Opportunities From: Calvert Stewards

Volunteers must complete the Identification Qualification for Raptor Road Surveys to respond to this opportunity.

You will be emailed the Raptor Road Survey Manual after passing the raptor identification test to qualify you for this opportunity. Please read the manual before conducting surveys.

The Manual includes raptor identification, the specific routes you can cover as well as how to enter your data into eBird.

Volunteers will be expected to:

Once you submit your qualifications they will be reviewed. You will receive an email regarding your qualifications. When fully qualified, you may then respond and assist with the Winter Raptor Research project by conducting surveys of raptors along specific driving routes. These surveys will not only help to aid in catching raptors for banding and further research but they will also be useful in estimating population sizes similar to Christmas Bird Counts. By comparing the data from different years of surveys we will be able to look for trends in the populations.

As a thank you for completing these surveys volunteers who complete 3 surveys will be eligible to participate in a day of banding as part of the Winter Raptor Response Team opportunity.

If you have further questions contact Gene Groshon, Gene.groshon@calvertcountymd.gov (preferred)

410-535-5327

 Identification Qualification for Raptor Road Surveys 

Volunteers are needed to help with our 2026 Kings Landing maple tapping season from late January through mid-March, 2026. Shifts are flexible over a 2-day span and can occur anytime during the park open hours.

Volunteers will walk the trail, check the taps and collect any sap that has accumulated for storage until syrup making begins. Volunteers will also monitor the trail, do light trail work such as moving downed branches, and report any damage to trails, signs or taps to the park staff. This opportunity is open to individuals ages 16 and up and family groups with older children. This volunteer opportunity will require walking over uneven, possibly muddy terrain up to 1+ mile, working on steep inclines, carrying heavy buckets and exposure to potentially cold or wet weather. 

Volunteers ages 16+ will be required attend a mandatory training session to learn how to monitor the maple taps along the Sugar Bush Trail at Kings Landing, and collect and store the sap for syrup making later in the season.  The link to register for the training sessions is here: https://calvertstewards.galaxydigital.com/need/detail/?need_id=1164973

Volunteers may sign up for shifts once they complete the training. Shifts are first come-first served. 

ADULTS and CHILDREN (ages 10 and up, under 18 with adult)

Preregistration is required. Walk-ins will not be accepted.

Location: Battle Creek Nature Center, 2880 Grays Road, Prince Frederick, MD

Animal Care volunteers work with the staff naturalists to care for live animals.

Calvert Steward volunteers feed the turtles, frog, and mice currently housed at the nature center. Other tasks include cleaning cages, administering medical care as needed, and animal enrichment. While this opportunity lists the start time as 10am, volunteers may come in between 9am-2pm to perform animal care.

Some volunteers may assist with education and outreach activities that involve the captive animals.

Animal Care Training: Ages 10 and up with adult  New volunteers should register for the Animal Care Training Opportunity. As they accompany staff, they will learn how to clean cages, feed the animals and handle them. Once trained, volunteers can edit the "Qualifications" section of their profile. After the program manager has verified their training, qualified Calvert Stewards can respond to be the volunteer for the specific shifts  listed. 

For more information please contact Gene Groshon gene.groshon@calvertcountymd.gov  or Kim Curren  kimberly.curren@calvertcountymd.gov

There is often a need for new and replacement Prothonotary Warbler  boxes on our trails. We will provide the instructions and building materials, you provide the construction using your skills and tools, and done on your own schedule. 

Skills Needed: Basic Carpentry Skills

Tools required: table saw, drill, screw drivers

For more information please contact Gene Groshon at Gene.Groshon@calvertcountymd.gov

These groups require training beyond our general training for a CHESPAX program and have a different theme each month.  Programs are at Flag Ponds Nature Park. Times listed are those for the volunteer to arrive and depart. 

QUALIFICATIONS: 

Maintaining Qualifications: you must volunteer with a homeschool day least once in a 2-month time period.  If it has been more than 2 months since you have volunteered, you will need to attend another observation day as a refresher

To become a Qualified Volunteer, please attend contact Kim Curren to schedule an orientation training and an observation day.

Preregistration is required. Walk-ins will not be accepted.

The Calvert Nature Society Board of Directors meets monthly to discuss the operations of the Society, plan initiatives, and track financial obligations.

Come meet the board and other volunteers working to achieve the mission and goals of the Society.

Meetings are open to the public, except for issues requiring Executive Session.

Meeting Locations Vary By Date and will be updated as locations are confirmed.

Zoom option is also available. For more information contact Karyn Molines at Karyn.Molines@calvertcountymd.gov

Volunteers are needed to collect water samples from three locations in the Battle Creek watershed for nitrogen analysis.

