Volunteer
Job Description
Palmer Hay Flats State Game Refuge (2 host positions)
This 28,800 acre state wildlife refuge protects a variety of wildlife habitat including coastal and freshwater wetlands, tidal sloughs and mudflats, lakes and streams, as well as upland birch forests in upper Cook Inlet. The refuge is located near the community of Wasilla about 25 miles northeast of Anchorage. During spring, tens-of-thousands of migrating ducks, geese, swans, and shorebirds stop in the refuge during their migration to northern nesting grounds. Many species of waterbirds remain in the refuge for the summer to nest and raise their young. Over 160 species of birds have been documented in the refuge. Moose, black bears, coyotes, red fox, beaver, muskrats, eagles, and salmon are common in the refuge. Popular activities include sport fishing, canoeing, bird watching, bird dog (retriever) training, waterfowl hunting, and hiking. These host positions are stationed at two popular access points: Cottonwood Creek (on the west edge of the refuge) and Reflections Lake (on the east edge of the refuge off the Glenn Highway National Scenic Byway).
Special Projects: Overall supervision of visitor use at refuge access points. Greet visitors in an informal setting, provide information and answer questions, pick up litter, empty trash, light cleaning and restocking of restrooms, and provide general security.
Amenities: An RV/camper parking site and public vault toilets are available. There are no onsite utilities available and RV or trailer (supplied by volunteer) must be self-contained. Subsistence reimbursement (with receipts) up to $500/month, electrical generator, cooking and heating fuel, and cell phone are provided. All amenities are available in Wasilla (7 miles from Cottonwood Creek, 11 miles from Reflections Lake).
Season: Cottonwood Creek: July through August; Reflections Lake: June through August.
Contact: Joe Meehan
Alaska Department of Fish and Game
333 Raspberry Road
Anchorage, AK 99518
phone: (907) 267-2281
fax: (907) 267-2344
email: joe.meehan@alaska.gov
website: http://www.adfg.alaska.gov (follow links for “Refuges and Sanctuaries”).