Volunteer

We are always looking for new faces to help us keep Pottawattamie Conservation parks beautiful and educate the public. Whether you prefer outdoors or indoors, our volunteer opportunities provide impactful ways for you to make a difference, connect with nature and support our community.

Regular volunteers have the option of setting their own schedule and are rewarded with an annual permit, educational opportunities, and fun perks. Volunteers also receive a discount on gift shop merchandise as a thank you for their efforts.

Apply to Volunteer Today

To join our team at Pottawattamie Conservation, please complete our volunteer application and submit it for processing.

All potential volunteers must complete a background check prior to volunteering with Pottawattamie County, unless participating in a public volunteer event. Please send completed applications to Dana Kruse, Volunteer and Facilities Coordinator, as dana.kruse@pottcounty-ia.gov or drop yours off in person at Hitchcock Nature Center's Loess Hills Lodge during gallery hours.

Download Fillable Volunteer Application

Download Printable Volunteer Application

Privately Scheduled Volunteer Projects: 

Civic groups, businesses, other organizations, and students looking to fulfill community service requirements or objectives may contact our Community Relations Coordinator for more information on scheduling a private volunteer project.

Private projects are available based on park needs and staff availability; as such, they may not be available at all times.  We request that you contact us at least three weeks prior to your desired date of service. Advance notice increases our chances of finding an appropriate volunteer project.

Not able to commit to being a regular volunteer but still want to make a difference?

Join us for one of our public volunteer events! These are volunteer opportunities that are open to the public & do not require the completion of a volunteer application. Most events are family-friendly and provide a variety of volunteer activities, from seed collecting to trash cleanup & everything in between. Volunteer events are held periodically throughout the season with an average of two to four events per year. These events are open to all interested participants and there is no additional commitment beyond the duration of the event.

For more information on volunteer opportunities or to schedule a private volunteer project, please contact Dana Kruse at (712) 545-3283 or email him at dana.kruse@pottcounty-ia.gov.

Park-Related Volunteer Opportunities Include:

• Greeting and assisting visitors, answering phones, registering campers, renting equipment, selling campfire wood
• Assisting the park ranger with park maintenance including cleaning, tree cutting, etc.
• Assisting the Natural Areas Management team with invasive species removal, prescribed burns, etc. - Certifications or training may be required.
• Assisting Environmental Education staff with school and public programming -Training provided.
• Assisting with raptor migration research as part of our HawkWatch team - Training provided
• Assisting with various events for the public
• Serving as a Campground Host