We will meet at the Nature Center parking lot at 10 am and walk to two of the three sites. We will drive to the third site off of German Chapel Road.

SKILLS: Ability to scramble along roadsides and streams to access water.

Wear waterproof shoes or boots. 

TRAINING: Will be provided at the site.

PURPOSE: Calvert Stewards will be assisting with the ACLT  water quality blitz. For those who are unfamiliar, the blitz entails sending pairs of volunteers out across the watershed to collect water samples in order to give us a snapshot of groundwater nitrogen levels in feeder streams across the Parkers Creek, Governors Run and Battle Creek watersheds.

The samples are brought back to the ACLT office where Walter and others will process them and before being sent to the Chesapeake Biological Lab for analysis.

We conduct this sampling in early April because it is before all the plants begin to use extra nitrogen to leaf out, and because it is when the leaves from the previous season have had the longest time to decompose and are no longer contributing much nitrogen to the streams. Therefore, a reading during this time and when there has not been rain within a few days prior gives a good reading of the baseline nitrogen in the streams.

iNaturalist Workshop: Exploring your Backyard and Beyond with iNaturalist and the City Nature Challenge

In this workshop, you'll learn how to use iNaturalist to photograph and map your observations in a few easy steps. You'll learn about the various projects that can use your observation, how to verify other observations, and other basic features of the iNaturalist app.

Whether you're a current iNaturalist user or brand new to the technology, join us for this fun learning opportunity.

When you respond, include your iNaturalist handle, if you have one.

You may come anytime between 1 and 4 pm. Karyn will be on hand to walk through using iNaturalist. You can then record observations you find.

To prepare for the training, please bring a fully charged smart phone with the iNaturalist app installed. Don't forget to set up your iNaturalist account.

Download the iNaturalist app (or go online to www.inaturalist.org) and create a free account.

For more information: Karyn Molines, karyn.molines@calvertcountymd.gov

Tutorials: https://www.inaturalist.org/pages/video+tutorials

It's time to make observations for the City Nature Challenge!

If you're not able to attend one of these field explorations, please make observations wherever you are between 4/24 and 4/27, 2026.

• More Field Explorations will be posted as separate opportunities.
• 4/25/2026 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM Flag Ponds Nature Park, Seining! Be prepared to go in the water. Meet at the Observation Pier by the beach. Plan for enough time to walk the ½ mile from the parking area to the Observation Pier. https://calvertstewards.galaxydigital.com/need/detail/?need_id=1214276

Come with a fully charge phone or camera, and bring a refillable water bottle.

Dress for the weather. Bring water, trail snacks.

Those with mobility concerns can make observations around the parking areas and visitor center.

Before the Activity: 

1. Download the iNaturalist app (or go online to www.inaturalist.org) and create a free account.

2. Join the Project on iNaturalist: https://www.inaturalist.org/projects/city-nature-challenge-2026-washington-dc-metro-area

3. During the weekend of April 24-27, 2026, individuals and groups will be on the hunt for animals, plants, mushrooms, and other life forms. These observations will be documented on iNaturalist and counted towards our region's tally. As a participant, it is up to you how much or how little you take part! Do only what feels safe for you & your family and is in accordance with all your local regulations. If you do not use the app to make observations, make sure you upload all photos before May 10 to be counted.

What is the City Nature Challenge?

The City Nature Challenge is not just about cities! All observations made in Calvert County will count for the Washington, DC Metro Area City Nature Challenge.

Please join the project and spread the word to your friends and neighbors.

The City Nature Challenge has two parts: 1) Making observations and 2) Identifying observations. This Field Exploration is included in the first part.

https://www.inaturalist.org/projects/city-nature-challenge-2025-washington-dc-metro-area

You can also help with the second task to identify observations. Respond to the Identification opportunity. The collective global results will be announced on May 13. 

Here's an introductory video from 2021. https://youtu.be/8nU4_mmQsiM

In Calvert County: https://www.calvertparks.org/CNC/ 

DC City Nature Challenge: https://citynaturechallengedc.org/

Worldwide: http://citynaturechallenge.org/participate/

For Further Information Contact: Karyn Molines, Karyn.Molines@calvertcountymd.gov

It's time to make observations for the City Nature Challenge!

We'll focus on the beach and bay environment.

Come with a fully charge phone or camera, and bring a refillable water bottle.

Dress for the weather and to get wet! If we have enough people, we will seine for fish, crabs and other aquatic animals.

