2026 Orchard Docent

Capitol Reef National Park is looking for dedicated volunteers to help park staff with managing the park’s historic orchards.

DESCRIPTION

The Fruita historic fruit orchards were first planted by Mormon pioneers in the late 1880’s and have been in production ever since. In early days the fruit provided an important food source, and was later exported throughout Utah and neighboring states as the community and infrastructure grew. The orchards are now managed by the NPS to continue providing visitors with fruit, as well as a glimpse into historic growing practices and their importance to the area’s legacy. The orchards contain over 40 historic fruit varieties, including rare varieties of peach, plum, apple, cherry and apricot. The park is seeking several orchard docents who are able to volunteer regularly to help communicate this important history to visitors, and assist with summer harvest operations.

DUTIES

Orchard docents will discuss orchard history and importance with visitors, assist with fruit harvests during summer and fall, and may work with park employees to collect scientific data. Docents may staff orchards to answer questions about picking fruit, lead orchard tours for interested guests, and assist with events like fruit tasting and cider pressing. Apply to speak further with an orchard staff member.

QUALIFICATIONS

Volunteer should be able to stand for an hour at a time, walk on rough and uneven ground, lift up to 15 pounds, and work independently. We are looking for individuals who possess good interpersonal skills and who are confident speaking with visitors of various backgrounds in the orchards. A driver's license is required.

SUITABILITY

Opportunity is suitable for all adults, 18+.

WORK SCHEDULE

Schedule and hours are flexible. Volunteers should commit to at least two days a month.

SKILLS

· Public Speaking

· Interests in fruit growing, local history, agriculture

· Communicating information and guidelines to visitors

· Working with people

· Drivers License

WORK ENVIRONMENT

Volunteers will work directly with the park’s orchard staff, and will likely work with a variety of other divisions within the park in the course of duties as well.

JOB HAZARDS

· Environmental conditions (heat, cold, rain and wind)

· Slips, trips, and fall hazards

BACKGROUND/REFERENCE CHECK REQUIRED

· Yes