Volunteer at Southeast Oregon

VOLUNTEERS PLAY A VITAL ROLE

Volunteer Opportunities

Malheur National Wildlife Refuge staff support volunteers in their assignments. The Volunteer Program covers several areas with different tasks.

Visitor Center Volunteers: The Visitor Center is usually a visitor’s first stop at Malheur. Volunteers greet guests and ensure they safely enjoy the Refuge’s features, leaving with lasting memories and an appreciation for its unique resources and the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service Refuge System.

Maintenance Volunteers: The Refuge welcomes volunteers with all skill levels. Maintenance roles include lawn care, general repairs, cleaning facilities and equipment, monitoring garbage and restrooms, maintaining signs, installing or removing temporary art exhibitions, and moving furniture for events.

Education Program Volunteers: Volunteers are essential for the Refuge's educational activities, including leading youth programs during annual school field trips in May and June. Many serve as Visitor Center and Nature Store volunteers, teaching various topics. Volunteers also contribute through tabletop naturalist talks year-round and by supporting the Artist-in-Residence program in March and April.

Historic Sod House Ranch Volunteers: The 1880s historic site welcomes the public each year from August 15th to October 1st. When a docent is present, visitors gain a deeper understanding of the places and resources protected by the Refuge, enhancing their appreciation of both historic and natural resources, as well as the importance of conservation and stewardship.

A Little Bit About Malheur National Wildlife Refuge: "An Oasis in Oregon’s High Desert"

Malheur National Wildlife Refuge is regarded as a significant component of the National Wildlife Refuge System. The Refuge encompasses more than 187,000 acres of high desert habitat. It serves as a critical location along the Pacific Flyway, providing resting, breeding, and nesting grounds for hundreds of thousands of migratory birds and other wildlife. Recognized for its extensive biodiversity and substantial concentrations of wildlife, Malheur attracts birdwatchers and wildlife enthusiasts, many of whom visit annually.

For more information about Malheur NWR, please visit the following:

• Official Website: https://www.fws.gov/refuge/malheur/
• Friends of Malheur Website: https://malheurfriends.org/

Why Volunteer at Malheur National Wildlife Refuge?

• The RV pad offers full hookups, WiFi, access to laundry and shower facilities, a community room with additional seating, and a compact kitchen that is fully equipped.
• A one-month commitment is required, but more is welcome.
• Work 8 hours a day for three or four days in a row each week
• See over 340 bird species and 67 mammals, including rare birds.
• The area offers a tranquil rural environment, expansive open spaces, picturesque scenery, and unobstructed night skies, among other appealing features.
• Motivating team members.