Opportunities From: Calvert Stewards

Help us document the distribution and abundance of pollinators and pollinator friendly plants throughout September.  You will use iNaturalist to photograph and map your observations in a few easy steps.

How you can participate:

This is a self-directed Opportunity--for the most part, you will explore on your own. You can also help verify other people's observations to improve our data quality, come to a scheduled survey, or even hold your own event. 

Several guided activities will be scheduled. 

Spread the word!

Our goals for the Parks for Pollinators BioBlitz are to engage our Calvert community in pollinator awareness and education while also collecting national pollinator data. 

Any observations of pollinators* and flowering plants you make in Calvert County throughout September will automatically be added to our iNaturalist project:  iNaturalist projects: Parks for Pollinators: 2025 Calvert County

For the Parks for Pollinator BioBlitz, we are focusing on:

These will be the taxa that feed up into the national Parks for Pollinators BioBlitz campaign.

‘Bio’ means ‘life’ and ‘Blitz’ means ‘to do something quickly and intensively’. Together they make ‘BioBlitz’ — a collaborative effort to discover as many species as possible within a set location during a defined time period.
A BioBlitz usually comprises a group of scientists, naturalists, parks staff and other members of the public working together. As an informal and fun way to create a snapshot of the variety of life found in an area, these events provide an opportunity for participants to learn together and share their expertise and enthusiasm for nature. BioBlitzes make engaging with science easy and fun while raising awareness about the role of biological recording. It also gives the public an opportunity to contribute to a genuine scientific survey. A BioBlitz can be carried out anywhere there is wildlife, including urban and rural areas, or inland and coastal locations.

The Parks for Pollinators BioBlitz is a national effort for people to find and document pollinator friendly plants and pollinators across the country in partnership with their local park and recreation agency. It’s a national campaign to see who can make the most observations, engage the most people and promote pollinator awareness and education. The results not only make an impact for awareness of pollinators nationally and for those that participate, but also helps agencies know what pollinator species are in their parks and helps them plan for how to protect them. 

The Parks for Pollinators BioBlitz is organized by the National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA) with support from The Scotts Miracle-Gro Foundation.

Teach Calvert County's 5th graders about how Oysters impact the health of the Chesapeake Bay.  All Oysters programs are held at the Fishing Creek Boardwalk in Chesapeake Beach, MD.  Volunteer shift is generally 9:30am - 1:15pm.  We ask that volunteers commit to working at least one shift every other week.

QUALIFICATIONS: 

Commitment and Maintaining Qualifications: 

To become a Qualified Volunteer, please contact Tania Gale (tania.gale@calvertcountymd.gov) to schedule an orientation and two observation days.

Preregistration is required - please sign up a minimum of 48 hours in advance. Walk-ins will not be accepted.

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

QUALIFICATIONS: 

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

Location: Flag Ponds Nature Park

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

Calvert Steward volunteers feed the turtles, frog, and mice currently housed in the education building at Flag Ponds Nature Park. Other tasks include cleaning cages, administering medical care as needed, and animal enrichment..

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

Training & Qualifications:

Other Skills or Knowledge: 

For more information please contact Kim Curren at kimberly.curren@calvertcountymd.gov

It's finally here!! Our beloved nature center is ready to reopen for business! We are celebrating this occasion with a Welcome Back Grand Reopening event on Sunday, September 21, from 1 to 4pm.  Volunteers are needed to help out. Volunteer duties will include assisting with set up and clean up, greeting visitors, staffing information tables, directing visitors, and assisting at activity stations. We can't wait to see you back at the Swamp!

For more information, contact Jessy Oberright, Volunteer Coordinator at jesst.oberright@calvert countymd.gov

Ages 10 and up; Children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult

Learn how to catch and tag monarch butterflies for Project Monarch Watch’s citizen science project.  We will travel to a few different parks in Southern Maryland, hoping to catch some of these amazing migrants. Meet in the gravel lot at Gatewood Preserve.

Please do NOT wear bug spray but do bring water.

For questions contact Paige Stevens, paigekathstev@gmail.com

We are looking for Calvert Steward volunteers to be ambassadors for our nature parks!

This is a great chance to show your knowledge and passion for our natural resources here in Calvert County by helping to engage new volunteers and the public at large.

Spread the word about our programs, do some simple crafts with kids, educate about our animals and talk about why you enjoy being a steward of Calvert County.

We need 2 volunteers for the table to work with our naturalists for the day. Teens are welcome to assist.

For more information or if you want to help with planning the activities, contact 

Join the Chesapeake Beach Green Team and Calvert County Parks & Recreation for this annual clean up event along and around the Chesapeake Beach Railway Trail. This is a great opportunity for individuals, families and service groups. 

Three ways to participate:

1. Clean up the footpath and surrounding areas on foot. All ages welcome.

2. Clean up the waterways and marshes by using your own boat.

3. Reserve a CCPR kayak (single or double available) and join staff cleaning up on the water. PRE-REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED to reserve kayaks. Ages 9 yrs.+, must be 12 yrs.+ to paddle alone. RESERVE KAYAKS HERE:   
https://www.calvertparks.org/event-6208558 

Clean-up supplies, work gloves and encouragement will be provided! Please dress for the weather and water conditions. Parking at the Kellam Field Parking Area, Gordon Stinnett Blvd. Chesapeake Beach. Check In station will be near the Rail Trail Entrance and boat ramp.

For more information contact: Jessy Oberright, Volunteer Coordinator jessy.oberright@calvertcountymd.gov ultiple choi

*This trip is open to any Calvert Stewards that have completed volunteer hours from Sept 2024- Aug 2025.*

Poplar Island is a 3 mile long island that is actively being restored and managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), Maryland Department of Transportation Maryland Port Administration (MDOT MPA), and many other Federal and State environmental agencies.  This island is home to many species of wildlife including Diamondback Terrapins, terns and many other species of birds.  

