2027 Historic Gardener - Spring-Summer (On-site RV Residents)

** Two volunteers per RV site are preferred to meet workload needs. If you are applying as a couple/team, please indicate the name of your partner in the “any other additional

qualifications?” section of this application**

Overview: Bonneville Lock and Dam is a National Historic Landmark operated by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. Our site includes two powerhouses, a navigation lock, fish passage, and three visitor centers; two accessible from Oregon via I-84, and one accessible from Washington via SR 14. In conjunction with park rangers, volunteers will manage land across the entirety of the project.

Location: Bonneville Dam is located in the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area, and is approximately 40 miles east of Portland, Oregon.

Work Schedule: Volunteers will be expected to work 24 hours per week per person at their discretion within the hours of 7:00AM – 5:30PM. Additional hours may be requested for special events.

Arrival window: March 31, 2027 through April 7, 2027.

Departure window: July 8, 2027 through July 15, 2027

Lodging: RV sites with standard hookups (electric, water, sewer) are available. Additionally, internet (via Starlink), laundry facilities, and a gym are included. These amenities are provided for volunteers who meet the weekly work hours requirement (24 hours per week).

Position Description: Rangers will work with volunteers to develop a grounds maintenance schedule that meets the needs of the site while considering duty hour preferences, weather, and public visitation. Work duties include, but are not limited to the following:

·      Managing vegetation and ornamental beds throughout the Bonneville Historic District, recreation areas, and wildlife management areas.

·      Trimming and manicuring a variety of plants such as roses, azaleas, and rhododendrons.

·      Improving and managing pollinator and wildlife habitat.

·      Maintaining lawns in recreation areas, near historic buildings, and along roadways.

·      Greeting visitors and answering questions about the site and surrounding area.

·      Educating visitors about park rules.

·      Assisting rangers with positive image and safety through housekeeping, litter pick-up, and similar tasks.

Volunteers will be working mostly outdoors and independently from ranger staff. Rangers are always available to respond to emergencies but will be otherwise occupied. Rangers depend on volunteers utilizing protocols taught in training to properly manage the grounds.

Training will be provided on plant identification, tool use, interpretation, customer service, communication, and more. An orientation to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers & Bonneville Lock and Dam will be provided. Prior experience in any of these areas is a plus.

Volunteers should be able to stand or walk for moderate periods of time. Some work will require kneeling. Volunteers should be willing to work outdoors in warm weather. Lifting and using power equipment, hand tools, and gardening equipment as heavy as 30 lbs. may be required.

Additional Information:

·      Preference for RV sites will be given to two-person volunteer teams due to workload demands.

·      An FBI fingerprint criminal history check will be administered upon arrival if volunteers do not already have a recent clear check in the federal database.

·      Mileage reimbursement for your travel to the site may be available and is dependent upon several factors. If offered, reimbursement will occur only after successful completion of the season.