This specific program will focus on animals we can catch in the Chesapeake Bay in a seine net. From the beach bathrooms, follow signs toward the observation pier, where Kim will be waiting for you. Plan for enough time to walk the ½ mile from the parking area to the Observation Pier.

You can also make observations on the trails and Those with mobility concerns can make observations around the visitor center.

Before the Activity:

1. Download the iNaturalist app (or go online to www.inaturalist.org) and create a free account.

2. Join the Project on iNaturalist https://www.inaturalist.org/projects/city-nature-challenge-2026-washington-dc-metro-area

3. During the weekend of April 24-27, 2026, individuals and groups will be on the hunt for animals, plants, mushrooms, and other life forms. These observations will be documented on iNaturalist and counted towards our region's tally. As a participant, it is up to you how much or how little you take part! Do only what feels safe for you and your family and is in accordance with all your local regulations. If you do not use the app to make observations, make sure you upload all photos before May 4 to be counted.

What is the City Nature Challenge?

The City Nature Challenge is not just about cities! All observations made in Calvert County will count for the Washington, DC Metro Area City Nature Challenge.

Please join the project and spread the word to your friends and neighbors.

The City Nature Challenge has two parts: 1) Making observations and 2) Identifying observations. This Field Exploration is included in the first part.

You can also help with the second task to identify observations. Respond to the Identification opportunity. The collective global results will be announced on May 7. 

Here's an introductory video from 2021. https://youtu.be/8nU4_mmQsiM

In Calvert County: https://www.calvertparks.org/CNC/ 

DC City Nature Challenge: https://citynaturechallengedc.org/

Worldwide: http://citynaturechallenge.org/participate/

Calvert County Parks & Recreation Natural Resources Division and Calvert Nature Society are partnering with the Izaak Walton League to monitor and reduce the impact of road salt on our streams and rivers. Road salt, while essential for winter road safety, can have detrimental effects on water quality, aquatic life, and the environment. Calvert Stewards will play a crucial role in collecting data that helps us understand these impacts.

You will document and report chloride levels in local streams. Your efforts will contribute to a national database that informs community leaders and policymakers about the environmental consequences of road salt.

As a Salt Watch Volunteer, you will contribute to important research efforts aimed at documenting water quality in our local stream. You will gain hands-on experience in water quality monitoring and data collection, engage with a network of like-minded individuals, and raise awareness in your community about the environmental impact of road salt.

Volunteers must first attend a training or field session to learn the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively monitor and report chloride levels.
Register for the training sessions: https://calvertstewards.galaxydigital.com/need/detail/?need_id=961266 

We recommend volunteers wear long sleeves and pants, bright clothing, and shoes or boots that are fine with getting wet and dirty.

Approximately one hour/month.

Volunteers can monitor on their own schedule, with a minimum of once monthly during the first week at their assigned streams.

In Winter (November-March), in addition to the first week sampling, if possible, monitor before a winter storm, to find out the "normal" level of salt in your stream; then after salt has been applied to roads, then after the first warm day or rainstorm following a snow or freeze, and then after the next rain event.

Volunteers work with staff and trained volunteers measure the density of milkweed at the Gatewood Preserve meadow.

This data collection is the first step in Monarch Monitoring in order to estimate the amount of milkweed available in our meadow.

Meet in the parking lot of Gatewood Preserve on April 26, 2026, at 2:00 p.m.

Please dress for the weather, wear SPF, bug spray, and bring water.

Inclement weather we will reschedule.

For questions contact Jessy Oberright, jessy.oberright@calvertcountymd.gov

Ages 10 and up, Under 18 with Adult.

Help the naturalist count monarch caterpillars in the meadow as part of the citizen science Monarch Larva Monitoring Project. 

Qualifications Required: Please watch the Monarch Training Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xfZxmGwYPLI. 

Recommendations: Bring water and wear a hat & closed-toed shoes.  For the safety of the caterpillars, please do not apply insect repellent to your hands and arms.

Location: Gatewood Preserve, meet in the gravel lot.

Volunteer in charge:  Jessy Oberright, jessy.oberright@calvertcountymd.gov

More Information about the Project: https://monarchjointventure.org/mlmp

testing

Adults and children ages 13 and up.  (under 18 with adult) We are always looking for an extra hand to take care of our captive live animals. As you assist staff in routine responsibilities, you will learn how to clean cages, feed the animals and handle some of them. Once volunteers have demonstrated their skills and abilities they can be scheduled to complete these tasks independently.

PLEASE EMAIL Gene Groshon or Kimberly Curren TO SCHEDULE A TRAINING.

