous effort such as heavy lifting, prolonged standing or bending, or other manual labor that may be impacted by a volunteer's physical capability. The physical difficulty of any volunteer activity will be noted in it's event description on a scale of easy, moderate, or difficult.

Ages

  • Volunteer events are setup with people of all in mind. Keeping safety at the forefront:
    • The use of manual tools such as loppers and hand saws are reserved for individuals ages 12+.
    • The use of power tools is reserved for ages 18+.
  • We will do our best tailor each workday to fit the needs and abilities of all present but note that each event description will have the recommended minimum age.

What to Wear & Bring

  • It is recommended to dress for the weather. Wear long pants and closed-toe shoes. Layered shirts are your friend. Check with volunteer coordinators if you are unsure of the appropriate clothing to wear for the specific project or time of year in which you are participating.
  • Bring a pair of gloves, if you have them - gloves provided for those without.
  • In an effort to promote sustainability at this event, please bring a refillable water bottle.
  • Each event participant will be provided proper personal protective equipment and training as needed.
  • Old shoes, boots, or waders are recommended for stream cleanups. PCC staff has a limited amount of waders and gloves available for those without. 
  • Earbuds are welcome for those who enjoy listening to music, podcasts, audiobooks, etc. while volunteering.

Park and Trails Maps & Addresses

  • View our parks and trails here for maps and addresses of PCC-managed areas where we host volunteer events. Volunteer Coordinators will provide the exact meeting location within the park or trail in each event listing the day prior to each event. 

Inclement Weather Cancelations

  • If inclement weather is approaching and a workday must be canceled, a message indicating the cancelation will be left at 515.323.5396. In the absence of a cancellation message, the workday will proceed as planned.

Contact

Volunteerism for All

To assure safety and to provide the best possible volunteer experience, Polk County Conservation asks and expects volunteers to follow a Code of Conduct .

Polk County Conservation strives to host inclusive, accessible events and meetings that enable all individuals to participate. If you anticipate needing a modification due to a disability or have questions about accessibility, please contact us at 515-323-5300 or pccb_info@polkcountyiowa.gov.