We will meet at Kings Landing Park and travel to Tilghman Island to go on a boat tour to Poplar Island

We will get a guided tour while traveling around the island in a small bus.  The tour staff will teach us about the history of the island, restoration process and the wildlife that call the island home.  We may have opportunities to get out to search for birds as well so be sure to bring your binoculars and camera.  Bring a packed lunch to enjoy at the nearby Back Creek Community Park. We do have a 12 person minimum that we have to meet in order for the trip to go.

As Monarch Butterflies migrate down along the western coast of the Chesapeake Bay, Point Lookout State Park is their last stop before a long journey across the open waters. The park acts as a funneling point for all the migrants. Hundreds of Monarchs can be found during migration at this park, stopping to feed on the various fall blooms such as goldenrod. 

Join us on our trip to Point Lookout State Park to catch and tag the butterflies. Training will be done on-site by Paige Stevens. This is a part of the Citizen Science project Monarch Watch.

Monarch Tagging Qualifications Required.

Tagging will take place from 10 am - 12 pm at Point Lookout State Park.

Please meet on site at Point Lookout State Park, 11175 Point Lookout Rd, Scotland, MD 20687. 

Once you arrive at the park's gates, you will have to enter the park office and let them know you are there to participate in Calvert County Natural Resources' Monarch Tagging. They will then direct you around the gate. Please park and meet by the lighthouse.

Please do NOT wear bug spray and bring water. Long pants are recommended.

For information contact Volunteer in charge: paigekathstev@gmail.com

For Volunteers 15 years old and up

Location: Battle Creek Cypress Swamp

Time/season: Surveys may be conducted April 1 - Sept 30, from park open time until 1.5 hours before park close time

Battle Creek Cypress Swamp Hours: 

Labor Day through Memorial Day

 Memorial Day through Labor Day

Naturalist in charge:  Gene Groshon

For more information Contact: Gene Groshon, Gene.Groshon@calvertcountymd.gov (preferred) or 410-535-5327 

Each Prothonotary Warbler (PROW) that we capture at Battle Creek is fitted with a unique combination of bands on its legs. Every bird receives a silver aluminum band on it’s lower right leg; this band has a tiny number on it that corresponds to a national database. The other bands seen on our banded PROWs are plastic color bands that are unique to each individual bird. This allows staff, volunteers and visitors to be able to identify individual birds just using their binoculars or camera!  Using the data we collect from the resighting of color banded birds we will have a better understanding of their territory size, lifespans, breeding activity, and nest site fidelity. We need citizen scientists (like you) to report any banded birds that they see. 

Conducting your survey

Recording data

There are several ways to record data

*New for 2025* We will now be collecting data using a new application created by our GIS department which can be found here!  In addition to submitting data through the application please also send data directly to Gene by one of the below methods.  This application is brand new so we are still testing it out and hope it will make it easier for visitors to the park to report data.

Data should be emailed to Gene.groshon@calvertcountymd.gov 

Reminders:

Qualifications Required: Member of the Calvert Nature Society Board of Directors

At least one Society Board member attends the monthly meeting.  If you are a non-board member and interested in representing the Society, please let us know!

The PRAB is a Board of County Commissioner committee that was established to assist the BOCC and the Department of Parks & Recreation to achieve the goals of establishing services which meet community needs. The Society has an ex officio position on PRAB and appoints their representative.

Meetings are open to the public, so anyone can attend even outside of the capacity of a volunteer or member of the Society board.

https://www.calvertcountymd.gov/665/Parks-and-Recreation-Advisory-Board

We are looking for Calvert Steward volunteers to be ambassadors for our nature parks!

This is a great chance to show your knowledge and passion for our natural resources here in Calvert County by helping to engage new volunteers and the public at large.

Spread the word about our programs, do some simple crafts with kids, educate about our animals and talk about why you enjoy being a steward of Calvert County. Assistance for set up is also needed.

We will have three shifts to choose from.

Teens are welcome to assist. 

For more information or if you want to help with planning the activities, contact Karyn Molines karyn.molines@calvertcountymd.gov

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

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

A maximum number of four volunteers will be needed to help with the upkeep of Kings Landing Park's trail system. Trail monitors help keep trails clear with foot traffic, as well as manually removing small debris & alerting staff of larger maintenance needs.

Duties will include: 

-Walking the trails of the park

-Trimming

-Removing sticks and other debris from trails

-Reporting hazards such as downed trees too large or dangerous for volunteers to handle

Schedule: 

Once a month, or more frequently as desired by volunteers. 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: 

Rubber gloves provided by park staff. Hand tools may be provided by staff, however heavy duty gloves must be brought by the volunteer. Volunteers should also provide their own water bottles and trail snacks.

Special Skills:

Hiking the trails is a major portion of this opportunity in both rough and mild terrain. No trail maintenance is expected under inclement weather conditions. Continuous bending may be needed for debris removal. Lifting may also be required of larger fallen limbs that a volunteer feels they can remove on their own.

Work also includes:

Possible exposure to poison ivy, ticks, mosquitoes, and flies.

For more information contact Jenny Yoder at 410-535-2661 or Jennifer.Yoder@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

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

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

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.

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

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

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.

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

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)

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

Scheduling & Reporting Hours: Volunteers are asked to spend time counting birds within assigned regions and report the data to the coordinator at the end of the day. Count areas are assigned by the coordinator. There is usually a post count gathering the evening of the count to tally the results.  

Examples of Bird Surveys include:

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

Spring Warbler Id Charts. From Cornell Lab

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