Email: Gene.Groshon@calvertcountymd.gov or Kimberly.Curren@calvertcountymd.gov

Naturalist in charge: Kimberly Curren

Location: Battle Creek Cypress Swamp Nature Center

Volunteer assists park staff in maintaining trails at Flag Ponds Nature Park in Lusby.

 Duties include:

Schedule: Once a month, or more frequently as desired by volunteer. Actual dates and times determined by staff and volunteers. Volunteers will work independently, occasionally as a group.

Time Commitment: 1-3 hours per month.

Materials and Equipment: Hand tools and gloves (volunteers may bring their personal tools and gloves), band aids, and safety vests (blaze orange or yellow) are provided. Volunteers should bring water bottles and any necessary trail snacks.

Special Skills: Most work will be performed outside under varying weather conditions. Frequent exposure to weather and temperature extremes, noise, dust, and dirt should be expected. Work performed requires the exertion of moderate to heavy physical effort and may involve lifting and moving objects over 50 pounds.

Work also includes: exposure to poison ivy, ticks, mosquitoes, snakes, spiders and other wildlife.

For more information contact Brian Bussard at Brian.Bussard@CalvertCountyMD.gov

Resources for Trail Monitors

Location: Varies and could be throughout Calvert County

Time: Varies depending on program/event. Can be on weekdays and weekends

We are looking for folks interested in taking photos during our public nature programs, field trips and community events.  Volunteers are welcome to use any digital camera including smart phones.  Volunteers will be trained on how to upload files to a shared drive and how to label the photos for easy organization. 

Qualifications: Volunteers will be required to undergo a background screening

For more information contact: email CypressSwamp@CalvertCountymd.gov or call 410-535-5327

Program Volunteers work closely with staff naturalists in planning and promoting programs and events. They assist with coordinating speakers or facilitators and assist with acquiring supplies for programs. They work closely with other committees to promote events, engage participants, and evaluate the success of each program. Their goal is to deliver high-quality, impactful programs that meet the needs and interests of the members.

The Society offers a broad array of programs including public nature programs for families and adults, summer camps, and community outreach events like PRAD, Youth Day at the Fair, Insect-ival. Other programs include outreach to community groups, senior centers, and schools.
Other education initiatives include engaging with our Calvert Steward volunteers, developing engaging outreach displays, creating social media posts about our education initiatives, writing press releases, brochures, or signage to promote our programs, and updating website content to remain relevant and informative.

Tasks include:
• Assist professional and volunteer naturalists in planning and leading programs.
• Manage marketing and outreach to the community.
• Monitor and approve program expenditures, equipment and supplies needed by the staff and program.
• Assist in purchasing equipment and supplies needed by the staff and program.
• Solicit feedback from participants for evaluating the success and impact of programs
• Prepare attendance and financial statements and maintain records pertaining to program activities.
• Prepare or assist in the preparation of grant requests and funding continuation from outside sponsors.

Skills Needed:

Training:

You'll receive training by staff and other volunteers to succeed in your role.

Schedule: Volunteers will generally make their own schedule, and spend 4-10 hours per month. Attendance at monthly board meetings is encouraged.

Qualifications: None

For Further Information Contact: Karyn Molines, 410-535-5327,  Karyn.Molines@calvertcountymd.gov

Board Leadership Volunteers hold key positions on the board of directors, such as the Board President, Vice-President, Treasurer, and Secretary. These roles are crucial for guiding the organization’s strategic direction and ensuring effective governance.

This opportunity can be used for general board activities that don't fit neatly in any of the other categories.

Tasks include:

Skills Needed:

Training: You'll receive training by staff and other volunteers to succeed in your role.

Schedule: Attendance at monthly board meetings is required. Additional hours outside of board meetings will be required to accomplish tasks, Volunteers will make their own schedule, and spend 4-10 hours per month on board leadership functions.

Qualifications: None

For Further Information Contact: Karyn Molines, 410-535-5327,  Karyn.Molines@calvertcountymd.gov

Complete this form if you are interested in volunteering as a Board Member

Volunteer Management assist the staff Volunteer Coordinator with recruiting, coordinating, and managing volunteers. They assist with volunteer recognition and retention efforts, working closely with other committees to fulfill the organization's needs. Their goal is to create a positive and effective volunteer experience that contributes to the organization's mission and objectives.

Tasks include:

Skills Needed:

Training:

You'll receive training by staff and other volunteers to succeed in your role.

Schedule: Volunteers will generally make their own schedule, and spend 4-10 hours per month. Attendance at monthly board meetings is encouraged.

Qualifications: None

For Further Information Contact: Karyn Molines, 410-535-5327,  Karyn.Molines@calvertcountymd.gov

This Opportunity is for volunteers wishing to become qualified for the Surveys. 

