Gardener Volunteer

FROM: https://www.volunteer.gov/s/volunteer-opportunity/a09SJ00000Ff90I

ADDRESS: 640 South Canal Street  Natchez, Mississippi, 39120

DATES: 2025-09-08

DEPT: National Park Service

JOB DESCRIPTION:

Position Overview

Are you a nature enthusiast who loves digging in the dirt and nurturing plants? Join us as a Gardener and help cultivate the historic gardens and landscaped areas of Natchez National Historical Park while making a meaningful contribution to the preservation of this nationally significant site. Local volunteers are welcome and encouraged to join our team.

Dates & Commitment

Volunteers may serve for any length of time based on availability. Those wishing to receive an RV site must commit to a minimum of three months and a maximum of six months. Local volunteers are welcome with a minimum of two days per month. Exact start and end dates are flexible.

• Individuals: 32 hours per week if in RV site program
• Couples: 24 hours per person per week if in RV site program
• Note: Couples wishing to apply should submit separate applications for each person.

Uniform Requirements

• Provided by Park: Volunteer shirt(s), hat, jacket/s
• Provided by Volunteer: Pants, belt, and closed-toe shoes

Duties & Responsibilities

As a Gardener Volunteer, you will:

• Weeding & Pruning – Remove weeds, dead plants, and overgrowth to keep gardens healthy and vibrant
• Plant Care – Water, trim, and maintain existing plants; plant new native species to promote biodiversity
• Landscaping – Improve soil and drainage conditions for plant health
• Enhance Visitor Experience – Maintain clear and attractive signage; report any garden or facility issues to supervisor
• Protect Cultural Resources – Assist in protecting historic garden features and follow cultural resource preservation guidelines
• This role typically involves standing, walking, bending, kneeling, or seated tasks, with occasional lifting of up to 50 lbs. Work is outdoors in varying weather conditions using basic hand tools. Volunteers will receive safety orientation and training before starting work and must follow all park safety protocols.

Requirements for Volunteers

• Be a U.S. citizen and provide a permanent mailing address
• Pass a background check (initiated after conditional selection) and possess a valid state driver’s license
• Provide a professional reference to verify experience
• Provide your own personal camping accommodations if staying in the RV site
• Have a positive and helpful attitude
• Be able to work safely and follow all park safety protocols
• Represent the National Park Service to the public in a respectful manner
• Reasonable accommodations may be made for qualified individuals with disabilities to perform essential volunteer duties

Why Volunteer?

• Learn & Grow – Gain hands-on experience with native and historic plants and horticultural techniques
• Stay Active – Enjoy outdoor physical activity while improving the park’s historic gardens
• Make a Difference – Help preserve a nationally significant historic landscape for visitors to enjoy

Housing Information

• RV Site: On-site pad with water, sewer, and electric hookups
• Requirement: Minimum of three months and maximum of six months commitment for RV site use

Tagged as: Volunteer