In order to volunteer with the surveys for dragonflies and damselflies, you first must complete the volunteer requirements below. Once qualified, volunteers are expected to log 15 hours each year. Qualifications will be reviewed each January.

If you are not interested in completing surveys, you can register for our overall Calvert County Biodiversity opportunity. and track your hours documenting flora and fauna through that opportunity.

To Become Qualified to conduct the Dragonfly & Damselfly Surveys the following is required:

This is a self directed opportunity. 

On-site Trainings will be provided on occasion.

QUALIFICATION SURVEY FORMS: Odonata Volunteer Survey Form

 Our focus is on the county nature parks, but any Calvert County record is valuable.

For Further Information Contact: Karyn Molines, 410-535-5327 Karyn.Molines@calvertcountymd.gov  or Jason Avery jasoneavery23@gmail.com

QUALIFICATIONS: Complete two surveys and submit data forms to Jason Avery. Along with doing surveys, a minimum of 15 hours per year must be recorded through this opportunity. Qualifications will be reviewed each January. 

If you are not qualified for this opportunity, you can register for the Qualifications opportunity or contribute via our overall Calvert County Biodiversity opportunity.

WHAT TO DO

SURVEY FORMS: Download the form:  Odonata Volunteer Survey Form:  https://calvertstewards.galaxydigital.com/files/dl/5e3f6a7aa00c275bd2a56820a238526f/

This is a self directed opportunity. 

Our focus is on the county nature parks, but any Calvert County record is valuable.

For Further Information Contact: Karyn Molines, 410-535-5327 Karyn.Molines@calvertcountymd.gov  or Jason Avery jasoneavery23@gmail.com

Volunteer assists park staff in maintaining trails at Hughes Tree Farm in Prince Frederick.

 Duties include:

Schedule: Once a month, or more frequently as desired by volunteer. Actual dates and times determined by staff and volunteers. Volunteers will work independently, occasionally as a group.

Time Commitment: 1-3 hours per month.

Training: Volunteers should arrange a time with Ian or Karyn.

Materials and Equipment: Hand tools and gloves (volunteers may bring their personal tools and gloves), band aids, and safety vests (blaze orange or yellow) are provided. Volunteers should bring water bottles and any necessary trail snacks.

Special Skills: Most work will be performed outside under varying weather conditions. Frequent exposure to weather and temperature extremes, noise, dust, and dirt should be expected. Work performed requires the exertion of moderate to heavy physical effort and may involve lifting and moving objects over 50 pounds.

Work also includes: exposure to poison ivy, ticks, mosquitoes, snakes, spiders and other wildlife.

For any additional information, please contact Ian Keeley at Ian.Keeley@CalvertCountyMD.gov or Karyn Molines at Karyn.Molines@calvertcountymd.gov.

Resources for Trail Monitors

Calvert County is located in Southern Maryland. A peninsula bordered on the west by the Patuxent River and on the east by the Chesapeake Bay, much of the county is rural with major agricultural crops being corn, soybeans and tobacco. Large, open fields bordered by woodlands are conducive to the presence of Eastern Bluebirds (Sialia sialis) who are year-round residents.

The Calvert Bluebird Council, headquartered at the Nature Center at Battle Creek Cypress Swamp oversees the monitoring of 24 official trails with 420 boxes throughout the county. At season's end the results are compiled. See the data on www.calvertparks.org/bluebird_project

For more information please contact Lydia Wells at lydia.wells@calvertcountymd.gov or Mary Hollinger, canoe2@comcast.net   

Volunteers who are interested can explore County-owned property to find and identify orchids.

Skills and Abilities: Ability to use iNaturalist

Training: This is an on-going, self directed opportunity. 

Qualifications Needed: None

For Further Information Contact: Karyn Molines, 410-535-5327,  Karyn.Molines@calvertcountymd.gov

For Volunteers trained for the Orchid Conservation Research Project:

Land Management Volunteers oversee the stewardship and sustainable use of land which the Society owns or hold conservation easements. This person reviews land management plans, ensures compliance with environmental regulations, and coordinates conservation efforts. They collaborate with other committees, stakeholders, and experts to monitor land conditions, manage habitats, and promote biodiversity. Their goal is to maintain and enhance the ecological health and sustainability of the land under the organization's care.

The Calvert Steward Land Management program has something for almost everyone: kids and young adults, retirees, professionals, corporate teams, students, community service organizations, and individuals and groups in search of meaningful outdoor and stewardship projects.

If you like people and care about our county's natural resources, the Calvert Nature Society needs your time and talents.

Projects include:

For Further Information Contact: Karyn Molines, 410-535-5327  Karyn.Molines@calvertcountymd.gov

Marketing Volunteers are responsible for developing and executing marketing strategies to promote the organization’s mission, programs, and events. They create marketing materials, manages social media and online presence, and coordinate public relations efforts. They work closely with other committees to ensure consistent and effective messaging and engage with target audiences. Their goal is to increase visibility, attract and retain members or supporters, and enhance the organization's overall brand and reach.Fundraising volunteers assist the Calvert Nature Society Board of Directors in many ways.

Tasks include:

Skills:

Training will be provided by staff and other volunteers

Schedule: Volunteers will generally make their own schedule, and spend 4-10 hours per month. Attendance at monthly board meetings is encouraged.

Qualifications: None

For Further Information Contact: Karyn Molines, 410-535-5327 Ext. 16,  Karyn.Molines@calvertcountymd.gov

Membership volunteers maintain, recruit and communicate with members of the Calvert Nature Society. They manage the online membership databases, recruit for new members, and develop strategies to enhance member satisfaction and involvement. They collaborate with other committees to organize events, communicate benefits, and address any member-related issues. Their goal is to ensure a vibrant, active membership base that supports the organization’s mission and goals.

Tasks include:

Skills Needed:

Training:

As a Membership volunteer you'll receive training by staff and other volunteers to succeed in your role.

Schedule: Volunteers will generally make their own schedule, and spend 4-10 hours per month. Attendance at monthly board meetings is encouraged.

Qualifications: None
For Further Information Contact: Karyn Molines, 410-535-5327,  Karyn.Molines@calvertcountymd.gov

Maintenance as needed on existing bluebird trails, or installing new trails. Includes replacing or adding boxes, predator guards and/or posts. This will often be done by the trail monitors, but larger efforts may involve teams.

For more information please contact Gene Groshon at gene.groshon@calvertcountymd.gov or Mary Hollinger, canoe2@comcast.net   

The Calvert Nature Society Board of Directors are elected yearly by the Society membership. 

This Opportunity is for current Directors to track their hours.

For Further Information Contact: Karyn Molines, 410-535-5327 Ext. 16,  Karyn.Molines@calvertcountymd.gov

Calvert Steward volunteers work as a team to arrange for transportation of injured wildlife to licensed wildlife rehabilitators.

The Battle Creek Nature Center receives many calls from members of the public who want to help rescue wildlife, but are unable to transport the animal. Volunteer transporters provide a vital, life-saving action to both the Center and the community by facilitating the rescue/transport of wild animals. 

If a citizen calls and needs transporting assistance, the Program Managers will determine the best course of action for the animal in need. 

If rescue/transport is needed, several volunteer transporters will be notified to assist with transportation.  Transporters are always free to tell a caller that they are unavailable, knowing that the caller has been given other transporter numbers.

Requirements: Transporters must have a valid driver’s license and be willing to drive contained, injured or orphaned wild animals to/from the Center in their own vehicle. 

Availability: Transporters are on-call from approximately 7 am-7 pm, including weekends.

For more information please contact Gene Groshon at Gene.Groshon@calvertcountymd.gov or Mary Hollinger at canoe2@comcast.net

Scheduling & Reporting Hours: Depending on the specific project surveys may be done at any site the volunteer chooses (BBA, GBBC) or in specific assign regions (CBC).  Volunteers may report their hours through this opportunity and mention the project and location in the notes.   

Examples of Bird Surveys include:

Contact Gene Groshon at gene.groshon@calvertcountymd.gov for additional information or to participate. 

Calvert Stewards assist the Naturalists in capturing, banding and releasing hawks and falcons.

The project occurs December through March and is weather dependent.

** In order to participate on a banding day volunteers must complete the Identification Qualification for Raptor Road Survey opportunity and conduct 3 Raptor Road Surveys **

Gene will email volunteers with enough surveys completed about upcoming dates. 

Volunteers will travel in a county van to locations throughout Calvert County to band and measure raptors.

For more information:
Gene Groshon
410-535-5327
Gene.groshon@calvertcountymd.gov

There is a steady need for new and replacement bluebird boxes on our trails. We will provide the instructions and building materials, you provide the construction using your skills and tools, and done on your own schedule.  Tools required: table saw, drill, screw drivers

For more information please contact Gene Groshon at Gene.Groshon@calvertcountymd.gov 

To keep predators at bay, especially snakes, racoons, etc, we use metal cones attached to the posts. These cones are cut from metal sheets and riveted into cone shapes. with a 4" center to slide over the posts. We provide the instructions and materials. The volunteer creates the cones using their own skills and tools, and on their own schedule.

For more information please contact Gene Groshon at gene.groshon@calvertcountymd.gov

Help us document the distribution and abundance of plants, animals, fungi and other species found throughout Calvert County 

Use iNaturalist to photograph and map your observations in a few easy steps.

You can also help verify other people's observations to improve our data quality, come to a scheduled iNaturalist survey, or even hold your own event. You can also explore on your own.

Spread the word—it's a big area! 

 For Further Information Contact: Karyn Molines, 410-535-5327 Karyn.Molines@calvertcountymd.gov

ANIMAL CARE TRAINING FOR NEW VOLUNTEERS HAS BEEN TEMPORARILY SUSPENDED WHILE WE RELOCATE OUR ANIMAL COLLECTION FROM FLAG PONDS NATURE PARK TO THE BATTLE CREEK CYPRESS SWAMP NATURE CENTER. IF YOU ARE INTERESTED IN BEING TRAINED FOR ANIMAL CARE IN THE FUTURE, PLEASE EMAIL KIM CURREN (Kimberly.Curren@calvertcountymd.gov) AND SHE WILL NOTIFY YOU WHEN WE ARE READY TO BEGIN TRAININGS AGAIN.

Adults and children ages 13 and up.  (under 18 with adult)We are always looking for an extra hand to take care of our captive live animals. As you assist staff in routine responsibilities, you will learn how to clean cages, feed the animals and handle some of them. Once volunteers have demonstrated their skills and abilities they can be scheduled to complete these tasks independently.

PLEASE CONTACT Kimberly Curren  at Kimberly.Curren@calvertcountymd.gov TO SCHEDULE A TRAINING.

Email: Kimberly.Curren@calvertcountymd.gov

Naturalist in charge: Kimberly Curren

Location: **Battle Creek Cypress Swamp Nature Center (when training resumes)

Must be a current garden volunteer for this opportunity.  NEW volunteers please sign up for a scheduled shift with staff.

Help staff with the maintenance and upkeep of the trails and gardens around Battle Creek Nature Center. From invasive plant removal, to routine garden care, to maintaining the nature play space and trails - there is always something to be done.

If you have questions or are interested in helping with gardening but can not make this date, please contact Tania Gale to find another time to come in.  Tania.gale@calvertcountymd.gov

Minimum age is 12 - all volunteers under 18 need to be with an adult volunteer

Bring garden gloves and clippers if you have them.

This opportunity is suitable for an organized group (ex: scout, church, school group, etc.) looking to perform a service project in the park. The project is removing old boardwalk along the Cocktown Creek trail and replacing it with a slightly elevated walkway. A total of approximately 110 feet of boardwalk needs to be constructed. This project can be divided into smaller projects as needed.

Duties include:

Schedule: Interested group should contact Park Manager for a site visit and to schedule desired workday.

Materials and Equipment: Group will be responsible for acquiring building materials and tools. Volunteers should bring work gloves, water bottles, long pants, closed toe shoes, and lunch/snacks as needed.
Note: Park may provide some of the needed lumber.

Special Skills: Most work will be performed outside under varying weather conditions. Frequent exposure to weather and temperature extremes, noise, dust, and dirt should be expected. Work performed requires the exertion of moderate to heavy physical effort and may involve lifting and moving objects up to 50 pounds.

Work also includes: Exposure to poison ivy, ticks, mosquitos, snakes, spiders and other wildlife.

For any additional information, please contact Jenny Yoder at jennifer.yoder@calvertcountymd.gov

Description:  This opportunity is suitable for an organized group (ex: scout, church, school group, etc.) looking to perform a service project in the park. The project is removing old boardwalk along the Fisherman's trail and replacing it with ADA accessible boardwalk. A total of approximately 420 feet of boardwalk needs to be constructed. This project can be divided into smaller projects as needed. 

Duties include:

Schedule: Interested group should contact Park Manager for a site visit and to schedule desired work day

Materials and Equipment: Group will be responsible for acquiring building materials and tools. Volunteers should bring work gloves, water bottles, long pants, closed toe shoes, and lunch/snacks as needed.

Special Skills: Most work will be performed outside under varying weather conditions. Frequent exposure to weather and temperature extremes, noise, dust, and dirt should be expected. Work performed requires the exertion of moderate to heavy physical effort and may involve lifting and moving objects up to 50 pounds.

Work also includes: exposure to poison ivy, ticks, mosquitos, snakes, spiders and other wildlife.

For any additional information, please contact Brian Bussard at Brian.Bussard@CalvertCountyMD.gov

Description:  This opportunity is suitable for an organized group (ex: scout, church, school group, etc.) looking to perform a service project in the park. The project is building a new boardwalk to create a dry path for visitors on Duncan's Pond Trail. Boardwalk needs to be approximately 60 feet long and 6 feet wide. This project can be divided into smaller projects as needed. 

Duties include:

Schedule: Interested group should contact Park Manager for a site visit and to schedule desired work day

Materials and Equipment: Group will be responsible for acquiring building materials and tools. Volunteers should bring work gloves, water bottles, long pants, closed toe shoes, and lunch/snacks as needed.

Special Skills: Most work will be performed outside under varying weather conditions. Frequent exposure to weather and temperature extremes, noise, dust, and dirt should be expected. Work performed requires the exertion of moderate to heavy physical effort and may involve lifting and moving objects up to 50 pounds.

Work also includes: exposure to poison ivy, ticks, mosquitos, snakes, spiders and other wildlife.

For any additional information, please contact Brian Bussard at Brian.Bussard@CalvertCountyMD.gov

Please respond to this opportunity to take the Raptor Identification Test in order to qualify to participate in the Raptor Road Surveys.

Download the test and email your answers to Gene Groshon gene.groshon@calvertcountymd.gov 

Once you have emailed the test to Gene he will go over any wrong answers with you and let you know if you qualify to conduct Raptor Road Surveys.  You will recieve the qualification on your Calvert Stewards profile which will allow you to respond to the Raptor Road Surveys opportunity.

Raptor Road Surveys

To assist with the Winter Raptor Research project you will be conducting surveys of raptors along specific driving routes. These surveys will not only help to aid in catching raptors for banding and further research but they will also be useful in estimating population sizes similar to Christmas Bird Counts.

You will be given a guide that includes raptor identification, the specific routes you can cover as well as how to enter your data into eBird. Volunteers will need to set up their own eBird account and provide your own transportation and optics. These surveys will be conducted October through March.

If you have issues downloading the test or have any other questions let me know!

Gene Groshon

Preferred: Gene.groshon@calvertcountymd.gov

410-535-5327

The Barn Owl nest boxes need routine maintenance outside of the nesting season. Activities can include trimming vegetation around the nesting area, repairing boxes, or moving or adding boxes.

If you performed maintenance as part of a routine nest box monitoring visit, please respond to the Barn Owl Nest Box Monitoring 

For Further Information Contact: Andy Brown, 3.andrew.brown@gmail.com or

Karen Anderson r_otters1@msn.com

Help us document the distribution and abundance of horseshoe crabs during their annual mating season along the shores of the Chesapeake Bay in Calvert County and beyond! 

Use iNaturalist to photograph and map your observations in a few easy steps.

You can also help verify other people's observations to improve our data quality, come to a scheduled horseshoe crab survey, or even hold your own event. You can also explore on your own.

Spread the word—it's a big area! The area includes the entire Chesapeake Bay Shoreline in Maryland, Virginia and Delaware. We are really interested in Calvert County sightings, but any observations along the Chesapeake are important.

 For Further Information Contact: Karyn Molines, 410-535-5327 ; Karyn.Molines@calvertcountymd.gov

This opportunity is for trained Frog Watch USA volunteers to log their observation hours.

Frog Watch USA is a citizen science program that tracks frog populations throughout the United States. Calvert Nature Society, Calvert County Natural Resources and Calvert Marine Museum have partnered to create the Southern Maryland (and surrounding DMV) Chapter of Frog Watch.

Participants choose a monitoring site, time, and days to listen for frogs that are calling throughout the warmer months. This project asks volunteers to follow specific protocols for participation, and training is required in order to volunteer for Frog Watch opportunities. 

Trainings are held at the beginning of each "frog call season" (Typically Feb-March). Be sure to become a "fan" of the amphibian monitoring program to stay up-to-date on future amphibian opportunities and trainings. 

SCHEDULE: at the monitor's discretion, and is an ongoing yearly project. Time per visit expected to be 3 hours. 

VOLUNTEER DUTIES
Volunteers will meet at designated locations and complete duties. Tasks include:

SKILLS & ABILITIES: Some walking involved.

TRAINING: New volunteers will meet with the Program Manager or attend a scheduled training.

REQUIREMENTS & EXPECTATIONS
Volunteers may need to:

PROJECT DATES Specific dates for each season will be selected by the program leaders based on weather patterns and regional activities of wood ducks. Updates will be emailed to volunteers who have responded to this opportunity.

For Further Information Contact: Karyn Molines, 410-535-5327 Karyn.Molines@calvertcountymd.gov